Student Objectives

Students will learn technique, rhythm, musical phrasing, and basic theory on a high level, while gaining an appreciation for standard double bass and orchestral repertoire. Students are expected to audition for All-Region Orchestra, and when applicable, All-State Orchestra. Students are also expected to perform a Solo each year.

Over the course of a school year, students will be taught scales and technique, a series of solo pieces, and several orchestra excerpts from major symphonic works in the orchestral literature. Lessons are tailored to each student, progressing in difficulty gradually to add skills to the student’s arsenal. Mr. Casey makes use of the George Vance series, Andy Moritz’s Scale Skills, and technique books by Petracchi, Simandl, and Rabbath. He also provides material he creates for students as needed.

Mr. Casey’s goal is that by the time a student graduates high school, they have an appreciation for a variety of styles of orchestral music, and have performed a variety of solos and orchestral works. Students will also gain the ability to audition for music school for college, should they decide to choose that route.

Scheduling

Lessons are offered Tuesdays through Saturdays, with lessons each week of the school year. For the 2024-25 school year, Mr. Casey’s studio will be following the Bethel School District schedule. Students are expected to attend their lesson each week. Should a student not be able to attend a lesson due to illness or prior commitment, please provide at least 24 hours notice. Mr. Casey offers Zoom lessons for students located more than an hour from his studio, as well as in cases of inclement weather.

Payment

Students may sign up for either 30 minute lessons (Half Hour) or 60 minute lessons (Hour Long). Payment for the month is due at the first lesson of each month via cash, check, Zelle, or Venmo. Lessons are month to month, and can be cancelled at the end of each month. For Zoom lessons, payment must be received before the start of the lesson. Mr. Casey works with students and parents to design a lesson schedule that best fits the needs of the student and their family. Please contact for rates.