Joshua Machiz: Bassist, Tuba Player, Composer, Comedian
About
I'm comfortable performing and teaching in a wide range of genres including jazz, classical, rock, latin, blues, country, balkan etc. I've worked with several notable collaborators, many of them Grammy winners and nominees, including Mickey Roker, Uri Caine, Chris Botti, Tom Lawton, Bill Moriarty, Bobby Eli, The Wilma Theater, BalletX, Inis Nua, and Pig Iron Theatre Company. I am currently a member of TJ Kong & the Atomic Bomb, Murmuration, Adult Content, and The Sunset Club. I've performed all over North America at venues including SXSW, CMJ, Trocadero, Union Transfer, Johnny Brenda’s, World Café Live, Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, Kimmel Center, West Oak Lane Jazz Fest, Jacob's Pillow, and the 92nd St Y. I have a Bachelor's degree in Jazz performance from Temple University and 15 years of teaching experience.
I love being able to do something different every day. One day I could be writing a ballet, the next I could be playing with a country band in WV, and next I could be playing with a rock band at Johnny Brenda's! Life is never dull. As far as teaching goes, I love helping musicians become completely independent and find their own voice.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every student is different. The first questions I always ask students are what do you want to learn and who are your favorite musicians? From there I try to help students reach there goals while helping them along with the technical obstacles of their instrument and touching upon theory, ear training, singing (I encourage everyone to work on singing what they play), and keyboard skills. If a student wants to learn to read , focus on playing with the bow, learning to improvise etc is up to the discretion of the student.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelors degree in Jazz Performance from Temple University. I have a been a working musician for 18 years. I have 13 years of teaching experience.
How did you get started teaching?
A couple of friends asked me if I would teach them to play electric bass when we were in high school.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've given lessons to students at all skill levels from beginners to professional musicians.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I performed in a ballet that I helped to compose and write the libretto for at Jacob's Pillow with BalletX. When the opportunity was offered to me, I didn't realize that it is the dream of most dancers to perform there. As soon as we arrived, I realized why. It is the first venue in the country dedicated to dance and it is in one of the most beautiful settings of any venue I've ever been to. It is a special place and I'll always cherish the opportunity that I had to perform there.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Hire somebody who will help you achieve your goals in an fun and efficient manner.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your musical goals? Where do you want to see yourself in 1 year? Where do you want to see yourself in 5 years? Where do you want to see yourself 10 years?