Lessons · Bass
Bass lessons in Santa Barbara
The seat every band in town is trying to fill.
Bass is the most in-demand chair in any band — and one of the most rewarding to learn. It gets you playing with other people faster than almost anything, and our band program means you'll actually put it to use.
What you'll learn
- Groove, timing, and locking in with a drummer
- Reading bass lines and finding the root
- Playing by ear and holding a song together
- Stepping into a real band through our program
Styles: Rock, funk, jazz, and pop.
Who teaches bass
All ages and levels.
Your first lesson is free
Free first lesson: you'll feel what it's like to hold down a groove — the pulse that makes a song move — on day one.
Why learn at Detar
A real recording studio
Every room is treated and mic'd — students learn where records actually get made, not a strip-mall practice room.
A band to play in
Our band program puts students together for real rehearsals and a show at a Santa Barbara venue — the fastest way to fall in love with playing.
Then you record it
Advanced students cut their own tracks in the studio with founder Gus DeTar — the journey from first lesson to finished song, under one roof.
Bass lessons — common questions
How much do bass lessons cost in Santa Barbara?
Bass lessons at Detar Music Studios are $70 for 30 minutes, $100 for 45 minutes, and $130 for 60 minutes, weekly. The first trial lesson is free and there is no registration fee.
Who teaches bass at Detar Music Studios?
Alex Detar and Gus DeTar teach bass at Detar. They're working musicians who gig and record, not a rotating cast of college kids.
What age can you start bass lessons?
All ages and levels. We'll match the student to a teacher who suits their age and goals.
What styles of bass do you teach?
Rock, funk, jazz, and pop. Lessons are built around the music the student actually wants to play.
What happens in the first bass lesson?
Free first lesson: you'll feel what it's like to hold down a groove — the pulse that makes a song move — on day one.
Explore other instruments
Ready to start bass?
Your first lesson is free.
Thirty minutes, no commitment, no registration fee — just come play.
Book a free trial lesson146 Powers Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93103 · (805) 280-5439