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BA, Washington and Lee University, Music Theory/Composition; BS, Washington and Lee University, Mathematics
2011 - Todd Jone's Memorial Scholarship, funded trip to Victor Wooten Bass Camp.
2009-2013 - Bassist for Washington and Lee University Electronic, Modern Rock, Bluegrass, and Jazz Ensembles.
I've always had a love of music and especially of composing. I began playing the bass guitar 11 years ago and have been composing music ever since. I graduated from Washington and Lee University in 2013 with a BA in Music Theory/Composition, as well as a BS in Mathematics. In addition to playing in the University Jazz, Bluegrass, Electronic, and Modern Rock ensembles, I was a member of nearly every student band on campus, as well as some bands off campus. Nearly every band needs a bass, so I've accumulated lots of experience in several different styles and settings. In 2011 I attended Victor Wooten’s Bass Camp via a University Scholarship.
Through college I have given lessons to those around me fascinated by the bass and how to play as more than just a typical bass. All of these students were either teenagers, or in there early 20's, but I am open to teaching children as well. Most of my lessons revolved around slap, harmonic, and chordal techniques, like those showcased by Les Claypool Victor Wooten, and Jaco Pastorius. To really grasp these techniques, or any other facet of bass playing, I encourage students to practice regularly, listen often, and note progress. Noting progress and documenting achievements is of vital importance. It keeps the student motivated, on track, and confident. Confidence in playing is one of the hardest traits to instill in a new musician, but once it is there I find it improves their playing dramatically.
I believe music lessons of any form should be all about what the student wants to accomplish, rather than a strict curriculum. Of course, there is a proper place for describing technique, scales, etc, but once a basic understanding is achieved I like to delve into a student’s specific passion. This may be music theory, composition, a specific style, a specific bass technique, or something entirely different. When the student is truly interested and truly wants to learn the subject matter, rather than perhaps running a repetitive drill, I find the student advances much faster.
I believe it is important to set long term goals and to work with the student at every lesson to help achieve these goal. Not only through instruction, but through example as well. I believe it is enormously important for the instructor and the student to play music together at some point in each lesson. In this setting, it gives the student a chance to develop his or her own style as well as pick up on the nuances of an experienced player.