"Playing music has to be fun"

By combining reading and ear exercises, I make sure the learning styles of all students are covered. For the strong readers, I like to encourage them to listen – to use their ear to really hear what is happening in the music.  

For the play-by-ear students, I challenge that innate ability and encourage them to look at the notes and see what is there, and where to find it on the fretboard, or the keyboard.  

I like to start with a foundation in jazz and traditional music, then let my students tell me what they are interested in, and what they want to play.

Previous teaching experience includes Music Appreciation, Jazz and Bass courses at Miami Dade College, and  FAU. 

Playing experience includes Principal Bassist and a featured soloist with the Palm Beach Pops, and the Assistant Principal Bassist with the Miami City Ballet for many years. 

For more about Don, please visit his website:  www.donwilner.com