Stephen has been playing the bass guitar for over 10 years and has subsequently developed a deep understanding of the instrument and how to create a distinctive sound. Growing up in London meant Stephen has had exposure to the vast amount of jam and gig opportunities in the city for over a decade, with the diverse range of music on offer being influencing him over this time. Performing live over this period has given him great experience on stage. This includes having to improvise, play unknown pieces and lock in with a new band.

The gigs Stephen has played include performances in venues ranging from intimate locations such as Soho’s ‘Spice of Life’ and ‘The Camden Assembly’ to more substantial venues such as Hamburg’s ‘Birdland’, ‘The 02 Academy Islington’ and ‘The Shepherd’s Bush Empire’. The experience of gigging means Stephen’s lessons can take a more performance psychology approach, or have an emphasis on how to sound good on stage and fit into an ensemble.

Having completed a degree course at BIMM London means Stephen’s bass playing consists of many different and advanced techniques, which push bass playing to its limits. Bass techniques taught include slap bass, tapping, chordal playing and much more. Also, his good music theory knowledge is taught in an applied fashion, meaning that the lesson will not stray too far from being a ‘hands on’ bass lesson. Overall, this means that lessons will advance on several fronts, allowing you to grow as a musician as well as a bass player.

Music Qualifications & Achievements:

• Degree: BMus (Hons) Popular Music Performance
• Been played on BBC Radio 2
• Played Shepherd’s Bush Empire

I enjoy helping people to learn, improve and grow.