
Bass Guitar Lessons & Classes in River West
Find the perfect teacher or instructor in River West for private bass guitar lessons in your home or in their studio.
Popular Bass Guitar Teachers near River West
Check out some of our most popular teachers near River West including Naperville, Bolingbrook, Evanston, Oak Park and Lincolnwood.
About Randal K.
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Learn the foundation to becoming proficient on the bass guitar.
About Randal
Originally self taught, I have recently studied
bass, guitar, and theory at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. Coming from a self taught background, I fully understand the importance of a solid foundation. In the beginning of my playing, after being uninspired by formal lessons, I chose to branch out on my own. This decision definitely slowed my musical growth. Having to fend for yourself is always more difficult than having a guiding hand helping you along. I enjoy passing on the knowledge it took me years to accumulate.
My musical influences range from Rock to Reggae, Blues to Folk.
However, I find equal enjoyment sharing my love of both instruments.
*** Lesson Details ***
My mission is to provide the foundation, through a relaxed and patient approach, for each individual student to reach their own maximum potential. We will cover basic techniques and theory, but we will learn how these are relative to actually playing music that the student is interested in. Let's face it, students want to play music. They are not taking lessons to learn what a pentatonic scale is, even though they will probably use it to play their favorite solo. Many beginners stop playing because they get caught up in the journey, and lose focus on the destination. If these techniques and exercises are shown to be relative to actually playing music, most students can't stop practicing, instead of viewing practice as work, or boring.
Each students' lesson is designed specifically for the individual. Handouts will be provided to offer support and reference, but the students desire and willingness to practice on their own will dictate how fast we move along.
The ultimate goal for me is to provide a relaxed atmosphere where students are having fun doing what they love. There will be plenty of time to learn complex chord shapes and theories. I simply want to create players who once they have started, will never stop playing.
*** Studio Equipment ***
I am available for lessons given in your home or mine. I provide small recording equipment, and drum machine. Each student will be able to record a cd of their playing to help in the learning process.
*** Travel Equipment ***
Recording equipment, drum machine, amps, and lesson plans. Student provides own instrument. Although I have provided instruments in certain situations.
*** Specialties ***
Rock, Reggae,Blues, and Fingerstyle.
Reviews

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Anya is progressing quite well and really enjoying her lessons!

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Randy has been a great teacher for my 6-yr-old daughter. She is really shy & he was great with her. Friendly. Tailored the lessons to her level!

Randal K.
About Joseph M.
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I teach electric bass guitar using the Hal Leonard method. Also get students into learning songs, bass patterns and scales early in their learning.
About Joseph
As a guitarist in my early years I spent much time reworking my technique and gaining insight in how guitar playing really works. My early struggles gave way to a solid knowledge of the guitar and music.
This was gained through no small part through my High School music teacher, through master classes of Manuel Lopez Ramos and Abel Carlevaro and others.
These master classes helped me in a big way to develop teaching systems and principles that can help anyone to learn guitar easier and more effectively.
You will gain from the knowledge of these world class guitarists and teachers which will help you to play better and more musical.
And from my musical background-of playing hundreds of songs and compositions of many styles and understanding o
Teaching philosophy
I will give you simple technical training to help the hands work together and develop a musical sound. As I teach I look for your gifts (in creativity, musical playing etc) and actively look to enhance that gift.
When problems come along in your studies, I help you to solve them in a way you can apply them for yourselves. Teach and show students how music works and how to play artistically.
How to Start
Will work with you to find a convenient time/day to schedule lessons at your home or our studio
There is a money back guarantee on the 1st lesson so you can try and see how lessons can help you to reach your goals. Selecting the "get started now" button will put you in contact with our student counselors.
P.S. Take the first step in learning music by contacting us.
*** Lesson Details ***
Teaching for over 13 years in all major styles. Helping beginning or returning students of all ages (kids and adults). and backgrounds to learn music.Have taught all ages from 5 to 60 years old.
Will work to develop a personalized plan specifically for you and/or your child or family member.
Studied at Roosevelt University as a classic guitar major with music education and jazz studies.
Give students a well rounded education in all the major styles-techniques, teaching them finger picking as well as pick technique, chords and improvisation.
I specialize in building a strong foundation both musically and technically for people that have not played guitar or even music before and helping them to reach the musical goals they desire.
For the pick guitar I use the Mel Bay method along with handouts for chords/exercises and finger picking patterns This gives you flexibility to explore many musical styles.
For classic guitar I use the Sagreras or Parkening methods plus the same handouts as for pick guitar.
For electric bass I use the Hall Leonard Method, plus handouts.
I teach children how to practice and to keep a practice schedule.
I operate with a patient approach, a comfortable learning process. This helps you to learn properly and builds a solid foundation for your playing.
Lesson Progression
In general after 3 months you will know all the basic chords and how to change them. How to play the blues scale, read music /tab plus some songs with basic chords.
For the electric bass you will play blues patterns, read music and tab.
After 6 months you will be in general able to play bar chords, and more complex songs (with full chords).
For the electric bass more complex songs, movable major scales.
Keep in mind as you move through these studies you will be enjoying playing music and be moving towards the goal you had in mind in taking up music including learning the music, the styles you wanted to play.
*** Studio Equipment ***
I can provide a music stand and a foot stool. I can get them or show them where to get a method book They would just need a guitar.
*** Travel Equipment ***
I can teach lessons at the students home in Des Plaines, Park Ridge, Morton Grove, Skokie, Wilmette and adjoining communities.
*** Specialties ***
Be encouraged that you and/or your family member can learn to play and it's not as hard as you think.
What I have found is it takes no special talent to play the guitar, just the desire to practice and learn. Lessons with a teacher helps you to learn quicker and more problem free, unlike other approaches. A teacher can help you personally when you have problems and questions. The investment you make will help you or a family member to play music for many years...
Teach most major styles folk, rock, blues, classical, finger picking, Jazz (Bossa Nova)
Also gospel, praise and worship guitar.
Reviews

· Guitar · In studio

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My daughter enjoyed lessons with Joe. He was patient and good at explaining to a beginner.

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Joseph M.
About Michael P.
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Bass is the backbone of any good rock band. You'll learn how to stand out while being the solid foundation from which everything is built on.
About Michael

Michael P.
About Daniel K.
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Professional level coaching and development
About Daniel
Daniel is described by his students as a natural teacher. He prefers to be regarded as an advancing student, and takes the journey along with his students to guide them towards their goals with a friendly, positive, efficient and productive appro
The musical journey for Daniel began at an early age with trumpet and piano studies which became a passion for him by the age of 14. He was the drum major of the high school marching band, and successfully completed a paid contract to arrange music for the high school jazz band which performed in a state beauty pageant. He began teaching privately after high school, and continued playing in bands, and composing original music. He formed a professional jazz ensemble under the name of the Chicago Jazz Players by the age of 22, and developed his arranging techniques while having it performed by an eighteen piece orchestra consisting of many great local artists. It was in this environment that he gained experience with brass, woodwinds, and rhythm instruments. He was granted a position at Columbia College as an instructor at age 29 where he taught theory, sight singing, musicianship, ear training, harmony, orchestration, and composition. He scored the music for several plays, and conducted his own pieces with Chicago Symphony and Lyric Opera Players. During those years he found himself playing the guitar and singing more than anything else. It was in 1995 that he focused on singing and playing the guitar with his rock band. He has produced several CD recordings of his original music in his own studio, and has helped produce local bands and artists. He performs regularly in the Chicago area.
*** Lesson Details ***
Daniel exhibits patience and care with each student, and develops an individualized approach based on clear goals with practical procedures. Most beginners can expect to have a working knowledge of music notation and how it applies to their instrument within three months, and should be developing fluency in performing music that they enjoy within six months. Advancing students will enjoy the rewards that will follow by studying with an experienced teaching musician that will recognize strengths and weaknesses, and recommend proven techniques for personal musical development. Studying music should be fun, fulfilling, and in harmony with the needs and desires of the student, and this is key to the philosophy held by Daniel.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Eight track recording gear; grand piano; guitars/bass (acoustic & electric); cables/amps, drum kit and percussion.
*** Travel Equipment ***
I can provide lesson materials, and always have a metronome with me. I expect the student to have an instrument. I prefer that a student has a music stand.
*** Specialties ***
Customized approach to the individual based on needs and goals.
Reviews

· Singing · In studio

· Saxophone · In studio

· Saxophone · In studio

Daniel K.
About Eli B.
CloseThe electric bass is the foundation of any band. But, it is in no way limited by this role. Just within the traditional role of a electric bass player, a world of nuance exists that adds character and interest to any group. Beyond that, innovative new approaches to playing have emerged and exciting new possibilities for the instrument have made becoming an electric bass player more enticing than ever. In lessons, I help the student to realize what it is to be a bass player, and how building on past masters and current innovators can be liberating and informing. I aim to help my students appreciate the joys of playing electric bass as well as ensure that they will be an asset to any group they decide to join.
About Eli
I have had the benefit of working with great teachers throughout my bass playing career, including members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Lyric Opera, and the Chicago Jazz Ensemble. Because of this, I understand what a difference the right teacher can make. Furthermore, I know what teaching styles and techniques work best for me as a current student, so I am able to relate, and tailor the lesson to fit the student's needs.
Reviews

· Upright Bass · In home

· Bass Guitar · In home

· Bass Guitar · Online
Eli knew exactly where to start with me... he truly has an amazing ability to gauge where the student's level of knowledge is, and tailor the lesson exactly to that. Within a few lessons, I had improved my form tremendously. We covered everything that I wanted to learn, and wasted no time on things that I already knew.
What's more, a few of the instructors I have had in the past came off as a bit elitist and snobby. Eli is one of the most genuine guys around. He'll guide the lesson at your own pace, always willing to pause and show you something a second, third, or fourth time... At no point do you ever feel like you are going to ask a dumb question. This is a crucial trait of a good instructor, and Eli definitely has that going for him.
He is also quite accommodating. We typically do Skype lessons, but one there was one time that his room mate had made a slight miscalculation in the internet bill, which resulted in no internet that day. Rather than let that stop him, he actually brought his bass and amplifier on the bus, and came to my apartment to give me the lesson in person. He will make sure you get your lesson, one way or another.
My only regret is that I don't have a 6th star to give the guy! I definitely recommend him to anyone looking to learn how to play the bass guitar.
Eli B.
About Matthew C.
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I'll teach you fundamentals of grooving well and how to play in any and all style you desire! Writing bass lines, learning from the greats, and teaching you how to improvise in any situation.
I can teach basic to intermediate slapping techniques as well as bass tapping. I'll go over some useful scales and modes as well as basic to advanced music theory.
About Matthew
Matt is currently in his last semester at Roosevelt University for Jazz and Contemporary Music Performance on the Upright Bass. At CCPA he has had the opportunity to travel to St Louis, and New Orleans with the CCPA Large and Latin ensembles. Most recently, he performed at the JEN conference in New Orleans, where he performed with Howard Levy, one of the worlds greatest Harmonic players.
He has also performed many times at the Jazz Showcase and the world renowned Auditorium Theatre with many of the combos at CCPA.
He has had the opportunity to study with some of Chicago's best musicians, such as Ruben Alvarez, Henry Johnson, Paul Wertico, Paulinho Garcia, Cheryl Wilson, and T
Matt is also confident in teaching basic piano skills as well as jazz piano chord theory and improvisation.
Besides jazz and classical, Matt plays a lot of blues, rock n roll and funk on the bass guitar with a band, where he has played shows at Chicago's House of Blues, Double Door, Metro and many more.
Matt believes music should be a fun form of expression and communication, that improves the players life, as well as those around them.
Reviews

· Bass Guitar · In home

Matthew C.
About Cameron R.
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Bass is the backbone of music, lets learn it together!
About Cameron
My guitar lessons do not have a set curriculum, becaus
My new studio is located in the South Loop of Chicago, IL and has all the equipment to help making guitar has easy as it can be.
As my student, you will have access to my studio and able to record your own music and ideas anytime.
Studio Includes:
-Recording Capability
-Music Stands
-Amps, Cords, Strings etc.
-Books and Sheet Music
-Logic/Pro Tools/Finale and other music software
I have played guitar in professionally produced musicals such as "Godspell" and "Once Upon A Mattress." I have also been a pit guitarist for high school and middle school show choirs, requiring excellent reading skills and on the spot adaptation to changes.
Reviews

· Guitar · Online
In case you have any doubts on what teacher to select, go watch his videos. He is a monster player with lots of singing in his note choice and phrasing. He is a top musician.

· Guitar · In studio

· Guitar · In studio

Cameron R.
About Phil C.
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With a full and easily accessible knowledge of theory, you're already on your way as a bass player. Adding technique to basic theory, you can quickly move beyond the beginner level. That's what we'll do.
About Phil
My approach in private instruction involves tailoring the lessons to the specific needs of each student, while making sure that he/she has the knowledge and technique to succeed in their creative endeavors. Whether it's a hobby or a potential career, I leave nothing out. You will learn the entire instrument. In cases where a student works in more than one subject, one session can typically be applied
I also offer group lessons for 3 or more students. For friends at similar skill levels, this can offer a fun and more affordable way to learn a subject. It also serves as an additional motivator as the students in the group feed off of each other for ideas and inspiration.
Please feel free to contact me with the "Ask Phil a Question" button on my profile here. This can include questions about my method, or regarding days and times for lessons. What you see in my availability here is based on my schedule away from TakeLessons. I have students elsewhere and perform shows regularly. I may have additional times available and tend to have some flexibility. I teach worldwide online. Just ask.
As soon as you're ready to book lessons, you can use the Green Button after selecting your area of study, day and time. I will receive a notification that you've signed up. I will then confirm with you and send a questionnaire regarding your lesson needs within 48 hours.
Thanks for your interest.
I look forward to working with you!
Reviews

· Ukulele · In home
Phil is creative with teaching method and was able to adapt to our son's needs. I would highly recommend Phil

· Singing · Online

· Acoustic Guitar · In home

Phil C.
About Zac E.
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I've played bass for 8 years, played in 5 different bands, and studied for two years on electric bass. I'd love to share my passion for 4 strings and help you become the best you can be.
About Zac

Zac E.
About Solomon K.
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While I am a bassist, I also compose and write songs. Very frequently, I will take a somewhat less orthodox approach in doing so, and use the bass guitar as a full range and lead instrument. Many players pinhole the bass into a supporting role only. It serves this function excellently, and it is at the core of the instrument, and therefore also at the core of studying bass. However, the instrument can do so much more if properly approached.
About Solomon

Solomon K.
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