Bass Lessons in Cloverly, MD

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Lap Steel Guitar Ukulele Double Bass Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I sincerely believe that even the most basic material can be made to "sound good", and I stress this from the beginning. I'm big on playing duets. I'll tend to toss in tidbits about the physics of sound, or how muscle memory works. I like to engage the curiousity of the student in this way. I like to ask students about what music they like, and what they would like to do--play in a school talent show? Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

My approach varies depending on the student's skill level and chosen instrument, but for beginners I always try to get them familiarized with their instrument: teaching them the basics of reading music and how to navigate the different keys (or strings, etc.). From there I start teaching various musical concepts, the rudiments of music theory, and begin introducing them to different styles of music. When the student is advanced enough, I start having them run through my own custom designed technique and skill drills, and have them start selecting music that they would like to perform on their own. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Double Bass Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Music Keyboard

Observing and listening to a variety of different artist and styles of music pertaining to your respective instrument; helps you gain a great deal of insight of how the playing of your instrument can possibly look, as well as how the playing your instrument can possibly sound. Routine practice and the application of knowledge, as it pertains to proper posture, breathing techniques, embouchure formation, handling positions, and expression, helps you perform from your core and the depths of your soul. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass Tuba

The next chapter of my life was living in the East Village starting in 1976 and playing in jazz clubs, subbing on Broadway shows and later getting married and raising a son who I am very proud of. In a busy and sometimes struggling life you don't always have time to look back and talk about your art. It is only later that you get that unique chance. My wife helped me organize myself and after finishing my first degree I found myself teaching in China Town, and later in Brooklyn, and Harlem. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Bass Guitar Double Bass

I have found that for musicians at all levels, especially beginners, exploration is key. Learning an instrument is like building a relationship with that instrument and discovering what sounds you can create together. I use this guided discovery as a tool for discussing technique and musical ideas. Once enough fundamentals are grasped, I introduce repertoire which will lead to a recital performance. I always keep in mind the specific interests of the student and work towards meeting their individual goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For young beginners, I generally will start with a beginning method book (such as Hal Leonard's Essential Elements) but the book will depend on the instrument as well. For older students, I want to know what kind of music they enjoy playing or listen to, and guide them along to reach their goals--whether that be to play in a band, write and record an album, or just become a better player! Read More