Benjamin Cruz
Cajual
Pleasant Prairie,WI
5
years of professional experience
Dynamic musician with a proven ability to engage diverse audiences through a range of high-energy and intimate performances. Skilled in effective communication and fostering emotional connections, ensuring memorable musical experiences on stage and in the lesson rooms.
Work History
Professional Musician
2 Months- Developed engaging musical programs tailored for diverse age groups.
- Perform high-energy shows twice daily (mornings and afternoons) to over 1,800 campers and staff members, including call and response, sing-alongs, and dances.
- Play at Friday cookouts at camp; 2 hours of continuous music for the campers to enjoy the outdoors.
- Created original compositions to enhance the camp's thematic experiences.
- Facilitated group lessons, fostering teamwork and communication among campers.
- Mentored junior musicians, providing guidance on technique and performance skills.
Private Guitar Teacher
1 Year 3 Months- Educated students on music theory, technique, and performance skills to enhance overall musicianship.
- Developed customized lesson plans tailored to individual student needs and learning styles.
- Fostered a supportive learning environment encouraging student creativity and motivation.
- Mentored aspiring guitarists through structured practice routines and constructive feedback sessions.
- Evaluated student progress regularly, adapting instructional methods to ensure consistent improvement.
- Collaborated with parents to set educational goals and address specific challenges in learning guitar.
- Adapted teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles, ensuring all students had an equal opportunity for success.
Band Leader
5 Years- Directed band rehearsals, ensuring cohesive sound and effective collaboration among musicians.
- Developed set lists tailored to audience preferences, enhancing overall concert experiences.
- Coordinated performance schedules, optimizing availability and engagement of band members.
- Oversaw equipment management, ensuring readiness and maintenance for live performances.
- Led strategic planning sessions to align band goals with artistic vision and market trends.
- Cultivated relationships with venues and event organizers to secure performance opportunities.
- Enhanced audience engagement by incorporating diverse music genres and styles into performances.
- Maintained open communication channels with venue staff to ensure smooth operations during performances.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Music
High School Diploma
Skills
Music accompanists
Dynamic stage presence
Impressive improvisational skills
Music accompaniment
Expressive interpretation
Maintaining instrument care
Collaborative teamwork
Communication techniques
Feedback delivery
Networking within industry
Original composition creation
Audience connection
Accomplishments
- Guitarist with the UW-Parkside Jazz Ensemble and Contemporary Commercial Music Ensemble.
- Played several festival gigs in the Kenosha area over several years including Celebrate America, Cheezapalooza, Holy Rosary Festival, Taste of Wisconsin, and Italian Festival.
Timeline
Professional Musician
Banner Day Camp
06.2026 - CurrentRead More
Private Guitar Teacher
Self-employeed
05.2025 - CurrentRead More
Band Leader
Cajual
08.2021 - CurrentRead More
University of Wisconsin, Parkside
Bachelor of Arts from Music
Read More
Barrington High School
High School Diploma
Read More