Bass Lessons in Smithville, TX

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

We will mostly learn things that you can practically apply to any gig and that also help develop their overall understanding of their role as a drummer on stage and in a group setting. Knowing this is crucial for any aspiring musician because you will always be on stage with other people and it's important to know your role in those situations. Of course we will also have fun and I always make sure to make room for just fun things the student wants to learn that may not be super applicable. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Ukulele

I typically begin with rhythm. The best melodies would not be worth anything if they aren't played with rhythm. After a student gains basic familiarity with their instrument I use a metronome (a musician's best and worst friend. Instead of playing traditional exercises, I teach students their favorite songs and techniques typical of their favorite genres. With my understanding of theory I try to incorporate a tiny bit of theory into every lesson to make an initially intimidating subject more accessible. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

Mel Bay's first 2 bass books were my first but there are many to choose from. Starting slow is imperative for the beginner. This prevents injury because bass is a physically demanding instrument at times. I teach warm ups, breathing, posture, hand and arm positions, stretches, and cool downs. Practicing with a metronome must be a daily routine for the evolving bassist because they are the beat no matter what style. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Born and raised in Austin, Texas, I began playing guitar when I was 8 years old. My love for music has deepened over time, and I feel it is important to share my knowledge and passion for the art with whoever is willing to learn. My earliest teachers taught me in a way that made music fun, rather than tedious, which to me is essential. I played in Jazz Band through middle school and high school, which opened my ears to another dimension of music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Saxophone Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

For beginning students who have no experience on their instrument, I usually spend a fair chunk of time working on basic technique using books like the Essential Elements series or Greg Horne's similar books for folk instruments. I usually combine the book material with other songs/pieces relevant to each student's interests. For more advanced students, I usually find a mix of repetoire relevant to their interests and technical exercises for them to refine and develop technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginners, I like to start with proper hand techniques so the student can begin playing a few beginner-level chords. Once a few chords are learned, I generally like to help guide the student in the process of writing their first song! No matter the length or complexity of one's first song, I've found it to be a very encouraging step in the learning process. From there, we move along according to the student's need or desire. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I began teaching private lessons and ensemble rehearsals in 1999, having since taught everything from elementary music and concert band to marching band and college-level drum corps. I love it all, as it's all about sharing the positive experience of performance and excellence with the next generation of musicians. In addition to teaching instrumental skills and technique, I also enjoy coaching music theory and composition, and often encourage students to bring in their own compositions to review or perform. Read More