Bass Lessons with Surf

Get Out of rehearsal and onto the stage!

Mark “Surf” Rowe - Bassist / Instructor in Nampa, Idaho

Are you just starting to learn how to play? Or do you need to develop your skills so you can excel with a band? I can help get you there!

I approach bass from a performer’s standpoint - it’s not just about playing bass, it’s also about how to be a bassist. My goal is to help you become a confident and skilled player who is capable of performing and recording in a rock, blues or country music environment. I want to know what you are interested in learning. I don’t teach students theory or to read sheet music, I teach you how to play by ear.

Unlike many music instructors, I teach bass only, no other instruments. Many local instructors are guitarists who teach bass as a sideline. Playing bass really is different! Guitarists focus on playing chords, melodies and solos whereas bassists focus on groove, foundation and energy. Bass is a different instrument, a different mindset, and it attracts a different type of personality.

Whether you play fingerstyle or with a pick, it's all good. I started fingerstyle then switched to playing with a pick so I teach both techniques. Playing and singing at the same time can be really tough for a bassist because the melody of a song often has completely different phrasing than the bass line. I'll share the tips and tricks I use to significantly speed up and simplify the process.

A little about me: I have been playing bass and performing lead / backing vocals for decades in many original and cover bands, logging well over 2,000 gigs. I’ve produced two bassist compilation albums plus performed in two live concert DVDs with my bands. Since 2012 I have served as a bass demonstrator and performing artist at eight international music industry trade shows in Los Angeles and Nashville, and played shows from Las Vegas to British Columbia. Plus since 2003 I have been the managing editor of the 12-String Bass Encyclopedia, so if you want to test your skill with multi-string 8-string or 12-string basses, you’ve come to the right place!

Lessons are given at my home in southwest Nampa. Just bring your bass, I have amps. I charge $20.00 for a 30-minute lesson. Please email me at surf12stringbass@gmail.com for more information.