Ben Boddy

6 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

PianoIntermediate
BassAdvanced
VoiceIntermediate
GuitarAdvanced
SongwritingAdvanced
ProductionAdvanced
Upright BassAdvanced

GENRES

CCMClassicalJazzPopRock

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

As a mentor at ROOTS Academy, my mission is to inspire musicians to fall in love with their instruments, strive for excellence, and have so much fun, by teaching them how to mix technical abilities with their own identity and creativity. I strive to create an environment where students feel connected to music that THEY enjoy while being ambitious and open to learn the things that will make them better.

Ben Boddy is a dynamic and versatile music mentor who brings both experience and passion to ROOTS Academy. Growing up in a musical family, Ben was surrounded by the sounds of his parents, both singers and multi-instrumentalists. This environment nurtured his love for music early on and set him on a lifelong path of creativity and teaching.
At just seven years old, Ben picked up the guitar after watching his father play and sing. His early musical journey included church music, orchestra, jazz band, and musical theater, giving him a wide-ranging musical foundation. The trust and encouragement he received as a young musician — especially while playing in his youth group — helped build the confidence and determination that still shape his career today.
Ben’s teaching approach blends structure with creativity. He emphasizes the importance of music theory and sight-reading while keeping lessons engaging and enjoyable. Students are encouraged to explore songwriting and improvisation, making each lesson interactive and personalized. Ben also stresses the importance of preparation and discipline — values he developed through his own musical experiences — and helps students apply them both in music and in life.
Outside the lesson room, Ben is an active performer and producer. He tours with various artists, primarily in CCM and pop, and writes and produces music in his home studio. Staying involved in the industry keeps him inspired and allows him to bring real-world insights into his teaching.
Ben finds the greatest reward in watching students grow in confidence, creativity, and musical identity.

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

Emily Lindsey – Music Director
Josh Ashley – Music Program Manager
Marta Palombo – Music Program Coordinator
Kinsey Overdeer – Customer Experience Lead

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator