Bass Lessons in Astoria Queens, New York

Electric Bass Guitar Lessons

Contact me for in-person or online bass lessons at dan@xofwandsmusic.com.

Hi! I'm Dan. As of 2026, I'm based in Astoria Queens, New York near Ditmars Boulevard. I have been teaching bass lessons in the area for 4 years now and love being able to help students develop their bass talents and deepen their relationship with music.

My bass lessons are always personalized to your goals and interests. I seek to create a low-pressure, friendly environment where you can feel comfortable to communicate, learn, and enjoy playing music. That doesn't mean you won't be challenged, but musicians sound their best not when they're stressed about 'sounding good' but when they're grooving and in tune with their art - Think 'effortless mastery.' My experience to date has primarily been in working with teens, young adults, as well as more experienced folks 🙂 Read on to learn more about my background or contact me now to get started!

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   Ricardo Mondestin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been taking bass lessons from Dan for 6 months and it’s been great.I can see real progress in my playing, techniques, counting and rhythm. Dan is very patient, encouraging and professional when teaching. The place is well organized, clean and good lighting which makes it easier to learn. One and one lessons, good vibe and affordable. I will highly recommend Dan to anyone who would like to improve their playing skills.
  
 
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   Chris Knaff 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dan is both a great bass player and an excellent teacher. He maintains the fundamentals while helping you grow as a musician at your pace and within your interests. Highly recommend Dan no matter where you are on your bass playing journey.
  
 
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   Andrew Toutain 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I inherited a Fender Jazz Bass from my father last year and had no idea where to start. Fortunately, I found Dan as an instructor. He taught me not just the mechanics of the instrument, but also how to approach practice, how to let go, and how not to worry about getting things “wrong.”’ His teaching style strikes a great balance between structure and being student-centered. He’s always prepared for lessons and consistently follows up with personalized notes. Dan also encouraged me to explore the aspects of bass playing that interested me most. In just nine months, I’ve developed solid technique and tone, and I’ve learned a lot about music theory and rhythm. Plus, he’s a phenomenal bass player! Highly recommend!
  
 
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   Mikaela Charalambous 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dan is truly an amazing teacher. Super patient, knowledgeable, very skilled and very helpful. I've always felt very insecure about playing music because of the idea that some people "have it" or they don't, and it made me afraid to learn and make mistakes, but one of the reasons I'm more willing and happy to play now is because of all of his support (and I played upright bass in school for 6 years!!) Also, considering I have the practice discipline of a wet napkin, I still feel like I've improved a lot just from our lessons alone--which are super reasonably priced, accessible, and usually one of the highlights of my week :) thanks Dan!!!
  
 
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   E 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I got my girlfriend a starter bass to encourage bringing music back into her life. By itself it's nothing, but with Dan it truly became an instrument of self improvement, self confidence, and passion. She comes back from every lesson encouraged to continue, and a little less self conscious every time.
  
 
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   homeowner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dan's bass playing and understanding is definitely something to admire and having him as my bass teacher has helped me improved dramatically.  I've been taking bass lessons with Dan since December and he has helped me improve with things like tone, music theory, tabs, understanding grooves, and really just anything I ask for help with.  He consistently encourages me and always shows me the best way for me as a bass player to be just that much better.  Overall I don't think I would be anywhere near where I am now If I didn't reach out to Dan.  10/10 and turned into a really good friend!
  
 
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   Rachel Boeglin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dan is an incredible teacher! I can't recommend enough. I'm a beginner player with some music theory knowledge, and he makes a point to meet me where I'm at. Dan makes full use of the entire lesson time, and puts a lot of emphasis on proper form in order to prevent tension/injury (which I really appreciate)! Beyond the lessons themselves, he keeps thorough notes of what we worked on, and what I should practice going into the next week. Truly above and beyond. I'm so thankful to have found an amazing local teacher!
  
 
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   Kristal Munoz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve always wanted to learn the bass and finally decided to take lessons Jan 2023.  Dan’s instruction is easy to follow and breaks down every lesson to its smallest step.  You are able to really learn the basics and scale up.  Dan is patient and I always look forward to my weekly lesson.
  
 
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   santino tranchese 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Found Dan online searching for a  Bass Instructor for my 16 yr old son who has some previous lesson’s under his belt. Dan is a great Teacher Young, Polite and Studious with one on one instruction. Private house and parking always available. Our Travel to his place is a 20 minute ride to Astoria. We cannot be happier! 🎸🎼🎸
  
 
  
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My Experience

I have a B.S. in Music from the University at Albany (2014). At U Albany, I was a music theory teaching assistant for 2 years and graduated summa cum laude with an additional degree in Business Administration. At the end of 2021, I won first place in a national bass solo competition. In addition, I have a YouTube channel with over 150,000 views and an endorsement with La Bella Strings.

Since moving from Rockland to New York City in 2016, I have played in live bands in and around the city to sold out shows. Some stages include Mercury Lounge, Arlene's Grocery, Webster Hall, Music Hall of Williamsburg, and a few boats 🙂

I have played bass since I was 9 years old, and have been in bands ranging from school jazz bands and orchestras to rock, ska, metal, funk, marching bands, and everything in between. These days, I play with a few different original groups (check out Sourbox and let me know what you think!), cover bands, and am working on innovative solo bass material. I'm always looking for the next big challenge.

My Approach as a Bass Teacher

Whether you would like to learn specific songs, start writing your own bass lines, or just start playing, our lessons will always be personalized to your goals. I am happy to teach fun techniques like slap bass, tapping, sweeping, harmonic bends, and the like. I would also recommend exercises for developing your groove and deepening that pocket! I can teach basic to advanced music theory, ear training, walking basslines, bass solo techniques, and how to write a great bassline to anything. Reach out and we will prioritize what You value most!

To get started, please let me know who the lessons are for, the student's experience level, your goals, and any questions I can help address! Prior to our first lesson, we can set up a trial session to go over more details and make sure you feel like it's a good fit before moving forward. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you!

Contact Me