Sam is a phenomenal Instructor. You can not find a better, more effective teacher in the area…read more I've been working with him for about 9 months. I've been drumming for 15 years. I've played in active bands in a variety of genres (pop, rock, jazz, metal, fusion etc...). I've done a music theory degree, and studied music both a serious industry member (live audio reinforcement) and as a performer. I can say, without any doubts, that Sam has been one of the greatest musical mentor's I've ever had the pleasure of working with. His knowledge of musical genres is unparalleled - he can seamlessly move between contemporary pop, classic jazz, world music (afro-cuban, afrobeat etc..) and more, all the while giving deep insights into the musical relationships between them. Sam's technical skill is exceptional, and his ability to distill complex techniques which he's refined over the course of years into small teachable lessons is exquisite. He possess the ability to identify strengths and weaknesses in a performer, and can use that insight to drive your development forward in ways which will truly expand your playing. Sam possess a calm, friendly personality that creates a comfortable, safe environment in which to learn. When working with him I feel like I am part of a team dedicated to furthering my musical development. His attitude is one of always looking forward for ways to improve while focusing on making lessons fun and engaging. As a drummer of over a decade, who had recently sought to push himself to new levels, Sam has been everything I had hoped to find in a teacher.

I've been taking drum lessons with Sam Esecson for well over a year now - and while he works mostly…read morewith younger students, Sam is a great teacher for adults as well. In particular, he helped me move from getting down the basics on my own to being comfortable playing in several different live band and group situations. I'd recommend him not only for kids and novice adult students, but also for more experienced drummers looking to improve their hand technique, their musical feel (especially in jazz and latin), and their dynamics and finesse. His studio is large so it never feels cramped and set up so it's not super-loud during a lesson, which is a bonus!

I have been working with Pascal for just over a year and I cannot speak highly enough of Pascal as…read morea guitar instructor. He is not only an exceptionally skilled musician but also an excellent teacher who has transformed my playing in just a short matter of time. Pascal can easily and clearly explain material and concepts, often approaching things from multiple angles to ensure complete understanding. Whether we're working on lead guitar techniques, rhythm guitar fundamentals, or diving into music theory, he maintains a strong balance that keeps lessons engaging and comprehensive. His teaching style is also approachable and professional, which has helped create an environment where I feel comfortable asking questions and pushing myself to improve (something I was nervous about, having never played guitar previously). Although I was at first hesitant about the commitment of in-person lessons, I have also really grown to appreciate the fact that lessons are in-person. Pascal has an eye for detail and a very well-trained ear, which allows him to provide real-time adjustments on everything from basic technique to nuanced elements like the way in which the pick is being held, thumb position, hand placement, and arm angles, etc. I believe these types of corrections that would be difficult to identify on my own (again, having no prior experience), and would likely not come through in most online/recorded lessons. These small refinements have made a large difference in my playing ability, to the point where even minor adjustments (like a slight adjustment to wrist angle) allow me to play a chord or a progression that I was struggling to play on my own during practice. As others have commented, I would also recommend double lessons, which I find to give me a great amount of items to work on before my next lesson. On a personal note, I genuinely look forward to my lessons with Pascal. Pascal's enthusiasm and encouragement have motivated me to practice consistently and focus on development in ways I do not believe I would have if I were learning independently. I also do not feel pressured if I have a busy week and have not been able to dedicate as much time to the material (although that rarely happens, as I enjoy the material so much). My wife has even commented on how much progress I've made in such a short time (she likes listening to me now). As someone who firmly believes you get what you pay for, I can say without hesitation that Pascal is worth every penny. If you're looking for a guitar instructor who will genuinely invest in your growth as a musician, Pascal is an excellent choice.

If you want to be able to pick up a guitar and confidently turn the music in your head into…read morereality, Pascal will get you there. He has the experience, skill, and patience to tailor each of his lessons to provide meaningful and rewarding progress towards your musical goals and, in my case, beyond what I thought I was capable of. I started playing guitar as an adult, and had little idea of what I wanted to get out of the hobby. After years of sporadically learning pieces of songs from online lessons, I came around to the conclusion that I enjoyed guitar enough to take it more seriously. Initially, structured online lessons yield great results, but I quickly started hitting skill plateaus that forced me to move in a different direction to feel like I was making progress. After diversions into music theory, gear acquisition, and some in-person instruction, my interest in guitar was stronger than ever, but I just wasn't getting that much better at playing the thing. Then I found Pascal's website and thought he sounded like someone I should reach out to. The first lesson I had with Pascal completely changed my view of what I could get out of guitar in such a positive way. Biased by my previous experiences learning other instruments, I went in thinking that learning could either be structured and chore-like, or relaxed and fun, but unproductive. I was wrong. Pascal immediately put me on a track that was both structured and personal, and made me enjoy playing so much more. I wish I had hours every day to devote to practicing, but I struggle to find even minutes most days. Even with that constraint, the progress was immediately tangible. One of Pascal's greatest strengths is explaining why he's teaching something and laying out realistic expectations for progression. I became much more aware of the small increments of progress I was making and my basic skills improved dramatically. As lessons progressed, the connections between the lessons became more and more clear. The fretboard transitioned from being intimidating to comfortable, and the fear of getting "lost" started going away. At no point did I have to sit down and memorize anything to get to that place; it happened naturally with the lessons. I waited to write a review for a couple years because I wanted my recommendation to be credible for someone like me: a person whose interest in playing guitar has exceeded their skill and is looking for a teacher to bridge that gap. If that sounds like you, I wholeheartedly recommend reaching out to Pascal!

Greg Glassman is an AMAZING Guitar/Bass Instructor! Patient, Creative and Super Personable. Greg…read morehas taught and Gigged for years in the Greater Seattle Area! His teaching slots are always in high demand, with usually a waiting list to get on his schedule. Greg always quipped "Practice makes Permanent"! As a Professional Drummer, I've played behind Greg in and around Seattle for years, including shows in Las Vegas, NV, and Hollywood, CA! Its money that's well spent !

I've known Greg for many years. I've seen him teach & perform guitar, ukulele & electric bass. He…read morehas been teaching and performing in Puget Sound metropolitan area for many many years. He is capable of teaching wide range of genre; jazz, classical, pop, rock, folk, bluegrass, blues & much more. He teaches at Bothell Music Lessons in downtown Bothell. He is a very nice guy. I highly recommend him for private music lessons for guitar, ukulele & bass.

I truly enjoyed learning from Terrance. First, he's genuine, patient, informative and makes you…read morefeel comfortable without judgement. Terrance asked about the music I enjoy and then incorporated songs that corresponds with lesson making it more enjoyable. I recommend Terrance and believe you will enjoy his approach and style of teaching. Regardless, good luck in your pursuit learning guitar.

I've had them work on a couple of horns and they both turned out great. They're one of the only…read moreshops left that does valve plating, which is why I went there in the first place. I will definitely be back if I need more work done.

Dan and Steve are great. Been taking my horns there for years, and have always been satisfied with…read morethe service and workmanship. Usually able to walk in and get my horns diagnosed on the spot, and they're always right on with there estimates.

Only five stars available here. I'd give them 10 stars if that was possible. Lovely people! Clean…read morebright shop, extraordinarily helpful and with a level of knowledge that I've not seen anywhere! I had bought a violin with the intent of relearning the instrument after nearly 60 years of absence of playing. The "well regarded" violin shop in my little town raved about at local teacher, who was said to be an expert in helping former players. Seemed all she wanted to do was sell me an expensive "custom made" chin rest - it wasn't "custom made' and an expensive shoulder rest while suggesting that the violin I had wans't all that good and that I should buy one from her. After three visits and $300 without any lessions, and a violin that hurt to put on my shoulder - wonder if this was her way of shaking my confidence in my instrument and buying one from her? Anyway. I gave up! Enter discovering Olson's. In 20 minutes and a little fine turning I've got a new shoulder rest and chin rest for about 1/4 of what I spent at "Brand X" and a violin that I can now nearly effortlessly hold on my shoulder. I drove a 50 mile round trip for a first visit. WELL worth the time ! Like I said - 10 stars!! Laurence Lance

Went here to get a violin for my 5 year old. They were so helpful and it was very reasonable for…read morethe rental.

John Yantis has all the credentials of a 5 star ballroom dance teacher. I took lessons for several…read moreyears and couldn't be happier that I did. The money and time were well spent to bring me happiness and a strong body plus an extremely fun social life and good friends. Today I am dancing with my husband Michael of 34 years. We go out dancing weekly and I could not be happier with all the wonderful people on the dance floor we meet and the aerobics of dancing. John is patient and is the best instructor you will ever find. You will love every minute you spend on the dance floor with John and and others, don't short change yourself -go with the best, choose John. You will never regret your choice. Fran

John is an excellent instructor with a great deal of knowledge & experience and, a great sense of…read morehumor. John's instruction will help you to improve your technique, strengthen your balance, and improve your footwork. Lead or follow he can make you a better dancer. We really enjoy working with him.

What can I say about DJ4Life, and my personal Guru, Jason LeMaitre…read more Well... It all started with a dream, one I'd had since a very young age (you're never to old to start, I'm 37!), and a website... I'd been looking for some way to learn how to go from where I was...namely a tech junkie who'd done college radio...to being able to participate and play in the scene I'd loved my entire life. I made phone calls, I hit up every single person I know, and kept searching and searching til I came across a few options...and found DJ4Life...at which point i immediately contacted Tall Sasha who answered all my questions (the man is seriously good at getting back to people...phone/email, whatever), and finally said "you ready?"...I was...and I took the plunge. Enter the Guru, Jason LeMaitre...quite possibly the Grand Master of House Music in Seattle. Holy Crap! - that was my first reaction. I'm going to meet this guy...he's going to think I'm an idiot, that I can't do ANYTHING right, stupid...whatever...yeah, needless to say I was nervous. I can't begin to explain how amazing Jason is with people, he had me at ease very quickly, and before I knew it, walked me through the doors at Trinity Nightclub, into the blue room...and there I was in the DJ booth! Our first lesson was, pretty darn life changing actually, Jason walked me through the history of DJing, helped me learn the differences in genre's within EDM, and had me beat matching (critical!) in under 30 minutes. And this was a 3 stage, 9 lesson process? Damn what would I learn next? It went from being totally scary/freaking out, to wow in one lesson. **** A slight side bar here, *yes* It does help to have your own equipment, but - this is another area in which DJ4Life excels, especially in the Seattle and San Francisco markets...Jason regularly hosts "student and family" parties in his professionally set up studio downtown, which gives students a chance to learn on and use high grade equipment, BEFORE going nuts on purchases, as well as allowing students and industry to mingle and network...the later comes in HIGHLY useful later! ***** So, you may be asking yourself: damn this guys long winded, sounds like a fanboi but...sure dude, you paid for this, what did you get out of it? Well... Do annual Vegas pool parties count? (Imagine 50 DJs one party, dream a little if you have to) ...check. How about playing for 200+ people in the biggest, baddest ass club in Seattle? ...check. Now do it again... ...check Hows about getting an "in" with some of the best DJ's in North America? ...check. The chance to play with some of the biggest talent, in the best clubs in the country? ...check Meeting the most amazing people, and finding someone who's on your side? ...check Knowing that your life has changed, your smiling a lot more, you can always find someone to rap with, talk to, and share your passion with whom doesn't just say "oh, djing....yeah...." ...check 9 lessons, 13.5 hours, several gigs, and a great friend. Priceless. Do yourself a favor...take the plunge, it's well worth it, I'd love to meet you! I'm Luther, and I'm a DJ4Life Graduate and success story!

Seattle's DJ4Life Academy is run by one of the Northwest's premier DJs, Jason LeMaitre…read more I'd wanted to learn how to DJ for years, but didn't really know what the first step was. Luckily. my wife figured it out and signed me up for DJ4Life classes is Jason. Jason first talked to me about what my goals were for DJing as well as what type of music I wanted to play. I didn't even know the answers to these questions I was so green. Jason explained everything to me and made some pointed suggestions based on things he'd gleaned about my personality. When the classes begun I got hands on experience with the equipment in the first lesson. He explained everything I needed to know and laid out how our lesson plan was going to work. I got things to practice at home as well as tasks to find some music that I liked. I must highlight the personal attention that Jason has given me. Everything we've talked about has been in regards to fulfilling my goals and it isn't based on some pre-scripted lesson plan. Jason's helped me with my technique, music selection, and has even helped me pick out the equipment that I need to get my practice hours in. I couldn't have picked a better teacher.