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Singing Step Up's Praises....

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BASS STUDENTS

Lessons after a 35 year layoff...

Yahoo Review
by
george
06/20/2010
I started taking lessons from Ariane to relearn bass after a 35 year layoff. The variety of lessons, from scales, to technique, to developing a feel for the instrument and the music, has made me a better player than I was before. She knows when to crack the whip, and when to praise the progress. Her smile or frown very appropriate and laughter is at just the right time. The confidence she has instilled in me has allowed me to start down the road from 'bass player' to becoming a Bassist.
In addition, I have had the chance to observe Ariane in other teaching situations. From private lessons with students from 6 to 60's thru school presentations holding 200 or more elementary students enthralled.
Ariane is a talented musician with the rare gift that I admire in great teachers. She is able to match her teaching to the learning abilities of her students.
Step Up Music is a great place to learn to appreciate as well as to perform music. ROCK (and other styles of music) ON

I am a multi-platinum Grammy award winning...

Yahoo Review
by
Jae-E
06/19/2010
I am a multi-platinum Grammy award winning music producer. I am also a Vallejo bassist who needed a refresher. I'm now blessed to know, and be a student of the amazing Ariane Cap. In my (25+ year) career in music I've worked with the best there is, and I must tell you that Ariane is of the "best" I've seen.

We have her now, but she could easily be touring the World with any major artist. Run, don't walk to Step Up Music!!!

I drive from Concord...

Yahoo Review
by
Sheila
06/18/2010
I am taking Banjo lessons - actually I am learning about the fretboard,scales, and chords. I am learn a lot and look forward to each week's lesson. I drive from Concord.

In a short period she has shared...

When I first met Ariane six months ago I told her I wanted to get in touch with the musician I knew I had within me, and to be able to one day call myself a "bass player." Prior to meeting Ariane I had owned a Fender Jazz Bass for over five years but did not know what to do with it outside of a few basic scales.  One day I found Ariane on the Internet and my musical journey began.  In a short period she has shared so much with me that I can only be excited about the direction she is guiding me.  Just with what she has taught me in the area of finger position training alone has really opened my eyes, ears and fingers to the endless possibilities on the fret board.  I am looking forward to my musical journey and playing my first gig in the near future.  Regarding playing bass I may not be where I want to be yet, but because of Ariane I am far from where I started several months ago.  Thanks Ariane, looking forward to the journey.
 Charles Dupree, Vallejo

She is intuitive to the kinds of music that move...

Ariane has been my teacher for 10 fabulous months. I arrived at my first lesson a bit nervous (which she quickly relieved) and with one totally open expectaion-simply to learn. We have been doing rhythms (my greatest weakness), theory, improvisation, tunes and songs. I am especially appreciative of her knowledge and her patience in explaining answers (sometimes more than once) and her sense of humor makes the most difficult passages a joy. She is intuitive to the kinds of music that move a student, and yet finds an opportunity to introduce new styles and techniques. An incredible musical journey that has positively affected all aspects of my life (as only music can =))
Cindy, via email, 11-5-07

Ariane has such patience! She teaches with such kindness...

I started lessons with Ariane about 10 months ago. I LOVED the deep sounds and vibrations that come from the Bass and decided I HAD to try it! Ariane has such patience! She teaches with such kindness and helps you to see you are capable of MUCH more than you thought you were!! She challenges as well as helps you along so every lesson is a success!! I LOVE the "grooves",and playing the Bass part with recorded,familiar music. The classes incorporate theory in a fun way----because you're ALWAYS playing while you learn! I've seen Bass played in ways I didn't know they could be----solo Bassists! I'm learning and LOVING it!! Thanks Ariane!!!
Jayne D, Roseville, 2007

I have been driving from Sacramento area for 3...

Yahoo Review
by
Cindy
06/18/2010
I have been driving from the Sacramento area for 3 years to study with Ariane. She is fabulously multitalented, professional (and fun!) and has been patient beyond words, as we have explored many aspects of music, to mention a few-music theory, ear training, bass, rhythms, piano/keyboard, composition, even right brain vs left brain theories = ), and preparing for performing (hope I didn't miss any-lol). Step Up Music and Ariane Rock!!!

Encouraging great technique, style, and fun...

I play with Julie's HOT FLASHES Band
I VERY much look forward to lessons for our band with Ariane. 
I enjoy the way she instructs us.  Encouraging great technique, style, and having fun. The best about these lessons is Ariane's positive attitude.
A sentence or three to sum it all up: You are providing a wonderful service.  If I had children or grand children, I would definitely enroll them in your classes, too. 
Sheila Welt, 68 years old

Beginner

Via Yelp

Ariane Cap is Awesome!

I have been taking bass lessons with Ariane for about 5 months.  I never played any instrument before and I never thought I had any rhythm.  Ariane has been a great teacher, making it fun to learn and working with me to meet my goals on my timeframe.  

I walked into Ariane's school and said "I want to learn to play the bass guitar. And by the way, I need to learn 3 songs to be played in front of a group of 20 people in 2 month".  Her answer - "not a problem".    She got me there.

I highly recommend taking lessons with Ariane. No matter what your current skill level, she will help you improve.

Mark Holzman

Clip of James

From an email...

Elefant is a challenge and really fun. The waltzie feel makes it so cool. The bowing is all over the place to try to execute it, but what a great song! I've only worked up to measure 17 trying to get everything together fingering, bowing, 3/8 timing when my head wants to feel 4. I've been using metronome to make me focus on the 3. It's a mess but it's an obtainable goal. Just yesterday at work I'm standing at a platform waiting for a broken train to come in and your whole interval explanation just ran through my brain for whatever reason but I started thinking stuff like a diminished 6th is a 5th and diminished 3rd is a 2nd and Augmented 6th is minor 7th. It was weird but really cool because I started looking at it differently.
You are an awesome teacher!
Jim

KIDS ROCK CAMPS

A wonderful place for children to enter...

Yahoo Review
by
sdr
06/17/2010
Step Up Music is a wonderful place for children to enter the world of music, have fun and experience a variety of instruments. Ariane Cap is an excellent teacher who relates well to children.

Very professional yet gentle...

Yahoo Review
by
Maria C
06/17/2010
Step Up Music Vallejo has been awesome for our family! My son's piano playing has been taken to the next level. My husband is fulfilling a life long dream of playing the bass. Ariane is very professional yet gentle and caring. It is a wonderful mix for any student but especially for the young. ARIANE and Step Up Music ROCK! We are blessed to have her in our lives.

Has truly been an inspiration for my son's...

When we found Ariane [my son and I] were both thrilled because she exudes coolness. Not only is he learning more, he is doing it while having fun! She has truly been an inspiration for my son's pursuit of music. ...Cookie C., Vallejo

Really makes music fun for the kids...

Yahoo Review
by
Shannon
06/21/2010
My son takes piano lessons from Ariane and has been in two of the rock camps. Ariane is incredible and really makes music fun for the kids, which is what its all about. My son LOVEs rocking out and has had the opportunity to try keyboards, vocals, drums, base guitar, everything. We are so lucky to have Step Up Music here in Vallejo. Highly recommended.

The thrill they have after they leave your class...

I know Madison and Kamryn have been taking lessons from you for a short time, but I wanted to let you know the thrill they have after they leave your class. That has to do with YOU and your teaching.  It's really nice to see Kamryn interested in the piano once again.
Lori Couvillion, Vallejo, in a recent email

SCHOOLS

American Canyon High School

Thank you for coming in today. I know the students appreciated the presentation. I hope you get contacted by many of my students, I'll keep pushing them.

-M. Alan Sypert
Director of Instrumental Music
American Canyon High School

American Canyon Middle School

Hi Ariane,

Thank you so much for visiting my classes. The kids really enjoyed your presentation as did I. Hope some of them respond to your offer J

Looking forward to next time!

Debbie Walden
ACMS Music

ADULT PIANO STUDENTS

Excellent mentor and relatable...

I hadn'tt been studying music at all and decided to start the piano.  I fooled around with the guitar and know basic chords, but have no concept of music theory or how to read notes.  I had an instructor for the guitar for a little while, but everything was so methodical and by the book.  Ariane is very flexible and understands that everyone has a different learning style. She is an excellent teacher.

The hardest part about learning any new instrument is becoming comfortable and patient with yourself.
Oftentimes, I think we are our own worst critic as artists.  You have to be really patient with yourself the way Ariane is patient, or else you will get discouraged whenever you hear something you want to play.  Since music is all around us, it's not uncommon to hear musicians you want to emulate, but can't yet.  I believe that someday you can with Ariane's help.  Ariane's good nature and her ability to "think outside the box" in terms of learning styles are awesome.  She is an excellent mentor and relatable, and she empowers you feel confident even when you don't think you are very good.    
A sentence or three to sum it all up?
TAKE LESSONS FROM ARIANE.  SHE IS HONESTLY THE BEST TEACHER AND YOU WON'T REGRET IT.
Janice Cabahug, Touro University

VALLEJO VOICES

Yahoo Review
Step Up Music
Vallejo, CA

Review Date: 06/23/2010
Step-Up Music is a family friendly music school...that brings a chorus of smiles, and a melody of joy to all those who pass through its doors. There is a European/New York-centric influenced decor, offering a bright, clean and inviting atmosphere...one that whispers "Hello". So many music schools lack personality, or seem cold, and that isn't conducive to learning...for children, or adults. Step-Up Music sets itself apart from the rest, the very first moment you gaze the high-end architecture of the school's building front. The canary yellow color scheme...pleasantly warms the eye, as the storefront windows greet you with poppy music themed artwork--and instantly...you know...that you are in the right place! The interior of the music school is a complex, yet minimalistic, mix of cozy earth tones, a burst of brilliant color, beautiful lighting, and gorgeous furnishings; more reminiscent of a salon, than a typical school environment. There is an ample supply of instruments, and students can bring their own instruments to lessons...should they so choose.

The facility is state-of-the-art...and its instructors superb, kind, and generous! Each practice room is spacious, and open--not cramped like most music schools, which tend to be intimidating and scary for children--and lets face it, even for us adults. The reception/waiting room, as with the whole of the school, feels like home...but, with a charming urban-chic twist!!! Long and wide windows...draped in fashionably white linen, make eager use of available sunlight--from just beyond the property's face; illuminating the expansive interior...in every direction.

Ariane Cap, the founder of Step-Up Music, is a master bassist and expert pianist--trained in all major genres of music, from Classical...to Jazz, Blues, Contemporary, Country, Folk, R&B, and Pop music, etc. Having toured the world as a live performance and recording musician...for many years, Cap honed her musicianship under the close instruction and mentoring of legendary bassist Victor Wooten...and other noteworthy and world renown music greats.

Cap offers her students the unique experience to study with a working musician, one who is a real-pro; truly a rare opportunity indeed--for beginning music students...and for longtime musicians wishing to re-familiarize themselves with their instruments, study sight reading, or those hoping to polish their skills in other areas!

Group performances are encouraged for all students, including the school's growing Bass Orchestra, there are frequent seminars--and of course...the always popular "Rock (Band) Camp" for younger learners--lending them much needed stage experience before live audiences; this, an essential "must" for the evolution of any musician--and a great way to assist the youth toward becoming outgoing citizens, and to develop, and maintain, positive social skills...therein.

Step-Up Music has brought a hint of Europe to Northern California, in the form of song, and true professionalism...that is exactly as I suggest, "Simply world-class!" 10 Stars...as 5--just isn't good enough!!!

I know the above text sounds like something of a commercial, but honestly, this is what I have witnessed--and feel. I was instantly blown-away within seconds after stepping inside the building, and I know that your experience will be exactly the same!!! I grew-up in the entertainment business, and I have been in many music school environments, either as a student, or as a visitor, and I have found none quite as inviting as Step-Up Music--and by light years. If I could have only learned in a school like this? It makes you want to be a kid again!!!!

Sincerely, Jacques C. Earley

Step Up Music Vallejo is amazing!

Thank you sooo much for coming to the library.  All the bands were awesome – you should tell them that any of them are welcome to come play at the library any time they want: just contact me.  And, of course we can do the whole thing again some time too.
 
As for something to quote: 
Step Up Music Vallejo is amazing!  Their musicians are entertaining and professional caliber.  A huge asset to the Vallejo community.
 

Mark Flowers, Vallejo Library

State-of-the-art...and its instructors superb

Yahoo Review
Step Up Music
Vallejo, CA

Review Date: 06/23/2010
Step-Up Music is a family friendly music school...that brings a chorus of smiles, and a melody of joy to all those who pass through its doors. There is a European/New York-centric influenced decor, offering a bright, clean and inviting atmosphere...one that whispers "Hello". So many music schools lack personality, or seem cold, and that isn't conducive to learning...for children, or adults. Step-Up Music sets itself apart from the rest, the very first moment you gaze the high-end architecture of the school's building front. The canary yellow color scheme...pleasantly warms the eye, as the storefront windows greet you with poppy music themed artwork--and instantly...you know...that you are in the right place! The interior of the music school is a complex, yet minimalistic, mix of cozy earth tones, a burst of brilliant color, beautiful lighting, and gorgeous furnishings; more reminiscent of a salon, than a typical school environment. There is an ample supply of instruments, and students can bring their own instruments to lessons...should they so choose.

The facility is state-of-the-art...and its instructors superb, kind, and generous! Each practice room is spacious, and open--not cramped like most music schools, which tend to be intimidating and scary for children--and lets face it, even for us adults. The reception/waiting room, as with the whole of the school, feels like home...but, with a charming urban-chic twist!!! Long and wide windows...draped in fashionably white linen, make eager use of available sunlight--from just beyond the property's face; illuminating the expansive interior...in every direction.

Ariane Cap, the founder of Step-Up Music, is a master bassist and expert pianist--trained in all major genres of music, from Classical...to Jazz, Blues, Contemporary, Country, Folk, R&B, and Pop music, etc. Having toured the world as a live performance and recording musician...for many years, Cap honed her musicianship under the close instruction and mentoring of legendary bassist Victor Wooten...and other noteworthy and world renown music greats.

Cap offers her students the unique experience to study with a working musician, one who is a real-pro; truly a rare opportunity indeed--for beginning music students...and for longtime musicians wishing to re-familiarize themselves with their instruments, study sight reading, or those hoping to polish their skills in other areas!

Group performances are encouraged for all students, including the school's growing Bass Orchestra, there are frequent seminars--and of course...the always popular "Rock (Band) Camp" for younger learners--lending them much needed stage experience before live audiences; this, an essential "must" for the evolution of any musician--and a great way to assist the youth toward becoming outgoing citizens, and to develop, and maintain, positive social skills...therein.

Step-Up Music has brought a hint of Europe to Northern California, in the form of song, and true professionalism...that is exactly as I suggest, "Simply world-class!" 10 Stars...as 5--just isn't good enough!!!

I know the above text sounds like something of a commercial, but honestly, this is what I have witnessed--and feel. I was instantly blown-away within seconds after stepping inside the building, and I know that your experience will be exactly the same!!! I grew-up in the entertainment business, and I have been in many music school environments, either as a student, or as a visitor, and I have found none quite as inviting as Step-Up Music--and by light years. If I could have only learned in a school like this? It makes you want to be a kid again!!!!

Sincerely, Jacques C. Earley

Happy, cheerful place...

Google Review
by
Birgit
Based on what I personally have experienced at Ariane's studio, I would not have any hesitations sending my kids there or take lessons myself. What a happy, cheerful place this is and Ariane is an awesome musician with the patience of a saint.

MUSICIANS and COLLEAGUES

Steve Bailey

Ariane Cap is the REAL DEAL. A real player, a real teacher, and a real person. For many years she has been an integral part of our camps (as well as other camps) and offers a unique perspective on many things. Oh, did I mention that she can PLAY???!!! 
Steve Bailey, bassist (Bass Extremes, David Benoit, Jethro Tull, Solo Artist)

Victor Wooten

I've been enjoying hearing Ariane play for a few years now. Her monstrous groove grabbed my attention the first time I heard her. I am happy about the possibilities of Step Up Music. This should be a great benefit to all musicians. I look forward to visiting. I can use a lesson from Ariane myself.
Victor L. Wooten (Bela Fleck and The Flecktones, Soul Circus, Solo Artist, Author)

Kai Eckhardt

You are very lucky to have Ariane as a friend and teacher. She is 'da bomb'!
Kai Eckhart, bassist (Garajmahal, John McLaughlin, etc.)

Andy Calder

I am a founder/director of a program called Jackson Hole Rock & Roll Camp, which is an annual clinic held each July. The program has grown to accommodate 80 students over the course of 10 days, primarily working in
band settings. For instructors, the situation is challenging: regardless of your instrument or area of expertise, you are a band coach. You are expected to offer guidance to all students, with the goal being to get bands functioning as a single unit.

I met Ariane at a bass program in the spring of 2004. Her enthusiasm was infectious, her desire to learn was seemingly limitless, and she was immediately likeable. When our rogram developed to the point that we eeded some outside instructors, Ariane was the obvious choice.

Ariane Cap was our first guest bass clinician in 2006, and she returns every year as an artist-in-residence. Last year, she led the entire student body in innovative rhythmic exercises each morning. Ariane also coached a band for the whole week, working intensively with them through rehearsals,
recording sessions, and performance.

Although Ariane lives a great distance from here, we consider her part of our team. In staff evaluations, students and parents often mention her raw talent, enthusiasm, and ability to convey her knowledge to others. We (the organizers of the program) are most impressed with her ability to get the most from her students.

Ariane Cap is one of our best assets, and we hope she will continue to work with us.


Sincerely,

Andrew Calder
Co-Director
JHME Rock and Roll Camp
www.jacksonholerocknrollcamp.com

Ed Domer

...She is a masterful player, and a commanding presence on stage. A strong groove, combined with stylistic versatility and a strong knowledge of theory and harmony is just the beginning of what she has to offer as a player. She is very passionate about her playing, so she connects well with her audience and band mates on an emotional level. All combined, this makes Ariane a pleasure to play with.

In 2006 as an instructor and clinican, Ariane really exceeded any expectations we had. She showed an immediate understanding of what we were doing with our program, and showed personal attention to individual students needs from her first moments on campus. In 2006, she gave a performance/clinic to the whole student and faculty body, as well as served as a band coach for the week to one the 10 bands we had that year. She was as passionate about her teaching and clinics as she was about her playing. The students loved Ariane, and her ability to communicate with the kids was obvious to myself and everybody associated with the camp. It was largely due to the obvious need to have Ariane back in 2007 that we created our artist- in- residence program.

In 2007, Ariane introduced her new rhythm studies program “ Takatina” to the faculty and students of Jackson Hole Rock and Roll Camp. This further demonstrated Arianes ‘ continuing passion and commitment to teaching, as this is a new, (to western music teachers, anyway) cutting edge way of teaching, vocalizing, and internalizing rhythm that none of the faculty last year had ever seen before. We were proud to have our students participating in this new program, and the faculty benefited from the new material brought to the camp as well.
We are proud to have Ariane back in 2008, and we will no doubt benefit from another years worth of Arianes’ research and development in her playing, teaching and clinics.

I highly recommend Ariane for any playing, teaching, or clinic related project she might be working on, or auditioning for. I am proud to have her as a returning artist-in-residence to the Jackson Hole Rock and Roll Camp, and look forward to playing with her again in the summer.


Ed Domer
Co-Director
JHME Rock and Roll Camp
www.jacksonholerocknrollcamp.com





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