Owner/Instructor Ben Diaz
M.M. Piano Pedagogy, Michigan State University
B.M. Piano Performance, Michigan State University
Ben Diaz was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan. He received his Bachelor’s of Music (2001) and Master’s of Music (2004) degrees from Michigan State University. He is married to his wonderful wife Kim and have three beautiful daughters, Makana, Mariah and Malaya, and twin boys, Josiah and Cruz.
Ben began taking traditional piano lessons at the age of seven and continued through high school. Although he initially showed little interest and potential, he became inspired by listening to his sisters practice the piano at night and wanted to create the same sounds they did. Eventually Ben won, placed or qualified in local, state, national, and international piano competitions and participated in well-respected camps and seminars.
During his college years, Ben realized that in order to find work he had to become a well-rounded musician, not just a classical pianist. He began playing at weddings, churches and various functions, and accompanied different bands and choirs to learn improvisation techniques and musical styles. He began teaching private students through his own studio and the Community Music School at MSU, and taught group class piano for music majors as a graduate assistant at MSU.
The Diaz School of Piano was established in 2005 to be a refreshing alternative to traditional piano instruction at a more affordable price. To date, over 500 students have attended workshops, enrolled in classes, or participated in lessons at the Diaz School of Piano. Ben intends to make the experience of learning to play the piano rewarding, social, and fun as he teaches students to develop the necessary skills and principles to become pianists for a lifetime.
