Finding a good instructor

[jp58]

So, I've decided to start getting lessons, and I need to know what to look for in an instructor. I've been playing for a good bit, but I'm new to the teacher market.

What are good/bad traits to look for in a potential instructor?

[fearceol]

The first thing to make sure of is that he/she is a BASS teacher, and not a guitarist who teaches bass on the side. Ideally it would be best to look for recommendations. Ask about their qualifications (though you dont necessarely have to have this in order to be a good teacher). Also, if they "strongly advise" you to use finger style instead a pick, then head for the door and dont look back.

[jmac]

Where in Tennessee? If you're near Nashville, there's this guy named, Adam Nitti.

If not, you could consider skype lessons with Adam or Anthony Wellington. Both have forums on this site. Both are great teachers. At the very least you could take a lesson or two from them to get an idea of what qualities a great teacher has.

[fearceol]

Originally Posted by jmac

you could consider skype lessons

OP, if you are considering skype lessons, then another great teacher who is now giving them is Carol Kaye.

[randysmojo]

If you want live lessons, I would check with any bass specific stores and also ask around and see who local bass players recommend. One thing I've learned is not every good teacher will be a good teacher for you. They have to connect with you and understand what your goals are. If they constantly are trying to teach you certain things that they deem important and don't listen to what you want to learn, it might just be a waist of money and frustrate you.

[jp58]

I'm not really looking for skype lessons. I feel like face-to-face lessons will probably be better for me. Went to our local music store today, and their guy is a guitarist/keyboardist that teaches bass on the side, and I couldn't find anyone that had taken lessons with him for more than 1-2 months.