Teaching
“Tarik Shah is a great performer and educator who thoughtfully cares about the people around him. His insight has been invaluable to me personally, and I can see how he has a similar impact on others. Whether his students are complete beginners or total pros he is able to help them lean into their strengths and find the cracks that seem to be holding them back. I have quickly been able to incorporate new techniques and a fresh perspective on my inner ear into my own playing, which has led me to feel more excited about playing music with other people! And you can hear Tarik’s methods permeate through his own playing; he really practices what he preaches and it is an engaging experience to find him performing live.”
Tarik Shah is known for his uncanny ability to communicate his passion for music as well as his extensive knowledge of the double bass and bass guitar. A strong basic background in scales, intervals, chord spelling, harmony and phrasing is where he begins, while fostering a love for swing, feel and groove in whatever type of music his students wish to explore.
Tarik offers private instruction on the double bass and bass guitar to students at all levels of proficiency … from beginners to professionals. For players using electric instruments, Tarik is highly versed in the ever-expanding world of gear and accessories that can enhance the student’s playing experience.
As one who is well-versed in the historical underpinnings of jazz, funk, fusion and the evolution of the bass, Tarik loves to share his knowledge with larger groups of students in a lecture format.
If you’re interested in booking a private lesson or a lecture presentation with Tarik, click here to contact him.
Student & Parent Testimonials
“Our son Ben started taking lessons with Tarik Shah earlier this year. In a very short period of time, Tarik has had a tremendous impact on Ben as a bass player and as a musician. Tarik’s knowledge, experience, and thought-provoking teaching style have given Ben true insight into his musical journey. He has learned that playing the bass is a good fit for his personality and he credits Tarik with helping him acquire a mindset that allows him to think deeply about what it means to play the instrument. Tarik is generous with his time and expertise during lessons. He also shares opportunities for Ben to see him perform in a variety of venues and styles; these windows into musical life are motivating and inspiring! We are thankful to have connected with such an accomplished and giving musician.”
“Tarik has both performed and studied with a plethora of world-class musicians and he brings that experience into his lessons. Not only is he a clear and concise teacher, but he always has a great answer to my questions and enthusiasm for teaching. The exercises he has given me to work on outside of our lessons are so deep that I feel like he is still teaching me when I practice on my own. He is a wealth of knowledge in music theory, technique, equipment, and history across many styles.”
“Tarik is a wonderful teacher – extremely knowledgeable, with a deep love of music. He has been teaching my daughter electric bass for two years. He goes the extra mile to help her develop both strong technique and a passion for music. She enjoys studying with him.”