Julian
About
I have been playing upright and electric bass professionally for the past decade. I've been teaching private lessons for the past 3 years. I spent 9 years performing and touring with the 44th Army Band. I’ve gigged throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, playing with groups such as the Erik Jekabson Tentet, Salsabrosos, and the Julian Otero Trio. I studied jazz bass at the California Jazz Conservatory until 2024.
Teaching Style
No matter what style you play, the most important thing is groove. I approach bass as if it is a drum that plays notes. Its all about time and feel, everything else comes secondary. We learn technique so that our fingers don't get in the way of the music. We learn theory so our brains don't get in the way.
Curriculum
"Simandl" is the foundation of my technique method for both upright and electric. "Standing in the Shadows of Motown" is essential for learning groove. For students interested in salsa bass, "true cuban bass" by Carlos Del Puerto is the best starting place. I encourage students interested in learning jazz to have at least the first volume of "The Real Book" 5th or 6th edition, preferably the first 3 volumes.