Bass Guitar with Al P.

Born in Portland ME, Al's parents moved around a lot and finally settled in New York. When Al was 10, he took his first lessons in piano, then later trumpet, guitar, drums and at 13 yrs old decided to stick with bass guitar. At 16, Al joined his first band and was hooked. Since then Al has improved his craft studying with numerous instructors and gained real world experience through playing and touring worldwide with many bands and ensembles, most notably as bassist for Jose Feliciano from 2008 through 2015. Today Al is an independent recording artist concentrating on writing, recording and teaching music. *** Lesson Details *** Every student is different. I've found that students have vastly different, ages, tastes, goals, and want to learn for different reasons. They also learn and develop in different ways and at different paces. That said, I use the first lesson to determine goals and a general plan for each student. I consider myself a "groove" player and in my musical world, my focus is on rhythm section work. To get there you must first learn several skills. Technique, Timing, Ear Training, and Theory are what I consider the 4 main "food groups" in the "diet" of any good musician. My job is to steer each individual student down the path that gets them there at their pace AND to make it fun. After all people don't choose to learn because they have too, they choose to learn because they want to. Why? Because it's cool and it's fun! I like to dedicate a portion of the lesson to having fun with the instrument. A student may be interested in a certain band or bass player and wants to learn their song. I will ask them to bring me the song (I may already know it) and we'll learn it together. I like to play musical, or instrument related games to help the student learn in an non-stressful, happy and fun way. I think it makes a difference. *** Studio Equipment *** Music Studio on first floor: 16 channel mixing console, computer music workstation loaded with Pro Tools, Digital Performer, Reason, and other music software, music stands, guitars, electronic drum set, keyboard, bass and guitar amps, seating for parents *** Travel Equipment *** I would expect the student to have, or to buy a bass guitar, a practice amp with a 1/4" cable, a metronome, a manuscript book, and a pencil. I can provide a practice amp, metronome and music stand for lessons only. I also can provide on site repairs of their instrument. *** Specialties *** I specialize in Rock, Blues, Jazz and Funk styles of Music