John
Multi-instrumental professional and instrumentalist in Portland
Instruments: Guitar (Acoustic/Electric), Electric Bass, Piano, Beginning Flute & Brass
Best Fit For: Students ages 7–18 and adult learners; especially those looking for a teacher who can bridge the gap between technical theory and professional performance.
Why we recommend him for music lessons in Portland:
With a musical career spanning five decades, he brings a level of wisdom and versatility to the Portland music community that is truly rare. A professional touring bassist with a pedigree from the world-renowned Berklee College of Music, he excels at connecting a student’s personal interests with the technical foundations required to master their instrument. His background in teaching complex subjects like physics and anatomy allows him to explain musical concepts with unparalleled clarity.
He is a staple for families in neighborhoods like Laurelhurst, Sellwood, and Eastmoreland who seek high-level mentorship. His technical standards reflect the professional excellence seen at the Portland State University School of Music. Whether preparing a student for a local jazz workshop or fostering a hobbyist’s love for the Portland blues and rock scenes, he provides a roadmap rooted in real-world experience, akin to the standards of the Oregon Symphony.
Specialized Teaching Focus:
- Electric Bass Performance: Advanced groove, timing, and professional technique.
- Music Production & Theory: Leveraging his Berklee training to teach the “how” behind the sound.
- Creative Woodwinds & Brass: Patient, foundational instruction for flute and brass beginners.
- Habit Formation: Utilizing his background in physics and anatomy to teach ergonomic, sustainable practice habits.
Professional & Educational Background:
- Berklee College of Music: Degree focused on Music Production, Engineering, and Electric Bass.
- Active Touring Pro: Over 6 years of recent professional touring experience and 50 years of musical activity.
- Studio Architecture: Notable history building and instructing in university recording environments.
Teaching Style: His lessons are fast-paced, encouraging, and deeply personalized. He thrives on helping students in the Alameda and Irvington areas discover their unique sound while building the discipline necessary for long-term musical growth.
“John’s depth of knowledge is incredible. He doesn’t just teach the notes; he teaches how to ‘feel’ the music. My teenage son has progressed more in six months with John than in two years with his previous instructor.”
— The Larow Family, Portland
