Benjamin-Joseph Steens

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Benjamin-Joseph Steens was born in Bonheiden (Belgium).

After his secondary education he studied musicology at Leuven Catholic University and at Sorbonne Paris-IV, where he obtained his master's degree with distinction. At the same time he gained First Prizes at Lemmens Institute in Leuven and at Orléans National Music School under François-Henri Houbart's supervision. In 1995 he obtained his Regional First Prize with a commendation of the jury.

In 1999 he obtained his basso continuo Prize at the Paris 'Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse' (CNSM), and in 2000 he was awarded, with unanimity and honour, the 'Diplôme Supérieur de Formation d'Orgue' in the class of Michel Bouvard and Olivier Latry.

He also specialized in harpsichord with Pierre Hantai (CNSM, Paris), Jos Van Immerseel (Antwerp) and Olivier Baumont (CNSM, Paris), under whose supervision he obtained, with the highest distinction, the higher Diploma for Harpsichord in June 2003.

In October 2000 Benjamin-Joseph Steens was appointed, with unanimity, as the first organ-holder of the instrument newly built by Cattiaux for Saint-Remi's Basilica in Rheims.

In February 2002 he obtained his certificate of Ancient Music Professor.

In April 2003 Benjamin-Joseph was appointed basso continuo Professor at the Rheims National Regional Higher Music and Dance School. He also teaches organ and harpsichord in Paris and Vertus (using an organ built by Bernard Aubertin) and is a soloist both at home and abroad.

He is also active as a basso continuo player.

After his appointment in Rheims he has released several CDs.