Ben Ferris is a Bassist, Composer and Educator from Madison, WI. A student of NEA Jazz Master Richard Davis, he graduated with a music-education degree from UW-Madison where he is currently pursing a masters in String Performance. His group the Ben Ferris Quintet released their debut album, “Home” in 2016 featuring all original compositions by Ben and members of the ensemble. He also leads the Ben Ferris Octet and is a founding member of the contemporary ensemble Mr Chair. As a sideman Ben performs with Darren Sterud, Nuggernaut, the Jon Hoel Trio, Gabe Burdulis Band, as well as a number of performances in the classical, jazz, rock and contemporary music scenes. As an educator, Ben teaches a studio of private bass students, and has taught K-12 general music, songwriting, strings and jazz ensembles in public schools for seven years.