Hello, My name is John.

I can benefit you as a student with my experience and great attitude. My general teaching philosophy is to get the students to set goals for themselves and together, work towards those goals. I emphasize the importance of music theory, technique and aural skills. If you would like to know more about my personal experience, keep reading my biography below!

I have a Music degree from Wayne State University, with a concentration in jazz studies, where I focused on performance and writing; including composition, arranging and orchestration. I have several years experience in performance, studio work and teaching. I participate in the American Guild of Music, and Studio Recitals. I have been teaching guitar and bass since 2002.

I am currently a staff bassist at a catholic church in Rochester Hills, MI. I toured with Ugly Radio Rebellion and Ike Willis (of Frank Zappa) for several years. I play in several pop, rock and jazz combos. Most of them playing in fine area restaurants and venues. I have played large festivals, such as Rothbury festival in Michigan, and have open shows for several prominent rock artists. At Wayne State University, I earned a position in the Lab 1 big band playing upright bass, which is the highest ensemble position, and got to play with several great jazz faculty and guest artists through WSU programs. I have played in several musicals and theatric shows, and am a freelance bassist, with good sight reading ability.

*** Lesson Details ***
My lesson curriculum is basically tailored to each student individually. I like to focus on the goals and needs of each student. I think structure is a very important part of playing any instrument, and like to use method books for theory and technique. I also like to keep students motivated by learning and playing songs that the student wants to know. I believe any student can do well in a program like this, in a relatively short time, especially with good practice!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Amplifier and cables. All Lesson Curriculum. Stereo and computer for lesson aides. Upright Bass that can be used for lessons at Royal Oak location.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Music Theory, Ear training, and Sight Reading. I also specialize in Jazz, pop, rock, and fingerstyle.