ORIGINS
Growing up, I was always encouraged to play music. I got my first ukulele after getting chicken pox as a child as a gift to make me feel better. After loving playing something that only loosely resembled music, I started begging my mum to buy me my first 6 stringed guitar. After years of begging, one christmas I finally got my first classical guitar.
I started playing the classical guitar when I was 7 years old, at first with school and then with a private instructor who helped me push myself in the Melbourne Guitar Festival Junior Competition, where I got 3rd place - I was so excited I put the 50 dollar cheque in such a safe spot I never found it again.
"It is absolutely vital to your lasting connection with music to entertain every musical avenue which speaks to you"
— BENTE HANSEN
THE MUSIC
Moving around a lot as a young adult, guitar has really shaped who I am. Wherever I was in the world, I could rely on the same music speaking to me and those around me. Around this time, I started to discover music production, which led me to record my own pop songs. Although somewhat primitive in production style, an early familiarisation with these production techniques allowed me to grow into making my own EDM beats later on.
Although modern music performance of both my own works and cover songs is still a very prominent part of my life, the focus has shifted towards a more focused study of the world of classical guitar. The intricacies and characters of classical music, especially in that of an instrument as intimate as the guitar, is both very touching and entertaining. I recently competed at the 2025 Adelaide International Classical Guitar Competition, reaching the semi-finals.
TEACHING
Although I specialise in classical music, I have years of experience with pop, rock, punk and jazz music. While I do teach modern guitar, I do try and work in pieces of classical guitar technique which I believe are essential to a comfortable and effortless playing style. I also offer instruments for loan for a small surcharge on lesson costs to allow people to try it out before committing to an instrument.
Currently I operate out of The Plucked String in Southbank, although if no times are available which work with you, do not hesitate to contact me to figure out an alternative arrangement.
OFF STAGE
Aside from my musical endeavors, I play competitive rugby and surfboat row at a national level. The constant commitment this takes gives me firsthand insight into the balance it takes to study the guitar alongside other commitments, such as school, work or other hobbies.