Björn Wennås
Teaching Philosophy
Having taught the guitar for many years, I have come to realize what works in the teacher/student relationship and how to individualize my approach for each student. I want to get my students excited about the guitar and about music in general. I aim to have them discover the beauty of the sound, the range of tone and expression the instrument is capable of, while also focusing on technique and reading. The guitar is tremendously versatile, but also challenging and requires both practice and often employing multiple approaches before a student begins to gain true familiarity with the instrument. In teaching students of all ages and backgrounds, I recognize the importance of finding the music and style that resonates with each student, and inspires each to achieve his or her goals.
Biography
Björn Wennås is a versatile guitarist, composer, and educator whose musical journey spans continents and genres. Originally from Sweden, Björn moved to the United States in 1999, bringing with him a rich musical background and a passion for teaching.
Björn holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Musicology and Anthropology from Uppsala University, a Diploma in Music from Berklee College of Music, and a Masters of Music from Longy School of Music. His comprehensive education forms the foundation of his multifaceted approach to music and teaching.
As an educator, Björn has extensive experience working with students of all ages and skill levels. He teaches private guitar lessons, songwriting classes, and ensemble coaching across various genres.
Björn’s performance career began at age 12 with the Flamenco group Los Dos Jovenes. Currently, he performs with Zafarán, a pan-Mediterranean project, and Ishna, a contemporary Irish ensemble. He is the former MD and guitarist of the award-winning group Newpoli.
His versatility is evident in his involvement with various musical styles, from jazz and big bands to classical guitar. Björn is also proficient in the chitarra battente, a traditional ten-string instrument from southern Italy.
Björn’s talents have earned him numerous accolades, including nominations for the Just Plain Folk’s Award, the International Massimo Urbani Award, and wins in the Independent Music Award and the Iguana Award. He has been recognized as an Official Showcase Artist at the International Folk Alliance and a Library of Congress Artist.
As both a performer and educator, Björn Wennås brings a unique blend of international experience, technical skill, and creative vision to his work at Brookline Music School.
Degrees
B.A. Uppsala University, Sweden
Diploma in Professional Music, Berklee
M.M., Longy School of Music