Areas of Study
I have taught students as young as 5, and as old as 75. Many of my high school students place in All-State and premiere local ensembles, and I have a 100% success rate with students receiving scholarships at college auditions.
Lessons are $60 / hour. I strongly encourage hour lessons for most students, but half-hour lessons can be arranged, especially for younger students where an hour might be too long.
Lessons are available in person at my home in Omaha, or remotely via Zoom if outside of the Omaha metro. I have a handful of remote students in different parts of the country that effectively learn and improve from the convenience of their home! Contact me to discuss equipment and software adjustments to maximize this style of learning.
Beginner / Introductory
Especially on the double bass, working with a teacher from the beginning is essential. Since it is such a large instrument, having specific guidance on form, technique, and best practices will secure a strong foundation for the student to build on.
Audition Preparation
All-State audition? College audition? Professional ensemble audition? While these are all different scenarios, they all share something in common: auditions are hard. After years of trial and error, I’d be happy to share my strategies on how to “game” the audition process.
Orchestral Literature
With extensive knowledge of the orchestral repertoire, I can work with anyone just starting to learn, as well as those who are working toward taking professional auditions. This can be good for anyone - even if you don’t play in an orchestra!
Additional Styles / Electric Bass
Lots of emphasis is placed on Classical™ and Jazz™, but often not enough attention is given to the broad range of styles that will likely be asked of working bassists. I always encourage students to learn as many styles as possible - you never know when you’ll get the call!
Jazz Fundamentals / Improvisation
Whether you’ve never improvised before, or you’re looking to deepen your connection to your instrument, I have a variety of tools to help! My curriculum uses a straightforward method to help you get comfortable with improvising and unlock your own signature sound.
Overall Musicianship
Perhaps you’re already on your way, and you feel “stuck.” I know this feeling well, and still encounter it myself from time to time. However, I have developed some strategies to reinvigorate and further develop musicianship for those with a strong foundation already in place.