Bass Lessons with Casey O’Brien

I’m Casey O’Brien, an improviser, composer, and bassist with a career shaped by a dynamic upbringing in the Minneapolis music scene and an expansive range of global collaborations. My approach to music—and to teaching—is rooted in a deep commitment to both technical mastery and creative discovery. I strive to help students develop strong foundational skills while fostering a sense of exploration, adaptability, and a profound connection to groove and rhythm.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of performing at esteemed festivals, including the Barcelona Acció Musical festival in Spain and the Sons d’Hiver festival in Paris. Most recently, I completed a two-year residency at the legendary Northgate Jazz Co-op in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where I recorded an album of original material. I have also served as an artist-in-residence at Nyege Nyege Recording Studios in Kampala, Uganda, experiences that have broadened my musical perspective and deepened my appreciation for cross-cultural collaboration.

My passion for diverse musical traditions led me to Varanasi, India, where I studied under the renowned sitar player Neraj Mishra. This immersion in Indian classical music profoundly influenced my understanding of improvisation, rhythm, and melodic structure. Across my career, I have contributed to dozens of recordings spanning avant-garde jazz, R&B, rock, folk, and electronic music, each project reflecting my ongoing exploration of sound and form.

In my teaching, I emphasize improvisation, deep listening, and musical intuition, helping students not only master technique but also develop their own voice on the bass. Whether you’re a beginner building a strong foundation or an experienced player refining your approach, I tailor each lesson to your individual goals. Together, we’ll establish clear, actionable steps for growth, making the learning process both structured and creatively rewarding. My aim is to help you cultivate confidence, embrace new possibilities, and approach music as a lifelong journey of expression and discovery.