I am a Chicago-based professional cellist with over 15 years of experience providing high-quality live music for a wide range of events including corporate functions, private parties, galas, memorial services, and weddings.
With a Master’s degree in Cello Performance from Indiana University, I bring a high level of artistry and technical skill to every performance. My repertoire is intentionally diverse, spanning from timeless classical masterpieces to contemporary pop and jazz arrangements, ensuring the music perfectly complements the unique atmosphere of your event.
Whether you would like me to create a set-list or have requests, let me know how I can best serve your needs!
1 review
Melissa B.
June 23, 2024I asked Mr Bauer to play at our daughter’s baptism luncheon a few weeks ago. His music provided a captivating atmosphere that just filled the room. He prepared a carefully chosen set by Bach to suit the occasion, showcasing musical styles from classical masterpieces, each piece delivered beautifully!
Moreover, his professionalism and demeanor added an extra layer of sophistication to the event. I communicated with him via this platform and responded quickly. He reached out via text to confirm his arrival. Overall, he was punctual, well-prepared, dressed appropriately for the occasion, and interacted warmly with my husband and I, enhancing the overall ambiance of the event.
Hired as: Cellist
Price range: ~$100/hr (variable depending on client needs)
Languages: English
Gig length: 45 - 300 minutes
I bring a high standard of musicianship and professionalism to every performance, and am well-versed in both classical and pop music. For a sample of my playing, please give my audio samples a listen at the following link: (link hidden)
Ben Bauer is a versatile freelance cellist based in Chicago with over 15 years of public performance experience. A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Ben began his musical journey at the age of eight and has since developed a career that spans orchestral performance, chamber music, and dedicated pedagogy.
Ben is an active member of the Chicago musical community, performing regularly as part of a local string quartet. He's performed at venues such as the Grainger Ballroom at Chicago Symphony Center, Pianoforte, and Lakeshore East Park. He's performed as a cellist in a variety of professional orchestras, including Orchestra Iowa, Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Beloit-Janesville Symphony Orchestra, and the Madison Savoyards. During his academic tenure, he distinguished himself as a proponent of contemporary music, premiering several new works for the cello. His technical foundation is supported by participation in masterclasses with world-renowned cellists and pedagogues, including Zuill Bailey, Clive Greensmith, and Steven Doane.
As a passionate educator, Ben has served as a faculty member for the Merit School of Music, where he taught private lessons and group classes through the Merit Music in Communities program. He is dedicated to helping prospective students find their own voice on the instrument, drawing from his rigorous training at the UW-Madison Mead Witter School of Music (Bachelor of Music, 2019) and the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music (Master of Music, 2022).
In addition to his musical pursuits, Ben remains committed to his community as a volunteer for PAWS Chicago and enjoys spending time at home with his two cats. He's also an active member of the Chicago Symphony Overture Council, serving as Communications Chair. Whether performing in a formal recital hall, providing elegant music for a private event, or mentoring the next generation of cellists, Ben brings a depth of experience and a collaborative spirit to every project.
As long as I have somewhere to sit, I'm staying dry, and am performing in temperatures between 55 and 90 degrees, I can set up anywhere!
Sunday
Religious Celebration
1:00pm - 2:00pm
•
Chicago, IL
My set list includes (but is by no means limited to):
CLASSICAL:
*J.S. Bach: Suites for Solo Cello Numbers 1 (G Major) (includes the "Bach Prelude"), 2 (D minor), 3 (C Major), 4 (E-flat Major)
*Pachelbel: Canon in D Major
*Saint-Saens: The Swan
POP:
*Christina Perri: A Thousand Years
*Elvis Presley: I Can't Help Falling Love
*Daniel Caesar: Best Part
*The Beatles: Here Comes the Sun
Chair
Cellist
