Bass Lessons for Kids and Adults in Seattle

Whether you’re a kid drawn to the low end or an adult looking to finally learn to hold down the groove, our teachers meet you where you are. Meter Music School offers private electric and upright bass lessons at two Seattle studios — the Central District and Columbia City — for complete beginners through advanced players, across rock, jazz, and classical styles.

What to Expect in a Bass Lesson

Lessons run 30, 45, or 60 minutes, once a week. Your teacher builds a plan around the music you actually want to play — rock, jazz, funk, classical, or a mix — rather than a fixed curriculum everyone follows the same way. Lessons can include technique, groove and timing, reading, upright-specific skills like bowing, and music theory, depending on your instrument and goals.

Electric or Upright?

Most students start on electric bass, especially younger beginners, since it’s smaller and more familiar from popular music. Upright (double) bass is a different physical instrument with its own technique, common in jazz and classical settings — a great option if that’s the sound and style you’re drawn to.

A note on upright bass: because upright bass calls for a specialist teacher, availability can depend on current staffing at each studio. We recommend reaching out directly to check current upright bass availability before enrolling, and we’re happy to help you find the right fit either way.

When to Start

There’s no single starting age for bass — it varies more by the individual student’s hand size and interest than most instruments. There’s no upper limit on the other end. A meaningful share of our bass students are adults, some picking up the instrument for the first time, others returning to it after years away.

Adult Bass Students

If you’re an adult considering lessons, you’re not the exception here. Adult students learn differently than kids — lessons tend to move at a faster pace and lean more on the music and goals you bring in, whether that’s finally joining a band, playing along to your favorite records, or building real technique.

Meet the Bass Teachers

Our bass teachers play across electric and upright, rock, jazz, and classical styles. See current bass teachers and their availability →

From Our Google Reviews

“As parents who don’t play music, the Meter school made it so easy for us to come into the fold. Highly recommend!” -Jessica K.

“My daughter has attended Meter Music School in the Central District for years and has loved all of her teachers.” -Kris B.

“The teachers here are wonderful. Communication with staff is easy.” -Yumi P.

Our Studios

Central District — 2110 E Union St, Seattle, WA 98122

Columbia City — 4435 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118

Both studios have dedicated practice rooms — a space to focus on your playing that’s often hard to find at home. Families and adult students from Madrona, Leschi, Capitol Hill, Mt. Baker, Hillman City, Seward Park, and Beacon Hill study with us at one location or the other, whichever is the shorter drive.

Common Questions

Do I need my own bass to start? Yes, though your teacher can help you figure out the right fit — electric or upright, and what to look for — once you know what you’re interested in playing.

Is upright bass always available? Because it requires a specialist teacher, upright bass availability can vary by studio and season. Contact us directly to check current availability before enrolling.

How much are lessons? See our Tuition & Fees page →

Can I switch between bass and another instrument later? Yes! Students can change to a different instrument or a different teacher at any time. You can make these changes in your portal or work with our front desk staff to go over the options.

What if I need to reschedule? See our School Policies page →