Billy Smolen

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About

As a young professional bassist and educator, I am uniquely qualified to teach students of all ages and skill levels. With extensive experience on electric and upright bass in rock, jazz, and classical situations, I offer a multifaceted musical approach focused on the goals of each individual student. In my lessons, students can expect to learn to: -utilize scales, arpeggios, and chords in musical ways - keep a steady beat - groove authentically and accurately in different styles - read standard notation and chord charts - walk bass lines over standard forms - improvise solos and accompaniments - think analytically about music - understand aural and written music theory - have fun! The best thing a student can learn with me is incremental, specific, and goal oriented practice. To learn to practice effectively is half the battle. The most satisfying part of teaching for me is seeing students achieve the goals we set forth based on their individual needs. Watching musicians grow in confidence and skill through consistent practice and diligence is rewarding for both the student and the teacher!

Overview

Hired 8 times

Background checked

1 employee

13 years in business

Business hours

Sun8:00 am - 10:00 pmMon8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Credit card, PayPal, and Venmo.

Social media

Instagram

Services offered

Music types

Band

Vocals

Guitar

Piano

Event type

Wedding reception

Wedding ceremony

Birthday party

Cocktail hour

Music genres

Pop / top 40

Rock / classic rock

Jazz / Blues

Mariachi

Projects and media

Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and value.

Exceptional 5.0

6 reviews

5

100%

4

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Read reviews that mention:

Adrienne H.

May 8, 2018

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Hired on Thumbtack

Details: 45 - 64 years old • Yes, can read music staff • No formal training • Electric • Rock • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • Within the next 1 - 2 weeks • Need some more information before hiring • I travel to the guitar teacher

Guitar Lessons

Eric L.

Jun 27, 2023

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Hired on Thumbtack

Details: 45 - 64 years old • No, the student cannot read music • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Blues • Jazz • Once a week • 60 minutes • Wednesday • Evening (after 6pm) • On an ongoing basis • As soon as possible • Conducting initial research • The bass guitar teacher travels to me

Bass Guitar Lessons (for adults)

Ray D.

Nov 1, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

My son has been receiving lessons for almost two months and has really picked up a lot and enjoys his sessions with his teacher. I sit in on most of the lessons and Billy is pleasant and respectful with a good sense of humor.

Bass Guitar Lessons (for children or teenagers)

Melvin D.

May 9, 2018

•

Hired on Thumbtack

Only had one class, but Billy is a true professional. He knows his craft. I am looking forward to continuing my classes with Billy and hopefully I will get good at playing the bass as well as Billy.

Details: 45 - 64 years old • No, the student cannot read music • No formal training • Jazz • More than once a week • 60 minutes • Monday • Wednesday • Saturday • Late afternoon (3 - 6pm) • Within the next 1 - 2 weeks • Conducting initial research • The bass guitar teacher travels to me

Bass Guitar Lessons (for adults)

Parker M.

Jun 4, 2017

Credentials

Background Check

William Smolen

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I charge $50 an hour flat. I am willing to work with students on payment for shorter lessons. I also offer the first lesson FREE of charge, as a way to get to know students, and as an investment in their growth as musicians.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a Bachelors of Music in Jazz Studies and Music Education from William Paterson University. As well as this, I have been teaching privately, in the classroom, and at lesson studios for 7 years.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
The biggest project for me, which I started near 5 years ago, was adding upright bass to my repertoire of instruments. It's such a physical instrument, but is so rewarding to play and to listen to. I think in many ways, this project is still "in progress." Studying any instrument is a life long process of discovery and regular practice. I am constantly learning new things about playing and teaching the bass from my students, other professionals, and in my own practice.