Bass Lessons in Taconic, CT

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I began teaching in High School once my skill on guitar and bass had surpassed my band teacher; I was tasked with teaching the 3 bass students and 2 guitar students in the program and preparing them for the end-of-year performance. From there I began an odyssey spanning two decades working with students from 7 - 60+ and from beginners to advanced players. I have taught bass and guitar as a way to keep myself engaged and playing/learning even after retiring from touring, and have been lucky enough to have some of the greatest students a teacher could ask for! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Conga Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I typically start by teaching them the parts of the guitar how to hold a guitar and all the physical fundamentals including fretting notes properly etc... then I ask them what their goals are as a player if they’re interested in learning a lot of theory or just want to sing and play with their friends etc.… Then I teach them the names of the strings and tell them to memorize them as well as the dot markers on the fretboard and then I have them learn some strumming patterns and a few simple chords to get them started and then begin learning the names of the notes from open position to 12th and then learning The major scale up the neck one string at a time… And I also incorporate the use of a Metronome which I find is hugely important… Then we incorporate a simple song that they can play with four chords from there onto learning how to harmonize the major scale and then incorporate more theory… All the while assessing their needs and fixing any trouble spots they’re having… Then on to scales and more theory and More Metronome work...And every couple of lessons I teach them a new song of their choosing to make sure that they’re having fun fun fun Read More

Instruments: Piano Bass Guitar Double Bass

I have written several books for the upright and electric bass player that cover all aspects of learning to play the bass. Depending on goals, for most upright players I would recommend a solid grounding in Simandl for learning the hand positions and fingerboard. I also recommend transcribing as well as sight reading and some jazz harmony. All these things are incorporated into my lessons. For electric and upright players I recommend learning tunes, musicianship, technical studies, and maintaining a professional attitude on the gig. 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: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a composer and music educator originally from the San Francisco Bay Area. At a young age I admired classic rock and by high school found a passion for heavy metal music. My love for music lead to my decision to study music in college and make it into my career. After earning my Bachelors and Masters degrees in Music from California State University, East Bay I relocated to Hartford, Connecticut to work on a doctoral degree in music composition. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have 31 years of experience both performing and teaching music professionally. I began playing and teaching while still in college and Never stopped. When I lived in NYC I taught at the Third Street Music Settlement, as well as privately, while also maintaining a steady performing career. I have been teaching in the Upstate N.Y. area for over 10 years now. Of course as a teacher I always encourage a regular practice regiment, while also teaching every student as an individual with various different needs for them to focus on. Read More