Work With Karyn 

My passion is making music and I love playing the bass. I have 35 years of experience teaching jazz and am excited to help you or your group groove and grow!

Hire me for an hour, a day, or a multi-day residency!  Contact me to learn more about scheduling time to work with you and your students.

“Karyn’s down to earth style is a perfect match for beginning and advanced bassists.  Having her as a visiting clinician at the Fond du Lac Jazz Clinic has been one of the best decisions we have made for developing young bassists in Southeastern Wisconsin!”
 – Matt McVeigh, Director of Bands, Fond du Lac High School

Types of Workshops

Bass Workshop

Bass Workshop

I play both classical and jazz bass and can work with your bass section or individual students.

 

Example Topics:

  • Left hand technique
  • Getting a good sound
  • Arco and pizzicato technique
  • Bow strokes
  • Developing walking bass lines
  • Playing a groove in various styles
  • The benefit of scales & arpeggios
Rhythm Section

Rhythm Section

I specialize in playing all rhythm section instruments and can help your students define their roles and functions to create the best groove for your ensemble.

Example Topics:

  •     Drum set – ups and fills
  •     Balancing the drum kit
  •     Time concepts
  •     Piano voicings & comping
  •     Guitar voicings & comping
  •     Interpreting written charts
Full Ensemble

Full Ensemble

Or, maybe you want me work with your combo,  jazz band or show choir band.

 

Example Topics:

  • Ensemble style & articulation
  • Blend & Balance
  • Listening – how to and what to listen for
  • Improvisation
  • Time & Groove
  • Developing musicality

I know that your ensemble rehearsal time is limited so bring me in to assist you and get the most out of your group!

 

 

 

Karyn is a master of all aspects of the rhythm section, and any director would do well to employ her to work with their students. Her years of experience in front of a band uniquely qualify Karyn to supply an “extra set of ears” to help groups prepare for concerts or competitions. She is quick to identify areas for improvement, but never loses sight of the real reasons we play jazz music. Her infectious, positive attitude makes the experience of music-making fun and joyful for everyone she comes in contact with.
Dr. Rich MacDonald, Director of Jazz Studies and Percussion, Winona State University