Benjamin Ring is a distinguished drummer, percussionist, and composer with roots in Piedmont, California, now making waves in the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles.

Benjamin's musical journey began at the age of 8 in orchestral percussion, leading him to become one of the youngest players in the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra at 12. Those early years were marked by performances in prestigious concert halls across Europe, including the Berlin Philharmonie and the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, as well as participation in other notable Bay Area youth orchestras.

By age 11, Benjamin had also become interested in jazz percussion, joining Oaktown Jazz and the Berkeley Jazzschool's Advanced Middle School Jazz Ensemble. His high school years led to membership in the Berkeley Jazzschool’s Studio Band and the SFJAZZ High School All Stars, where he honed his skills among some of the Bay Area's finest young musicians. High school also brought recognition and awards, including the Outstanding Soloist Award from the Monterey Jazz Festival’s Next Generation program and the SFJAZZ Education Award and Scholarship.

Benjamin's academic pursuits led him to the University of Southern California, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Music, studying under drum legends Peter Erskine, Ndugu Chancler, and Will Kennedy, and delving into theory and composition with luminaries such as Vince Mendoza, Morten Lauridsen and Patrice Rushen. His journey continued at the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA, a full scholarship master's program, where he was selected by competitive audition for the 8-piece ensemble by jazz icons including Herbie Hancock and Ambrose Akinmusire.

An accomplished composer, Benjamin penned his first percussion ensemble composition, "Groove," at age 15, and has since created a diverse portfolio of original music ranging from string quartets to jazz charts and pop/electronic songs. His 2022 composition "Mental Gymnastics" was celebrated as a winner of the Bridges Composition Competition, premiering at the Ravinia Festival.

Benjamin's performance career is on the rise, having already shared the stage with jazz greats like David Binney, Billy Childs, and Herbie Hancock, appearing at venues from Jazz at Lincoln Center to the Monterey Jazz Festival. His upcoming debut album, "With Every Step," will be released on the Fresh Sound New Talent label and promises to be a significant addition to the jazz landscape.

Residing in Los Angeles, Benjamin continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances and innovative compositions, solidifying his position as an up-and-coming figure in contemporary jazz. His dedication to his craft, combined with a rich educational background and diverse range of musical experiences, makes Benjamin Ring someone to watch in the music industry.

https://www.benjaminring.com/