Recommendations
Sean Curran, choreographer and company leader.
Professional work
It is a pleasure to provide this letter of recommendation for musician and educator Tigger Benford. I have worked with Tigger over many decades, both as a creative collaborator and a fellow performer. In my capacity as Artistic Director of the NYC-based contemporary dance ensemble Seán Curran Company, I have commissioned Tigger to compose new music as well as created dances to his existing compositions. We have also worked as collaborators on several dance-music projects and have performed together in body percussion works that he has developed at The New Victory Theater, The Joyce Theater, Brooklyn Academy of Music, The Bates Dance Festival and on national and international tours.
During my tenure from 2014-2023 as Chair of the Department of Dance in the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, I invited Tigger to teach guest artist workshops in Music for Dance and in Body Percussion with his partner Martha Partridge. A virtuosic multi-instrumentalist and inventive improviser, he also served as an accompanist for many years for departmental dance classes taught by numerous faculty members. Our department was incredibly fortunate to work with a colleague who was so articulate, talented, and committed to supporting students grow as artists and individuals.
Tigger excels at all he does and his love of teaching is evident. In his wide-ranging workshop and class offerings, Tigger fosters a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for participants of all abilities, ages, and skill levels. He has taught across the country: in highly selective conservatory and university training programs with professional-level musicians and dancers, as well as in community settings, with participants including school children and retired adults. Participants are encouraged to explore new ideas, generate unique rhythmic patterns, and work together as collaborators and creators. In all instances, Tigger’s strong communication skills, infectious energy, and deep knowledge uplift the experience, sharing the joy of music.
Tigger Benford has my full endorsement. Please reach out with any questions.
Sincerely,
Seán Curran
"We recently had the pleasure of hosting a body percussion class at Revelle, and it was an absolute joy for our community. From the very beginning, the instructors created a welcoming, encouraging atmosphere that immediately put our residents at ease.
I’ll admit, we weren’t entirely sure how a body percussion class would work with our senior living residents—but we were delighted to be proven wrong! Not only were they able to fully participate, they truly loved it. The instructors presented the patterns and movements in a way that was accessible, engaging, and fun. Our residents enthusiastically dove in, supported one another, and took great pride in learning and performing the sequences.
One of the best parts of the afternoon was how much our residents impressed us. They truly wowed us during the Queen classic “We Will Rock You,” bringing wonderful energy and rhythm to the room. They especially enjoyed the opportunity to create their own duets—a wonderful combination of creativity, teamwork, and laughter.
The session was thoughtfully structured and perfectly paced for our community. It was clear how much Tigger and Martha appreciated our residents, and that feeling was mutual.
Thank you for bringing such a unique, interactive, and uplifting experience to Revelle. Our residents are still talking about it!"
Denise M.
Revelle of Bucks County Senior Living Community
Denise McNab, Activities Director, Revelle at Bucks County
Rhythm & Body Percussion
Collette Martino, Community Life Director, Pine Run Village, Doylestown PA
Listening to the World.
I highly recommend Tig Benford’s Listening to the World Workshop, it’s a rare chance to slow down and connect with the rhythms of daily life. Tig kept the villagers focused with a unique array of sounds by using a variety of instruments to heighten the experience. We also spent some time outside which provided manmade as well as more natural sounds. Participants were gently encouraged to share their experiences. A most enjoyable session which felt like a blend of education and meditation.