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Learn More About Jesse's Experience:

bass guitar Bass guitar is one of the most overlooked instruments. As Stephen Colbert said about bass players "...Instead of fame, fortune and groupies, [bass players] stand in the shadows plucking one note for 90 minutes..." While this is a popular stereotype, there is much more to being a bass player. As a matter of fact, anyone who thinks they can get away playing one note for 90 minutes has clearly been mistaken. I have been studying music for 9 years. My first years were spent on piano and trombone in band class. Five years ago I started private lessons on bass guitar and it has been with me ever since. During my first year of playing, I auditioned for the jazz band and was accepted. Today, I now play in the top Jazz Band at the Stillwater Area High School (with a very reputable program) and we've won a number of jazz competitions. I also play in a smaller Jazz combo which plays paid gigs. When I’m not walking bass lines, I play bass for a few different rock bands. My first 3 years of bass lessons were primarily rock so I have developed skills for tapping, slapping, and the fundamental skills for any rock bassist. When carrying these skills into teaching, there are a variety of different methods which, in my opinion, make a stronger bass player. One key factor is playing with another instrument. In my learning, I found it difficult to learn how to play with others because I rarely had the opportunity. My teachers always just had another bass and they showed me what to change and new techniques. While I plan on using this approach, I also use a regular guitar so students can learn how to play with others. By doing this, I'm able to teach chord changes more effectively, and how to harmonize with other instruments. This way, students have the ability to play more than one note in the 90 minutes they are on stage. In fact, as long as my students know their chord changes, they can play what ever notes they want and sound great- a great learning advantage of a jazz bassed (nice pun) bass player. I do not recommend starting students on bass until they are at least in 3rd-4th grade due to the nature of the instrument. It requires a fair amount of muscle and callusing due to the rather large strings. If you are just entering the world of bass, please send me an e-mail. Buying a bass can be rather overwhelming and many music stores tempt you to spend more than necessary. Good luck with the bass, and I hope to work with you soon! general computer Computers and I have always clicked. However, I realize that it does not come naturally to everyone (cough, like French for me). My dad brought home our first computer when I was 6 years old. Since then, I have acquired experience in almost every operating system of Windows and Apple as well as various software programs and different hardware. If this stuff doesn't make any sense to you, I understand completely. I try to always maintain a positive, good-humored attitude and show people that computers can make sense once you get the hang of them. I also have witnessed my family mess our computers up on a number of occasions, so I'm equipped with the knowledge to figure out most technical problems. Besides fixing computer issues, I have taught a number of people to use computers ranging from grandparents to my little brothers and sisters (they no longer need to ask how to install games or how to save stuff). I have babysat many for many families in my neighborhood so I’m pretty good with kids. For computer users that are familiar with computers but just need a little help, I am skilled with Microsoft Office as well as various other programs, including Photoshop Elements. If you are setting up your computer for the first time, I have experience with setting up both wired and wireless networks. I can teach you how to get your laptop to print without any cords or strings attached, and even share files between computers. Or, if you are sick of those "internet guys" that put you on hold, I am familiar with setting up e-mail accounts and internet connections. Scanner, camera, sound trouble? I cover all of that stuff too and am happy to show you all the tricks of the trade. Finally, if your computer has been slowing down lately, I can show you how to speed it up and get rid of all those old useless programs. Or if it’s really slow, I can show you how to upgrade it in a cost effective manner or help you pick out a new computer that fits your lifestyle. As I said before, technology comes naturally for me and if you have a question that I didn't cover, feel free to ask! I look forward to showing you how to get the most out of your computer.