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Bass

Bass guitar lessons in Toronto

Bass is the heartbeat of a band, and a great way into music: the part is clear, the role matters, and you can be playing with others quickly. Learn bass in private lessons with experienced players in East York.

Free

First trial lesson

1-on-1

Private format

30 / 45 / 60

Minute options

Since 1965

Teaching music

  • 5 stars on Google

    Trusted by hundreds of students

  • Teaching since 1965

    60+ years in the neighbourhood

  • RCM exam prep

    Certified professional teachers

  • Voted #1 by NOW Magazine

    Best music school in the GTA for private lessons

What bass lessons cover

Bass lessons are built around your goals and the music you want to play. Typical topics include:

  • Setting up, posture and comfortable fretting-hand technique
  • Fingerstyle and pick playing
  • Timing and groove, locking in with drums or a click
  • Reading tab and standard notation
  • Scales, arpeggios and building bass lines, including walking bass
  • Playing along with songs and learning to play with a band

Who teaches bass

Kevin McCloskey has taught bass to beginner and advanced players since 2001, on top of 30 years of professional playing and 25 years of studio sessions. He plays electric, fretless and upright bass. Melissa Paju, a multi-instrumentalist, composer and vocalist, also teaches bass alongside guitar, piano, vocals and songwriting.

Do I need to play guitar first?

No. Bass is its own instrument, and many students begin with it. If you later want to try guitar, the skills carry over, and many students add a second instrument over time. Wondering whether it is worth it? Read are bass lessons worth it?

Rentals and practice

The school rents electric basses, so you can start before buying one. When you are ready to purchase, ask your teacher to help you choose an instrument and amp that suit your hands and your music.

Faculty

Your bass teachers

Experienced working musicians who teach bass one-on-one.

Lessons and rates

Lessons are $40 for 30 minutes, $55 for 45 minutes and $70 for 60 minutes, billed in four-lesson cycles. There are no registration or administration fees, and music lessons are not subject to tax. Your first lesson is a free trial.

See all prices

FAQ

Questions we hear often.

Have another? Reach out and we'll happily answer before you commit to anything.

Ask a question
  • Do I have to play guitar before bass?

    No. You can start on bass directly. Your teacher will teach the techniques and concepts bass needs from the first lesson.

  • Electric bass or upright bass?

    Most students start on electric bass. Fretless and upright bass are rewarding next steps with the right teacher, and Kevin plays all three.

  • Can I rent a bass?

    Yes. The school rents electric basses at competitive rates. Ask us for current rental details when you book your trial lesson.

  • How old do you have to be to learn bass?

    Bass suits teens and adults especially well. Younger players can start too, and your teacher will advise based on hand size and goals.

  • How much do bass lessons cost?

    Lessons are $40 for 30 minutes, $55 for 45 minutes and $70 for 60 minutes, billed in four-lesson cycles. There are no registration or administration fees, and music lessons are not subject to tax. Your first lesson is a free trial.

Keep exploring

Related reading and lessons.

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  • Google reviewsRated 5.0
  • Established1965 · Leaside
  • CurriculumRCM exam prep
  • PressVoted #1 by NOW Magazine