Bass Lessons in Brush Park, MI

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I stress the importance of reading music from the get go. I do understand however that some (adults) only want to learn to play some songs for their own personal gain, and not have to mess around with note reading. (Guitar is an instrument that can be played by ear, and to some degrees at a high level.) To that I do not require any books. I'll always reiterate the importance of reading..."Just think how good Eddie Van Halen would have been had he been able to read music!" For Children: Mel Bay Children Guitar Method 1 (Blue Turquoise cover) For beginners steel string and jazz: Hal Leonard Guitar method book 1 (Black and Orange cover) For Classical: Foundations in Classical guitar by Brian and Mary Lou Roberts I ALWAYS strive for the student to become familiar with performing and playing with others. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching methods are based on what interests the student. For beginning students, I begin my lessons with the basics of the instrument and use beginning method books for basic techniques. In addition, I choose some basic popular songs to give them an excitement for what they are learning. For students who have a bit more familiarity with the instrument, I tailor my lessons to the needs of the student. Read More

Instruments: Voice Bass Guitar Double Bass

For beginners I like to start with the basics of how the voice works and the proper techniques to use it. We always spend time at the end singing something they want to sing, it's important to not feel pressured into music. We will build a repertoire of songs the student is connected to and work towards a set list for a showcase. My more advanced students, I enjoy pushing them in ways that don't seem to make sense but when they feel the change in their voice they understand. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I love seeing my students gain passion and find success when they learn a riff or a chord, because I know how I felt when I did it. It inspires you to learn more. I like to use the method of telling them something they did fantastic, something they could work on and end on something they really did awesome on. I want to know what inspires the student and what they want to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer

Every student is different.  Music Theory, various styles and forms and performance are all important and part of the main focus.  I also like them to learn songs and styles that they enjoy. It's important for them to pick up their instrument every day, develop their calluses and coordination.  I find this not only encourages them to play and explore more on their own, but keeps their focus on developing their own style. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass French Horn

I hope to emulate some of my great teachers including Robert Hurst, Cecil McBee, John Lockwood and others. Of course regular practice is necessary, but listening is also key to advancement. Besides regular warmups and technical workouts, I encourage every student to transcribe, sing and play along with music they like. My students will not only learn the ins and outs of their instruments, but also will learn to make their own music through improvising and composing.--Some of my experience includes almost a decade of national and international touring plus several years teaching ensembles and in classrooms at the university leve. Read More