Jim Clark Music Studios

EUREKA--I've discovered gold. I noticed an old bass guitar that had been sitting in my cellar since Christmas 1982 that was untouched and I decided one day out of the blue that I wanted to learn to play. I bought a "Bass Guitar for Dummies" book and brother I must have been a dummy, because it's nearly impossible to learn an instrument from a 300 page book. I decided that the only way to learn was not with a book or some guy on a YouTube video demo, but to study with a teacher. I heard about some other studios, but they just didn't seem to have a program that interested or challenged me...I wanted to seriously learn to play, I mean really learn the instrument and not just get thrown up on a stage playing mediocre music. I actually physically made just one call to one studio..Jim Clark..just to inquire about lessons and his passion over the phone convinced me that he would be the "chosen one" and I called back the next day to sign up. Waiting for my first lesson was like waiting for Christmas to arrive and it seems like every week since then I get a new present in the form of his wisdom and individual style of teaching. My ambivalence in writing this review is that I feel as though I discovered a gold mine right in my own backyard and selfishly want to keep this hidden gem to myself. At the same time, I want to stand out in the middle of Main Street and like one of the California miners scream that I found gold and open the flood gates for everyone else to rush in. In less than 6 months time I went from knowing absolutely nothing to learning a few songs and eventually now playing Sir Duke by Stevie Wonder and preparing for a blues jam session. Sure, it's great that I can play a couple of songs, and I'm sure I would have learned a couple of songs somewhere else also, but one of the differences is the quality of my playing. The other, equally as important, is that I also am learning not only the theory behind the bass but the rhythm of music--to quote Mr. Stevie Wonder "Just because a record has a groove, Don't more

Take it from a parent who knows, Jim Clark is a rare find. Jim’s unique teaching style which balances discipline and fun really works. My 2 sons, Dan and Kenny, both take lessons from Jim. Dan plays guitar and Kenny plays bass and both boys truly enjoy playing their instruments. The progress that Dan and Kenny have made in such a short amount of time is incredible. I’m impressed not only by their talent, but also by the passion and enthusiasm they have for playing their instruments. And I’m not the only one that’s impressed. Friends have asked Dan and Kenny where they take lessons and have switched over to Jim after giving up on prior instructors. I think a big part of Dan and Kenny’s success stems from the great respect they have for Jim both as a teacher and a musician. Jim emphasizes proper technique and the importance of theory. His teaching style interweaves so many facets of guitar playing, and music in general. At the same time, Jim knows how to keep things fun with his sense of humor, and by teaching Dan and Ken songs and techniques that they want to play and learn. Jim has introduced them to so many music styles and genres that they might not have otherwise been interested in. Jim Clark goes out of his way to make every lesson a positive experience! more

I have been taking lessons from Jim Clark for years now, and every time I walk into his studio, I learn something new. His patience and understanding is unbelievable, and his knowledge will simply awe you. No matter your interest - be it rock and metal, or jazz or funk, Jim Clark will teach you everything you need to know to become a musician. Highly recommended! more

If you are looking for excellent instruction, this is the place. Jim is a great teacher! I have learned how to become a musican. He is exceptionally talented in teaching, playing, and making sure his student fully understands. He is a true master of the guitar and plays every style and genre. I have been a student of his for quite some time and have learned to play classical, blues, jazz and finger style on the guitar. He has also taught me to play bass guitar. I'm honored to be his student! more