Can anyone reccomend someone to take lessons from in DC area?

XsSpeed · #1 10-30-2009, 01:44 PM

I work in Beltsville, MD and Live in Calvert County so If there's anyone in that eastern DC - PG, Ann Arundel, Calvert County that's a reputable instructor, I'd appreciate the lead.

radiohead860 · #2 10-31-2009, 09:37 AM

Even though I don't start taking lessons from him until this week, you might want to check out Dave DeMarco. I got a good vibe from him when I spoke with him on the phone and I've heard quite a few good things about him from friends and other musicians in the area. That, and on his website he describes his teaching methods and thoughts on learning to play seem to be right in line with what I'm looking for.

http://www.marylandbasslessons.com/

I'll let you know how this Tuesday goes though

kpeluso · #3 10-31-2009, 08:07 PM

+1 for DeMarco. A year ago three of my friends told me they needed to find a bass player and asked me if id learn even though Id never played and instrument before. I started lessons with Dave last December. Im playing my first gig Dec 5th without hesitation.

XsSpeed · #4 11-01-2009, 07:55 AM

That's sweet! Thanks guys I'll check him out.

Sean

phatphillss · #5 11-03-2009, 09:28 AM

www.takelessons.com

type in the zip code and it should display a bunch of private teachers in your area filter them by reading there bio and pick one. easy

chris.gotfunk · #6 11-03-2009, 02:46 PM

Hey man, I am friends with Anthony Wellington (Victor Wooten's bass tech/bass player (Yes, he has a bass player with him)). He lives in Calvert County. Go to his website and see if you get with him. He is one of the best, period. I know he is super busy and there is a long waiting list, but if you can get in with him, do it. His website is

www.anthonywellington.com

kesslari · #7 11-03-2009, 02:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chris.gotfunk

Hey man, I am friends with Anthony Wellington (Victor Wooten's bass tech/bass player (Yes, he has a bass player with him)). He lives in Calvert County. Go to his website and see if you get with him. He is one of the best, period. I know he is super busy and there is a long waiting list, but if you can get in with him, do it. His website is

www.anthonywellington.com

Anthony is a phenomenal player AND a brilliant teacher. Good enough that I study with him remotely from California. He's that good.

Gintaras · #8 11-03-2009, 03:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by radiohead860

Even though I don't start taking lessons from him until this week, you might want to check out Dave DeMarco. I got a good vibe from him when I spoke with him on the phone and I've heard quite a few good things about him from friends and other musicians in the area. That, and on his website he describes his teaching methods and thoughts on learning to play seem to be right in line with what I'm looking for.

http://www.marylandbasslessons.com/
-

I'll let you know how this Tuesday goes though

I have been studying with Dave for 3 years. I leave every lesson energized and wanting to go home and practice. He is also an accomplished drummer and singer. Sometimes after working out a line, he will jump on the drums and we will play it to see how it fits.
You also need to go see him play!!!!

radiohead860 · #9 11-03-2009, 11:11 PM

I really enjoyed the lesson with Dave and he immediately recognized some technique issues that I've built-up over the past 8 years of self-taught off/on playing.

I practiced for a few hours once I got home to start working on what he showed me and am really psyched to keep practicing and improving with him teaching the way!

Dave played drums and I really feel that it helped out while we were playing too; I've never been very good at self-counting or metronome playing since I've always played in bands or along with recorded music. The fact that Dave hops on the drums is a huge benefit since most people are probably in bands or looking to join a band.

Not only that, but I really feel like he takes serious consideration when doing his lesson plans as he works to customize them for your skills and experience. I took lessons before and was not impressed with the ad hoc approach of coming up with things on the fly, I like knowing what's on the horizon and that there's a progressive path for becoming a better musician.

I will definitely try to get out to see him play one of these days!

XsSpeed · #10 11-04-2009, 01:23 PM

Anthony is actually in Charles County (across the river). I have an appointment with Dave the monday after next. I am excited. I play in a band with guys that have been playing (not together) for 20 years. I have only been playing for 10 months. So I am stressed about trying to hold my own. We have our 1st live gig in 10 days.

I am looking forward to Dave helping me past the tabs and "dummies" book. I know I am really fortunate to play with these guys and it is speeding up my progress (than if I were alone).

radiohead860 · #11 11-04-2009, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by XsSpeed

I am looking forward to Dave helping me past the tabs and "dummies" book. I know I am really fortunate to play with these guys and it is speeding up my progress (than if I were alone).

Glad I could help with the referral! I don't think that you'll be disappointed!!!

mefunkufunk · #12 02-01-2010, 01:49 AM

In addition to playing drums well, Dave also plays keyboards very well! Can't believe no one else mentioned that! We work on songs from the real book and Dave will jump on piano and comp through the changes in addition to playing bass lines with his left hand when I need help.

I very highly recommend him. Been studying with him since last summer and I find his depth of knowledge to be as deep as his level of commitment. Go to www.marylandbasslessons.com