Business Details
Expert Piano & Bass Lessons in Wichita, KS
David James Piano & Bass Studio has been dedicated to nurturing musical talent in Wichita, KS, since its founding. With 34 years of teaching experience and 46 years of instrumental expertise, the studio specializes in piano and double/electric bass instruction for students aged 4 to 82. The curriculum uniquely integrates classical repertoire with improvisation training, a rare offering that empowers students to excel in jazz, rock, and other contemporary genres.Located in a dedicated home studio with modern amenities, the business also pioneered online lessons via Skype in 2011, enabling global access to instruction. The owner's extensive background includes performing with the US Army Band, directing All District musicals, and teaching at universities, ensuring a comprehensive educational approach grounded in both practical and theoretical knowledge.
Services
Piano Lessons
Bass Lessons
Online Lessons
Music Theory
Improvisation Training
Highlights and features
- We offer 34 years of specialized music instruction experience.
- Our curriculum uniquely integrates improvisation with classical training.
- We provide both in-person and online lesson options.
- Our home studio accommodates focused learning environments.
- We accept flexible payment methods including digital transactions.
What people say
Patient teaching style
Excellent improvisation instruction
Flexible scheduling options
Knowledgeable instructor
Supportive learning environment
Services
Piano Lessons
Private piano lessons cater to all skill levels from beginners to advanced students. The curriculum combines classical repertoire with improvisation techniques, fostering musical creativity while maintaining technical proficiency. Lessons emphasize reading notation, rhythm, and performance skills in a dedicated home studio environment.
Bass Lessons
Double and electric bass instruction focuses on foundational techniques and genre-specific applications. Students learn proper posture, fingerboard navigation, and rhythmic precision while exploring jazz, rock, and classical styles. The program accommodates physical limitations through adjustable instrument sizing for younger students.
Online Lessons
Skype-based lessons provide remote access to instruction using specialized camera angles for technique demonstration. This service accommodates rural students, frequent travelers, and inclement weather scenarios while maintaining interactive feedback through digital platforms. Technical support ensures optimal audio-visual quality during sessions.
Music Theory
Integrated theory instruction covers notation reading, rhythm patterns, and harmonic structures essential for musical proficiency. Students develop sight-reading abilities and compositional skills through practical application during instrument lessons, enhancing overall musical understanding and performance capabilities.
Improvisation Training
Specialized improvisation curriculum teaches spontaneous composition techniques across multiple genres. Students learn to apply music theory concepts practically while developing personal expression in jazz, rock, and contemporary styles, distinguishing this program from traditional classical-focused instruction methods.
People
David James
Owner/Instructor
David James has 46 years of instrumental experience and 34 years of teaching expertise. He studied at Emporia State University and has performed with the US Army Band and Salina Symphony. His teaching career includes university positions and directing All District musicals.
Marta Prugar-James
Performer
Marta Prugar-James is a violinist with the Wichita Symphony and performs with David in the duo 'Clazzy'. She collaborates musically while supporting the studio's educational mission through performance demonstrations and ensemble coaching.
Questions
What are your lesson rates?
Monthly lessons cost $90, averaging $22.50 per half-hour session. This covers 4 lessons monthly with adjustments for months with 5 scheduled sessions.
Do you offer online instruction?
Yes, we provide Skype lessons with specialized camera angles for technique demonstration. A 15-minute free trial is available to test the technology.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, credit/debit cards, and PayPal. Digital payments incur a 2.9% + $0.30 processing fee.
What is your cancellation policy?
We allow 1 makeup lesson per fall session and 2 per spring session with advance notice. Unexcused absences receive no refunds or makeups.
At what age can children start lessons?
Piano lessons begin at age 4 with basic counting and alphabet skills. Bass instruction typically starts later due to instrument size requirements.
How long does learning take?
Musical proficiency develops over years, with noticeable progress in 2-3 years. We emphasize lifelong learning rather than fixed timelines for skill acquisition.
