About
"Sam Johnson is a patient and caring instructor with over 20 years of performing and teaching experience and is always trying to find better ways to motivate and encourage his students to continue improving their musical skills and musical enjoyment!"
Sam has a Bachelor's of Music in Jazz and Studio Music from the University of Miami. In addition to his teaching career, he works with many professional bands in San Diego; performing many styles of music including Jazz, Rock, Blues, Pop, Flamenco, and Classical. Sam is a highly sought after professional freelance bass player in San Diego, working with 5 - 10 musical groups at any given time, sometimes traveling for performances in U.S. and Mexico.
Currently Sam is teaching at Del Norte and Rancho Bernardo and Mt Carmel High Schools as the Orchestral Bass Coach. He Teaches Electric Bass, Upright Bass, Guitar, Piano, and Music Theory and Composition Monday through Thursday. He is a member of the Music Teachers' Association of California and has been a member of the San Diego Chapter of the Musician's Union.
The best part about being a teacher for me is to see a student "get it". There's a light bulb that turns on and the student couldn't be happier. They begin to be more driven to practice and enjoy playing. Overcoming those stumbling blocks is really what my job is all about. And I love helping students find joy in playing music.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first lesson depends on the student. A brand new student with no musical background will start from square one, whereas a student with previous musical experience will continue where they left off or we'll move in a new direction if that suits them. Once I understand which direction to go, we go in that direction!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor's Degree in Jazz and Studio Music Performance from the University of Miami.
Member of the Music Teachers Association of California.
6 Years private study on classical Upright Bass (post college).
20 years experience teaching both privately and within the public school system.
I generally use these methods:
Piano - John Thompson series
Electric Guitar - Hal Leonard Method
Electric Bass - Hal Leonard Method
Upright Bass - Simandl Method
Any method will do as I cater my teacher style and lessons to the student's needs and interest, not to the specific method.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Online or In My Studio
$50 / 30 minutes
$90 / 60 minutes
At your Home
$50 / 30 minutes
$90 / 60 minutes (may be 1 or 2 students)
Payments are by the month prior to the beginning of each month. Cancellations must be notified 1 week in advance. Rescheduling and makeup lessons are always an option!
How did you get started teaching?
I believe it is important to give back what you've learned in life, whether as a musician, scientist, engineer, doctor or any other career. And so, when an opportunity arose to teach at a local family owned music store, I jumped on it. Its been a wonderful experience ever since. I love watching my students learn and evolve as musicians as wonderful human beings!
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages from 6 to 60. I've tought younger, but only on a case by case basis. I have also worked with students with learning disabilities (music can be a great way to help with those barriers!). No one should miss out on the opportunity to play music.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher that fits your philosophy and is willing to work with your interests. Don't be afraid to change teachers if its not working.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What's your goal? Your lesson will be far more rewarding if you tell your teacher why you want to play a musical instrument.