Benjamin Shannon is making a serious indent into the Australian music scene as a percussionist, educator and composer. Hailing from Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast, Ben began lessons under the guidance of Luke Williams (Dead Letter Circus) at age 10.

Ben has studied with world renowned percussionists Mark Guiliana, Dave Elitch,  Jeff Friedl, Steve Judd, Joseph Arrington, Thomas Pridgen, Tim Firth, Andrew Gander, Simon Barker, John Parker and Paul Hudson.

Ben has performed alongside artists The Contortionist, sleepmakeswaves, Yitzhak Yedid, Katatonia, Caligula's Horse, Leprous, COG, Scott Tinkler, Robin Eubanks, James Morrison, The Black Sorrows, Troy Cassar-Daley, Tim Ruiz, Art Fristoe and Woody Witt to summarise an extensive list. Ben's last few years as a performer have been prolific, accruing over 500+ gigs in the last five years alone across all genres. 

His current projects include: Kodiak Empire, Milton Man Gogh, Brisbane Conduction Orchestra, SHAMIN, Found in Trees, Dropbear Lodge, Safety Club, Soul Mechanics, Valtozash Bigband, Cowbird, Sophie Min Orchestra, Martin Kay’s Forage, Strangely Enough, JUNE CARTEL, The Douldie Men, Ben Shannon Trio, James McIntyre Trio. 

Teaching

Ben currently teaches Drums/Percussion/Theory/Composition privately out of his studio and in schools around Brisbane.

Recording

Ben has recorded with a multitude of artists across a range of genres. He's available for any recording from jazz to pop to heavy metal. 

Playing

Ben gigs various times a week throughout South East Queensland in original and freelance settings. 

Ben is extremely honoured to have signed a publishing deal with Double Drummer. Double Drummer is run by ex Albert Music/BMG Chief Executive Officer Tim Prescott whose artist alumni includes AC/DC, Beyonce, Powderfinger, John Mayer and Bruce Springsteen to summarise an extensive list.

Ben also works for Sydney based Record Label/Booker Art As Catharsis  Art As Catharsis, to help with bookings and administration for the Brisbane side of things. His other roles include meeting with potential clients, discussing and contributing to general label plans,  online exposure and promotion.

His approach to music is a holistic process that is clearly representative of everything he stands for. He wishes to share his musical aspirations with the world through his journey.