Cullen Blain - Music Studio
About
Cullen Blain is a San Diego-based musician and educator dedicated to helping students of all ages discover their musical ability. A versatile performer, he teaches bassoon, upright bass, electric bass, and music theory (musicianship), offering lessons that blend a solid technical foundation with creativity and personal expression.
Cullen regularly performs throughout San Diego, from the classical stage, jazz lounge, or beach bars- you'll find him playing somewhere regularly throughout SoCal. His professional work includes performances with West Bay Opera, Dayton Philharmonic, Cincinnati Chamber Opera, Springfield Symphony, Queen City Opera, and the Kentucky Symphony, among others. He has also performed under renowned conductors such as Keith Lockhart and Paavo Järvi, and alongside artists including The Who, The Four Tops, and jazz legend Lew Soloff.
He holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts (DMA) and a Master of Music in Bassoon Performance from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Central Connecticut State University. His principal teachers include William Winstead, Martin James, Brian Kershner, and Donald Bravo.
As an educator, Cullen is passionate about building confidence, creativity, and musicianship so students can focus on what matters most: making music. He has taught everything from PK–8th grade general music to private lessons and ensemble coaching, and currently serves as a program manager supporting school music programs across Southern California.
Whether you are a beginner picking up an instrument for the first time or an advanced player refining your craft, Cullen offers lessons tailored to your goals, helping every student achieve their sound in creating their musical story.