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PRIVATE MUSIC INSTRUCTION

I offer private music instruction on both the electric bass and the drumset in the San Francisco Bay Area. Young and beginning students are my specialty, however custom designed lesson plans for all ages and skill levels are available. Weekly half hour lessons for beginners and one hour lessons for intermediate and advanced students are recommended.


Teaching Philosphy
My goal as an instructor is to provide you with a solid musical foundation. Rhythm players must develop a great sense of time and groove while always being creative and dynamic. Here are some lesson topics I cover.

  • Technique
    - instrument set-up
    - dexterity & coordination
    - style & groove
    - how to practice
     
  • Tunes
    - song structure
    - transcriptions
    - sight & chart reading
    - common standards
     
  • Theory
    - rhythm & syncopation
    - ear training
    - scales & modes/rudiments & fills
    - improvising & soloing
     
Students are encouraged to study as many styles as possible, focusing primarily on rock, blues, R&B, funk, latin and jazz.


my stack


The Electric Bass
The recent evolution of the electric bass, a relatively new instrument in the history of music, has made a huge impact on most forms of music. Bass players set the tone — they are the bridge between rhythm and melody. The bass is the rudder that steers the ship.

Bass players are a unique breed, it takes a special musician to play the part. Bass is a supporting role by nature without the glory of a lead instrument, yet one that contributes so much to the overall sound of a band.



The Drumset
People have been banging on things since the dawn of time — for communication, direction and recreation. The modern drumset has become the cornerstone of much of today’s music. The drumset is the engine that drives the bus.

Drummers live in a different world than other musicians. Instead of focusing on scales and chords, drummers must learn an assortment of rhythms and rudiments to successfully propel a band in any style of music.
my ludwig drum kit

Studio Location
My studio is located in the Orinda hills between Berkeley and Walnut Creek off Highway 24. Directions are available on request.

Materials
To get started you will need a working bass or drumset (or practice pad), a metronome, a 12-stave manuscript notebook and an instruction book.

Payment Policy
Payment is due at the conclusion of each lesson. Pre-payment of the following month’s lessons will guarantee your lesson time each week.


Please contact me for more information, rates and available lesson times.



Copyright © 1996-2008 Andrew Benzie
andrew@andreworld.com