Ben Rosten

Ben Rosten is known for melding the discipline of classical training with the spontaneity of jazz improvisation. His formative years in music were enriched by his studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music—part of the University of Sydney’s vibrant music community. This dual academic foundation helped shape his innovative approach, allowing him to explore reharmonisations, intricate voice leadings, and dynamic rhythmic interpretations in his improvisations, with a strong technical prowess and theoretical knowledge. He performed Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin for the Sutherland Shire Council's Mayoral Ball in 1994, and performed his own compostion at the composer's day finals held at the Sydney Opera House, December 1995. He played piano in the University of Sydney's Conservatorium Big Band under the leadership of Dick Montz in 1996-1997 as part of his performance degree. He was awarded a James Morrison Jazz Scholarship Finalist in 1996-97. Ben enjoys players like Art Tatum.