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Bachelor Degree: Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Scholarship
2008 Disney All American College Band
United States Air Force Bandsmen
I am a passionate and motivated instructor and bass player who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. In 2008, I graduated from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies. I have performed all over the world with the Air Force Band, I have had the opportunity to perform and record all types of music including Jazz, Pop, Rock, Orchestra, Folk and Country. I currently have an album being released with singer/songwriter Brian Allison where I am featured extensively on the double bass.
My teaching experience dates back to my college days where I was a private instructor and jazz ensemble coach for a youth program in Bloomington, Indiana. I have since been involved both with private instruction as well as a music director for jazz ensembles as well as pop/rock groups. I emphasize a regular practice routine with guided focus and principles that will help all levels of musicians reach their goals. I like to help others learn new music, expand their knowledge on music theory, transcribe cool lines and licks and then apply their newfound knowledge and skill to their own performances.
I like to teach my students with more of a coaching style. I want to know what their intentions are as a bass player, their willingness to put in the work. After understanding what my students want to accomplish, then we create goals and strategies along the way to ensure they are improving at the desired rate. The best bass players in the professional world are often the most consistent with their work ethic, taking the time to develop their ears, their reading skills in addition to their practice regimen. In addition to helping my student become better instrumentalists, I will help them understand music theory in more depth so they understand chord changes and sight reading.
I learned from my own private study that enforcing the basics sets up the foundation for a successful musician that always gets called for the gig. This includes proper preparation, setting tangible goals and then developing a plan to ensure optimal development as a musician. I want all my students to know not only how to be an amazing musician, but an amazing professional that gets the first call for a performance. This will increase my students confidence in real world situations as well as thrive under the pressures of live performance or studio work. If my students desire to play in a concert or performance at any level, the proper preparation will help to eliminate any nerves or performance anxiety, allowing for students to perform at their best!