Bass Lessons

From bass teacher Jeanette Welch: Bass players are a breed apart. We lug around these big hunks of wood and endure people asking, “Don’t you wish you played the piccolo?” No, I don’t. What I love about the bass is its wide range of pitch; but most importantly, the deep sound is what drew me to it. You can feel it in your bones. We’re the backbone of all types of music, be it symphonic, jazz, rock, country western etc. I play all types of music (well maybe not country…) and encourage my students to do the same.

The Preucil School owns three basses, the smallest of which is 1/4 size. We also have a 1/2 size and a 3/4- size. In the bass world, a 3/4 size is considered the most typical size. Unless you are taller than 6 feet, you can’t handle a 7/8 or full size bass. In recent years, basses as small as 1/10 size have become available. Our young students begin with a 1/2 size cello strung with electric bass strings. Reck Violin Shop, Schultz Strings, and West Music are good sources for rent or purchase.

Student, parent and teacher have a lot of fun in lessons where new ideas are explored and incorporated into the learning process. The bass is an excellence choice for students wishing to add a second instrument and expand their musical experience.

When you and your child have decided to take bass lessons at the Preucil School of Music, please fill out the placement form below.  For additional information on the enrollment process, please refer to the Enrollment section of this website.

Other Opportunities

A  full range of complementary group and performance opportunities enriches each student’s study. Your teacher will recommend the best choices for your ability and interest level.

Orchestras

Available for violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, flute, harp.

The orchestra experience provided by the Preucil School is an essential companion to the student’s weekly lesson and integral part of our comprehensive musical training.  It motivates students as they expand their technical, reading, and musical skills; allowing the student to expand their musical experience and fellowship.

>more

Chamber Music

Available for violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, flute, harp, voice.

Chamber music is a form of classical music written for a small group of instruments that can be performed in a palace chamber or other intimate setting. Ensembles range in size from two to eight, typically without solo performance, one performer to a part. The Preucil School offers many chamber opportunities, each allowing students the opportunity for music and social collaboration.

>more

Performance Opportunities

Available for violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, flute, harp, voice.

The Preucil School schedules a wide array of recital and concerts each year, many based on achievement of a Suzuki curriculum landmark. These opportunities allow the performer to master performance requirements, gain confidence and motivate fellow students and audience members.

>more

Certificate Program

Available for violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, flute, harp.

The Certificate Program challenges each student to read, write, and hear the language of music with a high level of literacy. This tuition-free program for high school students includes intensive study in theory and musicianship, keyboard, and chamber music in addition to regular lessons and orchestra membership.

>more

Master Classes

Available for violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, flute, harp, voice.

At times when nationally recognized artists visit the Iowa City area, the Preucil School offers its students the opportunity to experience master classes. In a master class, a respected artist works with one student or a small group, providing a learning opportunity for performers and observers.

>more

Bass Faculty

Jeanette Welch

X