About
I have been teaching privately for 30 years. I'm a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music. I was a bass instructor at Berklee College of Music, and I have also taught at several private secondary schools, in addition to my private studio. As a 25 year resident of New York City, I have extensive performance and recording experience as a bass player. Connecting one-on-one with bass students has always been a rewarding experience for me.
website: www.jawbass.com
It's incredibly rewarding to see a student break through a barrier or challenge on their instrument. It's great when students discover that with patience and practice, they can actually make progress with their playing. I also enjoy the personal side of learning to play an instrument, in that each student learns and grows in their own way.
Specialties
Instrument(s)
Experience level
Students age
Interest(s)
Lesson length
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Jed K.
Marilyn K.
Roger M.
Karl G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I try to find out what the student can already do on their instrument, and what they already know about music, no matter how little. From there, I start with working on technique, such as hand position, holding the instrument, posture, etc. I also begin working on basic concepts of music theory with my students.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have Master's Degree in Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music, and I was involved with the music programs as a non-major at the University of New Hampshire. I have studied privately with such bass notables as Dave Holland, Cecil McBee, David Walter, Jim Orleans, John Hunter, and others. I am a past faculty member of Berklee College of Music.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I generally charge:
$45 per half hour
$60 per 45 minutes
$75 per hour
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching while I was studying at New England Conservatory, and I discovered how much I enjoy working with music students. At the time, it was a great experience to be on both sides of the learning process, as a student and as a teacher. Now I continue to educate and challenge myself with new musical concepts, and I continue to enjoy imparting my knowlendge to my students.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught students, both male and female, as young as 10 and as old as 75. Some of my students have been high school or college level players, and others were non-professional musicians who just wanted to improve their skills on their instrument.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My CD release party in New York City was a career highlight for me. The club was packed, and the band played my music brilliantly. It was very uplifting to have my original music so well received.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Trust your instincts, and most importantly, find someone you are comfortable being with. Learning begins in a supportive and encouraging environment.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your goals from taking lessons?
What music is the teacher interested in, and what musical styles does he/she have experience with?
What method books or materials does the teacher like to use?