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BA, University of Maine, Music Performance
Hello, future student! I am an electric/upright bassist from northern Maine with a degree in Music Performance from the University of Maine in Orono. I've been a part of local music scenes since the age of 17 and began pursuing a professional music career during my time in college, where I was sought after as the bassist for many ensembles both as a student, and as a professional. I continue to be very passionate about sharing my knowledge and expertise with new students, as I have been ever since slowly learning music myself as a child.
I was self diagnosed with "music fever" as a very young child. I began playing shows and concerts with my family as young as 13 and, even then, I loved to teach, and share music with my friends and colleagues. Naturally I pursued a degree in Music at the University of Maine where I became principle bassist of the University Orchestra, and Jazz Ensemble. This combination, as well as countless other groups and performances, taught me a wide variety of learning, and playing styles that would inform the way I would teach my students. Giving lessons at this time quickly taught me how to tailor each lesson to each students specific needs.
As my student my goal will be to help you become a diverse and well rounded musician. For beginners I like to start with the Smiandl Method. This, being a classical method book, will give a strong foundation in technique that translates easily between upright and electric bass. With these building blocks firmly set we can start the real fun! For intermediate to advanced students the world is your oyster! I want to know exactly what your goals are and help you achieve them. Not sure what your goals are? Thats fine too! I am here to take your playing to the next level in as many ways as possible. My philosophy is that your ear is your most important tool as a musician. With this in mind I will emphasize ear training and functional harmony. Music theory can be a complicated beast, but if we practice theory and listening side by side, our understanding becomes much more meaningful.
One of my favorite things as a teacher and a musician is finding creative ways to relate certain musical aspects. Want to learn to play funky slap bass lines? let's start with a few octave excercises. Having trouble with a passage in Beethovens 5th? Maybe we can finger it a different way for less string crossings. Not sure how to count in 7/8? Try grouping beats together differently. These are just a few examples! I want to find out exactly what makes music special to you and help you to explore it to new depths.