Sam Johnson
Electric Bass, Upright Bass
Guitar, Electronic Keyboarding/Synthesizer
Theory/Composition, Production/Recording
Music is for EVERYONE! But sometimes you need a little help to get to the next level or just get started.
A message from Sam:
“With over 25 years teaching and performing experience, I have learned to adapt to just about every musical and educational situation. I don’t just use one technique for every student or band, I have many teaching methods and creative ideas that I’ve learned over the years of teaching and performing so I can give YOU the best experience for YOU!
I am a patient teacher and I care about your learning and growth. Music is my life and nothing gives me greater joy than to help others learn to play and play well.
Listening to music is a powerful way to change our mood, express our emotions, and just enjoy our life. But PLAYING music is a whole other level! Playing music for a living brings me joy every day. Whether you play professionally or just for yourself, I hope it will always be a skill that brings you deep satisfaction.”
From his students:
“Sam is an amazing musician and his classes are fantastic! I am learning to play bass and my son is learning guitar. Both are splendid! The theory and practice are fun and easy to learn with his methods.” — RODRIGO H.
“I’ve been taking bass lessons from Sam for over 4 years. I appreciate that he teaches to where I am, and what my needs are—his lessons are tailored to the individual student. He is patient and caring. ” — RON C.
REQUEST YOUR LESSON TODAY!
You can also call or text 858-859-1191 and we’ll get back with you in 24 hours.
Sam Johnson’s Resume
Instruments Taught
Primary - Upright Bass and Electric Bass
Secondary - Guitar, Electronic Music (Keyboards, Synthesizer, Looper, Drum Machine)
Music Theory, Composition, Recording and Live Sound.
All Styles and Genres
Education & Experience
Sam holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz and Studio Music - University of Miami, FL. He has over 25 years teaching & performing experience including Upright Bass Coaching at the Poway and San Diego Unified School Districts.
Performance Credits (2000 - present)
The DePue Brothers, Alex DePue, Grace Kelly, Spencer Day, Christian Hoff, Pop Nouveau, Stepping Feet (DMB Tribute), Michael Tiernan Band, and countless other local acts.
Teaching Credits (2002 - present)
Jazz Band or Upright Bass Coach: Hoover HS, Del Norte HS, Poway HS, Rancho Bernardo HS, Madison HS, Westview HS, Mt Carmel HS, Mt Helix HS, Bernardo Heights MS, Oak Valley MS, Thurgood Marshall MS
Private Music Lessons: City Center Music Escondido, Bertrands Music Rancho Penasquitos, Barefoot Studios Poway.
Summer Camps: Del Norte HS Orchestra, Mt Carmel HS Orchestra, City Heights Orchestra
About ME
Sam started music when he was very young, singing in the church choir with his mother. After a piano was gifted to his family he began piano lessons. In elementary school he started playing the in school band program on recorder and then on Clarinet. During middle school he was offered to opportunity to try almost all of the band instruments and started playing bass and guitar regularly. By high school he had settled on playing Piano, Electric Bass, Clarinet and Singing in the choir which kept him very busy. Once he graduated high school he decided to make Electric Bass his primary instrument which is where he finished his bachelor degree. Once he moved to San Diego he picked up the upright bass and after 6 years of private instruction has made it his primary instrument. As a child, Sam loved to play and listen to and learn about music. Learning the basics on new instruments seemed easy and he was very curious. He teaches with the same passion for learning he had as a child and loves to see his students get excited about playing music!
Methods Used
Lessons are catered to the students skills and interest. Method books are chosen on an individual basis. However, these books are frequently used:
• Hal Leonard Guitar Method
• Hal Leonard Bass Method
• Simandl Bass Method
• John Thompson Piano Method (any method works well)
Teacher’s Philosophy
I believe that we should always give back the gifts that were given to us as a child and as an adult. For me music has been a lifelong pursuit and is a part of me. I love sharing the joy and fun and happiness that that has brought me. Everyone can and should play music. It’s never about being the best, it’s always about having the most fun! (if you want to be the best, I can help you with that too)
Lesson Rates
$50/30min - $200/month
Schedule
Mon, Tue, Wed & Thu from 3:00p to 7:00p
From a graduating senior after 3 years of playing in the orchestra with my help.