Bass Lessons in Branford, CT

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I initially have a student work on a series of simple fingering exercises. This gets the student familiar with the feel of the instrument and helps to reinforce how the left and right hands work together when performing. Another benefit is that it helps the student to build speed/dexterity when playing. When these exercises/techniques have been mastered I then introduce the student to concepts such as notes, scales, intervals, basic chord structure, etc. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

Depending on the students interest and needs I will typically introduce my beginner students with some scales and etudes from Simandl's 30 etudes book. As well Simandl Book one is a wonderful book to introduce the positions on the bass and has many helpful exercises inside. I'm a believer in the Simandl method and the etudes in particular are a wonderful way to learn the one and outs of especially orchestral bass playing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Often I do use Mel Bay or Hal Leonard books to get a student started reading, but try to shift to popular music as soon as possible to keep the repertoire interesting and relevant for the student, as well has their families and peers. As the student develops, students will learn to expand on these ideas with theory based improvisation to "make the song their own." For More Advanced students, we can work from the Real or Fake Books, or the Ireel App to increase improvisational experience and confidence. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I find it is incredibly important to spend the time early on making sure your technique and form is sound and strong. This will start you off with a solid foundation that will help you play what ever musical styles you wish. I like to start students off with simple scales and melodies that will build up your dexterity, muscle memory and general ability to play the instrument. Once you can work your way around the instrument you can start learning more lessons about reading music, ear training and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele

Over the past 40 years, I have been involved with several different “R&B” bands and played various college circuits, also playing in local clubs and many private parties. I have had a wonderful opportunity to meet and play with many professional musicians in my career. My approach to teaching is to customize lessons based upon the individuals’ age, current skill level, and personal goals. Teaching them how to read music, phrase their sound and control the dynamics to produce a cohesive piece of music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar

I have found, especially for beginner and younger students (I.E. friends and family members I have taught), it is best to first see where they are in ability to play the instrument. From there, we work on correcting bad habits that develop from being self taught, things such as poor picking technique, finger placement, hand placement, minimal understanding of rhythm and basic theory concepts. Then we discuss what the student would like to learn, and after a solid foundation of basic concepts has been developed, I can create more personalized lessons from there! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

Since 1996 I have been solely committed to a career in teaching and performing professionally. My Father was an amateur jazz pianist, my Grandmother, a professional opera singer prior to marriage. My earliest memories came with a soundtrack: my Dads piano playing. I studied privately both on piano (early) and guitar (later), starting somewhere in my fifth year. I always took advantage of musical opportunities afforded me at school whenever appropriate, whether that was a school musical, talent show, battle of the bands, jazz band or music elective. Read More