Oswald Backus
M.M. Classical Bass
Instructor of: Bass, Piano, Guitar, Violin, Viola, Cello
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Hi, I'm Oswald! I'm a classically trained bassist turned dedicated piano educator with a passion for helping students of all ages discover the joy of music.
I studied Classical Bass Performance at the New England Conservatory of Music and went on to earn my Master's in Music from the University of Kansas. My performance background spans orchestras and opera companies, which gave me a deep understanding of musicianship that I bring into every lesson.
While bass is where I started, I now teach across several instruments including piano, guitar, violin, viola, and cello. That breadth means I can help students explore different instruments or go deep on the one they love most.
What to Expect
Every lesson is built around solid fundamentals: technique, reading skills, rhythm, and musical expression. But within that structure, lessons are always tailored to your goals and interests. Whether you want to learn your favorite song, prepare for a recital, or just see what an instrument feels like in your hands, we'll build a plan that works for you.
I work well with beginners who are just getting started and need encouragement from day one, and with more advanced students who want to refine their technique and go deeper into their musicianship. I care a lot about helping students develop disciplined practice habits, but I also want them to genuinely enjoy sitting down to play.
What I love most about teaching is watching a student go from uncertain to confident. There's something special about helping someone build a relationship with an instrument from scratch, or helping a more experienced player break through to the next level. I want my students to walk away from lessons not just as better musicians, but with the kind of confidence and growth mindset that helps them take on challenges in whatever they pursue.