Frustration finding a Teacher.

[Kgoodrich]

Living in Iowa means it's hard enough to find great teachers but after going to near every local store in des moines and ames I've found that bass teachers are near impossible to find.

I feel like I'm stuck at my current level and a teacher would help me push myself to the next level, sadly that is becoming harder and harder.

Anyone else have real trouble finding a instructor?

[Renegade614]

What level are you? I currently live in Ames, and would be willing to give you some lessons

[jazzbo]

Go to a jazz show and approach the bassist. Talk him/her up, find out who his/her teacher is/was or who he/she would recommend. It's hard to find a good teacher through cold searches. It can help to have somebody's direct recommendation.

It does not matter if you play or like jazz or if you have any desire to ever play jazz. This is a stereotype, but we're playing percentages here: if someone is a good jazz teacher, it is likely that they have the technical and theoretical skills, all around musicianship, and experience to teach you in whatever style you would like to play.

Good luck.

[Soverntear]

the jazz show idea is a good one. i found mine using the TB teacher search. i couldnt ask for a better teacher. and yes he is a jazz guy. lol just wish he knew slapping better :P

[mileszs]

I feel your pain. I thought I found a teacher (with a good resume), but he has either been missing or ignoring my emails (after previously answering them). I'm debating whether I should give up on him because I don't want an unreliable teacher, or press the issue with a phone call.

I'm positive there are good teachers somewhere in Indy, as there is a jazz scene, and some jazz history. I evidently just don't know how to find them.

Well, either that, or my emails scare them away.

Good luck!