Student Spotlight: Benji Berlin
February 19th, 2025
"I love how fun and positive my lessons are. I always leave feeling really motivated to do more. Honestly my cello lessons with Miss Bianca are a highlight of my week."
Fourteen-year-old Benji Berlin has been studying cello at the Music Institute of Chicago for two and a half years with his music teacher, Bianca d’Avila do Prado. Now in eighth grade at Wilmette Junior High School, he has developed a deep appreciation for music and the joy of learning his instrument.
Benji was inspired to try the cello by his fourth-grade teacher, who played and shared it with the class. "I love the beautiful, full sound of the cello," he says. That inspiration grew into regular lessons, where he enjoys expressing himself through his playing. "It makes me feel really good to put emotion and character into what I'm playing."
His lessons with Bianca are a highlight of his week. "I always leave feeling really motivated to do more," he says. One of his favorite moments was playing Christmas carols as a duet with his teacher, swapping parts and hearing different variations of familiar tunes. Benji shares that his proudest musical achievement was being accepted into the ILMEA orchestra this year, especially after a challenging audition that put his skills to the test. Outside of music, Benji is involved in Science Olympiad, enjoys board games, and spends time reading and hanging out with friends.
Benji’s mom, Kate, recognized his interest early on. A violinist herself through high school, she knew that private lessons would help him develop strong technique. “I knew that one-on-one lessons would really help him advance more quickly. I also wanted to make sure his technique was on track so he wouldn't develop bad habits."
"I'm so impressed by his technical skills and sight-reading, but most importantly, his enjoyment of playing. It's so great to see." She’s especially proud of his commitment and growing confidence.
Benji’s journey with the cello has also created a new way for them to spend time together. "Sometimes I dust off my violin and we play together, which is so gratifying. I'm very grateful for all the support from Bianca. We couldn't have found a better teacher."
Music has become a bigger part of Benji’s family, too—his younger sister recently decided to start learning the cello, inspired by his playing. What started as a simple interest has grown into something much more: a shared experience that connects them.
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