How to find a teacher

mikey11415 · #1 01-04-2009, 10:27 AM

Hi,

I am new to TB. I am reviving a very old interest in standup. Most of the 'newbie' advice suggests finding a teacher. I am looking for more specific assistance in finding one. Here are my questions:

Where can I find a good listing of teachers in NYC for beginners?

Also, for bass teachers, given the size of the instrument, who travels to the lesson: student or teacher?

Can I 'try' a few teachers then choose between them?

Is there anything I should do differently, being a 30-something looking for a beginner teacher?

Should I let the teacher know what my goals are for learning the bass?

Thanks!

Cory Palmer · #2 01-04-2009, 01:48 PM

You can contact the conservatories in NYC and see if they have a listing of students that teach. Usually there are some grad students that teach. I am around the Manhattan School of Music and teach a little, if you are interested in getting a lesson with me send me a pm. There are probably students at Julliard that teach as well. Other than that I'm not sure if there is a listing of teachers for the entire city.

Normally the student travels to the lesson but there are probably more teachers in NYC willing to go to the student if the student isn't too far away.

It's not a bad idea to take lessons with a few teachers before you settle on someone. You want to find a teacher that you can work well with and will teach you what you want.

Andrew McGregor · #3 01-04-2009, 04:13 PM

To your last two questions:

Yes, of course you should let the teacher know what your goals are. That will determine the order the bass technique needs taught, with what emphasis, and what anciliary skills you'll need.

As a 30-something beginner, you'll also need to take care with the physical training aspects of learning the bass. It is in some ways an elite athletic activity for a whole lot of your body's smaller muscles, and an adult beginner can learn the technique fast enough to get ahead of their physical capabilities. That way lies injury. Take care with that, your teacher should be able to help with this.