Business Details
37 Years
experience
Expert Piano and Bass Lessons in Wichita, KS
I am David James, a dedicated music educator with 46 years of playing experience and 34 years of teaching expertise in piano and double bass. My studio in Wichita, Kansas, offers personalized lessons for students aged 4 to 82, blending classical repertoire with improvisation to foster creativity and technical proficiency. I pioneered online lessons via Skype, enabling global access to music education, and emphasize practical learning through real-time feedback and adaptable teaching methods. My home studio provides a welcoming environment for in-person lessons, complemented by flexible scheduling and a commitment to nurturing musical growth. With a career spanning orchestral performances, jazz gigs, and educational roles, I bring a wealth of knowledge to every lesson, ensuring students develop both skill and passion for music.
Services
Piano Lessons
Bass Lessons
Online Lessons
Improvisation Instruction
Classical Repertoire Training
Served areas
- Wichita, KS
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer 34 years of specialized music instruction tailored to individual learning styles.
- Our curriculum uniquely integrates improvisation with classical training for creative growth.
- Online lessons via Skype provide global access to quality music education.
- Home studio environment fosters comfortable, focused learning for all ages.
- Proven success teaching students from 4 to 82 with diverse musical goals.
Associations and certifications
- International Society of Bassists
- American String Teachers Association
- Wichita Area Piano Teachers League
Services
Piano Lessons
Personalized piano instruction for all skill levels, focusing on classical technique and improvisation. Lessons emphasize music theory, sight-reading, and performance skills. Students gain confidence through structured curriculum and creative exploration.
Bass Lessons
Comprehensive double bass and electric bass instruction covering classical, jazz, and contemporary styles. Curriculum includes fingerboard technique, rhythm development, and ensemble playing. Students learn to adapt skills across musical genres.
Online Lessons
Skype-based music lessons offering global access to piano and bass education. Real-time feedback and interactive learning tools maintain engagement. Ideal for remote students or weather-related scheduling conflicts.
Improvisation Instruction
Specialized training in musical improvisation techniques, blending theory with spontaneous composition. Students learn jazz, rock, and blues styles while developing unique artistic expression within structured frameworks.
Classical Repertoire Training
In-depth study of classical piano and bass literature, focusing on interpretation and technical mastery. Students explore works from Baroque to modern eras, building a strong foundation in traditional performance practices.
People
David James
Owner/Instructor
Music educator with 46 years of playing experience and 34 years teaching piano and bass. Specializes in improvisation techniques and classical training for students aged 4-82.
Marta Prugar-James
Music Partner
Violinist with the Wichita Symphony and co-founder of musical duo Clazzy. Collaborates on event performances and supports music instruction initiatives.
Questions
What instruments do you teach?
I specialize in piano and double bass lessons, including electric bass instruction.
Do you offer online lessons?
Yes, I provide Skype-based piano and bass lessons for remote students worldwide.
What teaching methods do you use?
I combine classical repertoire with improvisation techniques to develop technical skill and creativity.
How long are the lessons?
Lesson durations are customized to student needs, with flexible scheduling options available.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payments accepted include cash, checks, PayPal, credit, and debit cards.
Reviews (8)
Sybil Kaspar
Jul 19, 2021
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We first started receiving bass lessons from David in 2002 with my oldest son, Jordon, who now is the Band and Orchestra Teacher at North High. My youngest son, Adrion, also receives bass/piano lessons from David! David is very passionate about music and shares the joy with others! He is very patient and goes out of his way to accommodate his students. I would highly recommend David for any age student, who would like to learn piano/bass!
Ami Larrea
Mar 08, 2021
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If you are looking for lessons from a talented teacher, look no further! He does a great job to help you learn while having fun. He will start with you whatever level you are at and helps you improve in a number of areas no matter what you want to work on improving. I love that he introduces me to new music, genres, composers. My son took lessons from him and now I am taking lessons. I would recommend him to anyone and everyone of all ages!
Dawn Starnes
Mar 06, 2021
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DJ is great and professional. Easy to work with and excellent with young children. My oldest son began lessons at 7 and my younger son at 5, now 13 and 7. DJ communication with the young student and patients with different levels of students is why I would recommend him anyone.
Kevin Brown
Jan 26, 2021
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David has been my piano coach for three years. I started with him when I was 59 years old. I had no music background. He has worked with me and motivated me to want to become the best I can be. I have had considerable improvement and I am proud of how far I have come. Thank you David.
Thess Haws
Nov 21, 2020
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My daughter has taken piano lessons from him for the past 14 years. Ever since then he has always been very patient and kind throughout all of these years. Thanks to his great teaching she has even received division I ratings at Kansas music festivals for her abilities in high school. I could not recommend a better teacher for her. He is very knowledgeable in his musical abilities and does a great job of passing on his talent to his students.
Kelli Grant
Oct 24, 2020
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My son loved taking bass lessons from David. He grew as a musician a great deal with David's instruction. I would recommend David to any musician wanting to improve on the piano or bass.
Holly Donaldson
David is an amazing piano teacher. My 7 year old son has blossomed since he began lessons with David. He is patient, kind and a great role model! Couldn't be happier!
Cherie Rodriguez
Luis is an older student who just started piano last spring. Anyone who has an older child who has an interest in music but may be shy starting so "late" should make time to visit David. He communicates well with all ages and Luis is very comfortable in the environment even though the little kids and their skills are intimidating at times.