Jeff (he/him) grew up in a musical household, singing and playing guitar with his family's gospel/folk musical group which toured throughout Minnesota and Ontario. He later studied with classical guitar maestro Jeffrey Van at the University of Minnesota. After completing a Masters in Music, he fell in love with jazz, studying with bassist Anthony Cox and later with Dennis Irwin and Cameron Brown in New York.
Jeff's playing has been featured in collaborations with TUDance, Consortium Carissimi, the Bakken Trio, and the Orchestra Hall Atrium Jazz Ensemble. For nearly a decade, Jeff was bassist for Jazz in the Lobby Bar at the historic St Paul Hotel. He has recorded several albums with his group Sidewalk Cafe and with singer JoAnn Funk. He performs regularly as a freelancer throughout Minnesota on guitar and bass.
Jeff's passion in teaching students of all ages for over 30 years has been to share the joy of dedication to an instrument. His skills in modern improvisatory music (jazz, rock) coupled with a classical background allow him a unique ability to impart to students a broad musical understanding of their instrument. His experience makes the lesson time productive yet age-appropriate, and his down to earth personality makes lessons fun!
When not performing or teaching, Jeff directs his church choir and tunes and regulates pianos. He and his family enjoy exploring nature with their rescue dog and searching for architectural gems throughout the state.
Jeff teaches on MONDAYS and has open slots available now!