Upright and/or Electric Bass: beginning-advanced levels, music theory, ear training, home recording.

Over the years, my passion for teaching has grown to equal my passion for playing. Music is a really powerful force, and it brings me so much joy to help students find their own joy playing their instrument, working on their craft, and experiencing what it feels like to make music with other people; that's really what it's all about! Some of my proudest moments are when I help a student have a musical breakthrough, big or small. There is a sometimes-overwhelming amount of music out there, and there is nothing better as a teacher than the chance to work with a student 1:1 and chart their unique path forward in a manageable way. As I've progressed in my own playing, I've had to work hard to undo some bad technique habits I made early on; I take great pride in working methodically and attentively with my students so I can help them avoid these same setbacks and enjoy a smoother path to success!

I hold Bachelor's and Master's degrees in jazz bass performance from the Frost School of Music at University of Miami, and the Berklee College of Music, respectively. Over the last 8 years, I've played professionally in many musical settings, specializing in jazz, pop music, R&B/funk, and Indie & classic rock.  In that time, I've played and recorded with numerous bands, and have written and performed my own original music too. Over the past year, I've found my interests evolving; I've been really into the Singer/Songwriter tradition and everyday I try to learn and study another song from one of the greats, whether it's Joni Mitchell or Bob Dylan, or someone more contemporary like Madison Cunningham or Lizzie McAlpine. As I write this, I can't stop listening to Katie Gavin's (of MUNA) new solo record!

As a teacher, my philosophy is to cultivate a fun & exciting learning environment for my students. I believe students are most likely to excel when they believe in their own ability to progress, and are enjoying each step along the way! I always make sure to meet my students where they’re at: we'll discuss your goals & interests, and start to identify what makes you, "you," musically. From there I'll help you leverage your strengths into momentum for further development, all while keeping it light! For example, instead of having to do mundane technical exercises, bring in a favorite song of your's and we can create our own fun & productive exercises along to the song, even if you can't play the song yet.

As much as I remain inspired by so many great musicians in the generations before me, these days I find myself most inspired by my friends & peers in LA and elsewhere, and the incredible music they are making. It reminds me that I should always be pushing the envelope too. I also find inspiration from non-musical things, which for me has been really refreshing and important at times: movies/TV shows with a great story have often left me wanting to create or just play, with a particular emotion in mind as my starting place.