About
I am primarily a jazz bassist, but I earned a performing arts masters degree in classical bass in 1982 - I have been, as did my teacher Lennie Tristano, teaching the art of jazz improvising to players of all instruments including drummers and vocalists since the mid 1970's - I also spent about thirty years as a member of the music faculty at one of the CUNY colleges - my article "Doing it the Slow Way" first published in 1989 has since circulated widely via the internet and has been translated into many languages including Japanese
What I really love is hearing my students find and develop their own individual "voices" on their chosen instruments - that is what the art of improvising is all about and the reason why I have continued to study and teach it for almost 50 years
Reviews
Maia S.
discourage a beginner. Makes sure it is challenging, but not overwhelming. Encyclopedic
knowledge of jazz and music theory. Definitely recommend!
Marzo R.
in an academic setting my entire life.But then, I discovered that I was thought the fast
way.The way to just get a gig. I then through a friend discovered joe Solomon.Joe’s
teaching is the way to internalize the language of music.It’s the way to have ... Show more
Paul K.
improvisation, for sure - and he is a master improviser himself - but most importantly he
will get your head in the right place so you can access the creativity we all have locked up
within us. He is endlessly patient and encouraging and can make anybody fee... Show more
Luca R.
working together. He is highly invested in each one of his students and he creates an
atmosphere where the process can flourish.
Thomas M.
say that for improvisation, the instrument that you play is not the important thing. What
you are learning with Joe is a simple and effective methodology to practicing and
performing jazz improv. For me, it makes practicing feel meditative, where e... Show more
Paul P.
My ear has gotten me a lot of professional gigs over the years but I always felt there could
be more. Joes patient persistence this past year has gotten me to places beyond where I
ever thought I could go. Its been hard to break some old habits and rewire ... Show more
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We meet first for a one hour interview at my expense during which I ask new students questions about their experience (I teach students at all levels) and plans - I then go over very thoroughly my approach to teaching and the practical issues (scheduling, cost, etc.) of studying with me - students are encouraged to ask whatever questions they have and decide for themselves whether to continue