Step onto any stage. Thrive in unfamiliar situations.
Perform with world-class players.

Step onto any stage. Thrive in unfamiliar situations.
Perform with world-class players.

TIME-SENSITIVE

Enrollment (& special pricing) ends

Sunday, April 7th at 2pm ET

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Hours
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WHY FIRST CALL MUSICIAN: EXPRESS EXISTS

"I'd love to play with my musical heroes, but why would they call me when they can play with [insert name] instead?" If that feels familiar…


THEN THIS PROGRAM IS FOR YOU!


Whether you're at the beginning of the road or deep into your journey, looking to unlock the mystery behind amazing ears…


Or you’re a teacher, trying to help students develop the long-term skills you know they really need…


Or you’re purely in this for the love, curiosity, and joy of making music…


The fact that you’re reading this page shows that you're a dedicated and curious musician looking to play at the highest level. The good news is, you can!

There's a lot of mystery around why some musicians get ahead and why others don't.

We might think it's about having a natural and untouchable talent, but that's simply not true. It's not about having the fastest chops or the most brilliant technique.                                                         

Yes, we need to have masterful control over our instrument — but technique is only a vehicle for delivering our musical ideas, and that is influenced more by what we hear than how fast we can play.

It's not about spending eight hours a day in the practice room. 

For every top musician who spends eight hours a day practicing, there are countless others who get further with only one or two hours of practice. It's about optimizing your time, focus, and efficiency away from the instrument.

It's not about having a music degree OR natural talent. 

Even those with music degrees often miss out on building the skills that sustain a long-term music career. And natural talent?  Every professional started as a beginner, period.

We know that superior results are the accumulation of doing the right things every day.

And yet…

What world-class musicians do often seems mythical and unachievable. 

News flash: they learned the same way everyone learns –– with time, dedication, and effective mentorship.

But this draws attention away from what really makes them shine. The asset that…

  • Makes them first-call players,
  • Drives all of their playing choices, and
  • Builds their musical confidence

Is 100% achievable by everyone.

>>GREAT EARS<<

After all, no matter what you practice, how much music you memorize, or what courses you take…how can you expect to play your best if you can't accurately recognize what's happening?

NOT JUST FOR THE CHOSEN FEW

Many people believe that either you’re blessed with amazing ears from birth or that it's never in the cards for you.


Even if you went to music school…
Even if you’re a working professional musician…
Even if you’ve studied music for most of your life…


Your ears just keep letting you down.


If that’s been your experience, I’m here to tell you:


It isn’t your fault.


Even top music school programs offer an antiquated approach to ear training that leaves most students feeling bewildered and relieved that they barely passed the class.
Functional ear training? That’s unheard-of in most music schools.


But I’m here to tell you the good news:


It’s not too late to begin developing your ears using a proven process that works for every musician who applies what I teach.


Not only will you discover your ears communicating to you in high definition –– giving you more information about what you’re hearing than ever before ––


You’ll discover that the more you train (using my collection of effective and fun practice techniques), the better the results.


You’ll realize that you don’t just hear well –– it’s like your ears are psychic. They anticipate what is happening around you, basically predicting the future in the music you’re playing.


How can this become a reality for you?

INTRODUCING…

FIRST CALL MUSICIAN: EXPRESS

A 10-Week Crash Course Giving Musicians the Confidence to Thrive in Unfamiliar Situations

In ten short weeks, you’ll already be hearing so much more. And – warning – this newfound awareness is likely to increase confidence in all aspects of your music-making.

If you’re like many of my students, you’ll find yourself eager to take on new challenges –– from finally making that recording, to saying yes to a gig that would normally have you shaking in your boots, to playing that audition with conviction instead of second-guessing yourself.

STEP ONTO ANY STAGE. THRIVE IN UNFAMILIAR SITUATIONS. PERFORM WITH WORLD-CLASS PLAYERS IN 2024 & BEYOND.

A 10-Week Crash Course Giving Musicians the Confidence to Thrive in Unfamiliar Situations.


And a Proven Path to Performing with World-Class Players.


This life-changing experience is for the musician who is ready to redefine what it means to be a musician, dig deeper into their unique artistic voice, and take bold risks in performance and collaboration.

But, a word of caution:


You’ve got to be willing to meet your ears where they are now.


The road map you’ll get here is proven to work, but it requires a tremendous amount of vulnerability to acknowledge what you can (and cannot) hear, and to trust that your honest assessment of where you are now is the key to your success.


No more avoiding areas of discomfort.
No more playing small.


No more turning down the dial on your dreams because you don’t want to worry you might embarrass yourself and let down your collaborators.


Good news: from now on, you are on the path of growth.
I've mapped out the exact steps you need to develop world-class ears so that you shine on any stage…and you keep getting calls to come back!

YOU’RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE

No matter where you're starting from, First Call Musician Express is about elevating your musical senses to the next level. Whether you're in the early stages of your musical journey or have years of experience under your fingers, this program is crafted for those who are ready to take their skills from “good enough” to the levels of the elite.

If you align with any of the following, you have a place with us:

➞ If you're an emerging artist who is ready to close the gap between where you are now and where you want to be.

➞  If you're a seasoned professional ready to elevate your musicality and refine your aural skills to be able to perform with the best of the best.  

➞  If you're a lifelong learner who wants to merge your passion with progress and take your skill to the next level.

➞  If you're a performer who wants to break through to new musical territories and transform your listening skills to unlock your full potential.

➞  If you're a curious and passionate hobbyist looking to cultivate your love for music through better listening, ready to make every note more vivid, regardless of your professional aspirations.

No matter where you are in your journey…you’re in the right place.

Whether you're a classical, jazz, pop, or even Balkan folk musician, the demands placed on you are already overwhelming enough:

  • To play with flawless technique and perfect intonation
  • To sight-read well, even if it's atonal and in an odd meter
  • To be able to get outside of your own head, playing 100% in the moment while supporting the other musicians around you

That's a tall order. And let's be real:

To be a competitive musician at the highest level is just the start.

(And even just to be a solid working musician requires an incredible amount of dedication.)

On top of playing with a high level of expression and authenticity, there's also the daily practice: scales, arpeggios, etudes, learning repertoire... You know the drill.

Easy stuff, right? 🙄

It's almost as if there's not enough time to work on your ears, or focus on "creative" activities like composing and improvising…

(Or maybe you believe it's *just* for jazz musicians…)

Either way, there's just so much to digest!

Not to mention mastering repertoire for the big orchestral audition, rehearsals with your band, finishing that composition commission, or memorizing jazz standards for your next gig.

We're constantly spinning our wheels. And worse, even when we follow our practice plans to a T, the individual pieces often don't come together to give us the freedom to play how we want.

In fact, all of the practice we do mostly leads to more thinking on the gig — and LESS freedom.

And if there's one thing we want, it's the ability to play without worry.

What's ironic is that the one thing that will help us the most with this — saving time and playing with more confidence — is the thing we actually neglect:

Our ears.

Of course, there are shortcuts: the iReal pro, an iPad full of notation, or just avoiding opportunities that would force you to rely on your ears.

And then, it inevitably happens that you don't have the sheet music and are forced to play something entirely by ear.

Maybe one tune is okay, but eventually you get lost...and it seems like it's totally obvious to everyone.

Panic.

And of course, we all know that when the “oh sh*t” feeling sets in, it becomes even MORE difficult to hear what's happening and support the musicians around you.

Your sound suffers and you lose confidence, clearly broadcasting your discomfort. Fear blocks your listening skills.

Yeah...everybody knows.

It doesn't matter if it's at a coffee shop gig or on stage with the New York Philharmonic... This can and DOES happen to a lot of musicians.

GIVING YOU WHAT EVERY MUSICIAN NEEDS

(I DIDN’T LEARN ANY OF THIS IN MUSIC SCHOOL)

Let's pivot for a second.

I want you to imagine that your ideal musical self just played the best performance of your life with a cast of dream musicians.

How great did it feel? 

Probably incredible!

Let’s dig deeper...

What was the first-call version of you able to do?

Maybe you...

  • Played with unshakable confidence — performing a solo recital at Lincoln Center, or playing next to your jazz hero, Chet Baker.
  • Nailed all the music in real time without any rehearsal — playing all the tunes by ear on the gig (no real book or iReal pro app!), or sight-reading everything with ease.
  • Were put on the spot, being asked to improvise something in front of an audience for the first time...but you were in the flow and played without any fear!
  • Were able to lead your musical partners, broadcasting a clear vision for the music.
  • Got lost occasionally, but you were so confident in your ability to listen, it didn't matter — you still felt in complete control, and without fear.

What's the link between each experience?

Your ears, which feed your intuition...enabling musical freedom.

Come back to the present. Does this seem that far off?

Whether you're a seasoned professional, an adult learner, a college student, or a lifelong hobbyist...

These skills do not have to live only in your imagination.

THE 4 PILLARS OF FIRST CALL MUSICIAN: EXPRESS

PUT THE DAYS OF DREADING CONCERTS AND AVOIDING PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES BEHIND YOU –– AND STEP INTO A NEW RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SOUNDS HAPPENING ALL AROUND YOU.

Every musician has the opportunity to engage musically –– without even being at the instrument! It all begins (you guessed it) with your ears.

You get to redefine what’s possible for you musically, and it starts here and now!

FIRST CALL MUSICIAN: EXPRESS GIVES

YOU THE TOOLS, STRATEGY, AND COACHING TO:

Masterful Listening

Imagine stepping onto any stage with the confidence of a truly seasoned artist, where your ears are your most trusted companion. No surprises, no doubts — just 100% in the moment, confident that you can handle anything. This isn’t just a dream — this is a reality for many of the best performers. For those who have felt out of their depth, uncertain in new musical territories, or need a feeling of safety when performing — you can create that for yourself. You no longer have to imagine a future where you navigate these with ease and assurance — we’ve designed First Call Musician: Express to bring you there.

Holistic Musical Development

Music isn't just something you do, but a reflection of who you are. And working on your ears is like the glue that binds every piece of your musicality together. Rather than dismantling each piece separately like many institutions, our holistic approach marries all of the complexities of music-making — your rhythm, sound, interaction, etc. — ensuring that your musicianship resonates with authenticity and depth in every setting. Whether you're seeking to reconnect with your passion, elevate your place in an orchestra, or simply find a new voice in retirement, you can deepen your core musicianship in a unified (holistic) approach to music education.

Practical Applications

Move beyond the frustration of learning skills that never see the light of day. In our program, every concept you learn is directly applied to real-life scenarios. We ensure that the skills you develop are not just theoretical knowledge, but practical tools you can use immediately, whether in performance or teaching. Transform your practice sessions into a dynamic preparation for the real world, making everything you do a step closer to achieving your musical dreams.

Lifelong Growth

Our time together is limited — but your journey is just beginning.  You'll discover the tools and knowledge to continue learning and growing on your own. Imagine a future where you confidently navigate new and unfamiliar musical landscapes, empowered to be your own guide and teacher. First Call Musician: Express plants the seeds for lifelong musical exploration, preparing you to tackle challenges and opportunities with confidence and creativity.  When the program's over, you're not done growing — you're just getting ready to explore more, push further, and break new ground.


While everyone's results are unique, here are some real achievements from First Call Musician: Express students:

  • Jazz Mastery for Beginners: If you're new to ear training and jazz, take a deep breath and relax. Imagine solfegging a Miles Davis solo by ear and being able to play it on your instrument. Sound impossible? That's exactly what one of our First Call Musician alumni was able to do after joining the program!
  • Classical Performance Reimagined: Have you ever pictured yourself practicing classical music repertoire on an airplane, without your instrument, using just solfege? That's what some of our clients are doing, preparing for performances in ways they never imagined. Dive in and experience how to reimagine classical performance anywhere, anytime — all within weeks of joining the program.
  • On-the-Spot Transcription: Imagine the panic: you're in your car, minutes before a show…and the bandleader makes changes to the set list. With First Call Musician: Express, our clients have faced this head-on, transcribing brand-new songs by ear with unfailing accuracy — right there in the parking lot.
  • Creative Output: Transform your listening skills into creative power with First Call Musician: Express. Our clients have channeled their enhanced auditory skills into composing entire albums of original music after joining the program. Fine-tune your ear and discover your voice so you can share it with the world.
  • Repertoire Expansion: Imagine learning fifty new jazz tunes by ear, nailing every chord change and confidently playing them in any venue. This isn't a dream for many of our clients –– it's a reality after joining First Call Musician.
  • Renewed Passions: Rediscover your love for music in ways you never thought possible with First Call Musician: Express. Our clients have reignited their passion for music-making, transforming their experience into something deeper and more profound. Join us, and fall in love with music all over again.

NO MORE WAITING FOR THE PHONE TO RING.

HERE’S WHAT’S WAITING FOR YOU INSIDE…

How It Works:

10 WEEKS. 5-PERSON TEAM. LIFELONG ACHIEVEMENT.

The First Call Musician: Express is a 10-week online program crafted to enhance your musical skills and knowledge. Designed for both convenience and depth of learning, it allows you to undergo a transformative musical journey. Central to this program is the First Call Musician: Express Portal, hosted through Skool, which provides seamless, 24/7 access to all program materials and resources in one organized location.

Participants in the program enjoy two weekly live coaching sessions via Zoom, enhanced by flexible pop-up office hours and optional private support in our dedicated Skool community. This is all designed to get you singing solfege, identifying chord changes, grasping harmonic destinations, and more within a matter of weeks. 

Live participation isn't mandatory, as all sessions are recorded and made available for lifetime access, ensuring you never miss out. The program is supported by a committed team comprising an administrator, two main coaches, and two feedback coaches within the Skool community — all experienced musicians — guaranteeing a personalized learning experience that goes beyond just being another participant.

Interested in knowing exactly what you get in the program? Read below.

KICKSTART BUNDLE ($500 VALUE)

Hit the ground running with this welcome package as it gives you the perfect opportunity to dive in immediately, with exercises and recorded trainings to help you prepare for the start of the program. You’ll also get a digital program workbook with all supplemental handouts and access to the First Call Musician Portal — ensuring you’ll stay hyper-organized throughout the program, so you can use every moment to make extraordinary progress.

LISTEN LIKE A PRO: 10 WEEKLY SESSIONS WITH DANNY ($10,000 VALUE)

These guided sessions are the centerpiece of the program. Beyond traditional lectures, these 90-minute workshops offer personalized growth and immediate feedback, developing the skills needed to help you stand out amongst other musicians. You'll form strong connections with peers and enhance your listening skills in real time, using cutting-edge techniques from Danny's musician-developed curriculum. No dusty textbooks or cookie-cutter methods — Danny’s teaching is carefully designed to take you from absolute beginner to limitless listening. These workshops give you everything you need to continue making progress years from now — even when no teacher is present.

With nearly 20 years of performance experience — and a decade spent teaching innovative techniques at universities globally — Danny’s content is crafted to deepen your musical journey and elevate you to first-call status.

A few highlights of the curriculum…

  • From the Ground Up: Rebuilding Your Core Listening Skills  

This is the launch point for our journey in First Call Musician: Express. This section of the program transforms your foundational listening skills, giving you a structure to hear the fundamental building blocks of any musical piece – regardless of difficulty. You’ll learn solfege (movable do) as your entry point into hearing fundamental chord changes, movements to other keys, and more. These are skills that you will actually be able to use in performance, and see results quickly!

  • Dictation Redefined: The Musician’s Guide to Flawless Transcription

Many musicians equate the term “dictation” or “transcription” with dread and fear, and rightfully so! It’s often presented in a way that doesn’t help you improve your listening –– instilling panic instead. It’s time to flip the script, so that you can leverage the power of this technique and quickly take your ears to elite status. Learn the tools that every jazz musician relies on to sharpen their ears –– a must-do practice that enhances results for musicians of all kinds, leading you to stand out and secure better performance opportunities. 

Together, we’ll dive into techniques that teach you how to write down what you hear on any recording — with absolute certainty — and without your instrument. Imagine mastering the art of learning music by ear and retaining it forever, transforming what was once a dreadful task into an empowering skill. Now, imagine bringing that confidence to the stage…

  • Beyond the Horizon: Unlocking the Secrets to Advanced Listening Techniques

Dive into the heart of what it means to truly excel in your musical hearing, and push your ears to the limit. Ever ponder the real depth of your listening abilities, or what makes truly remarkable ears? This section will answer those questions — and help you discover what’s possible for you! (Hint: it’s MUCH more than you thought!)

Danny will guide the First Call Musicians through a transformative process designed to stretch and enhance their listening capabilities to levels never before experienced.  Whether it's one, five, or ten years from now, these skills will still be making your music better.

AMPLIFY YOUR ARTISTRY WITH CASEY LIPKA ($7,500 VALUE)

Every musician battles with self-confidence and personal hurdles, especially when learning something new. That's exactly where Casey steps in. Elevate your musical journey with Casey Lipka, your dedicated First Call Musician Success Coach, who brings her wealth of experience as a respected singer, songwriter, and bassist.

Casey is an in-demand LA bassist, songwriter, and vocalist, known for her tours with CAKE and fronting Motown orchestras. She's transformed the musical paths of hundreds, coupling her rich performing experience with insightful coaching. 

Casey will help you redefine your relationship to music-making as your guide and success coach, bringing 18 years of first-hand expertise as a celebrated musician. Each week, she’ll lead you through transformative mindset shifts, personal reflections, and strategic planning for success.

Casey’s coaching transcends traditional methods, focusing on accountability, sustainable habits, and increasing self-awareness, ensuring you're progressing toward your musical goals. The supportive community she builds in her weekly co-working sessions will accelerate your growth exponentially. With Casey’s guidance, you’ll learn to practice efficiently and joyfully for a lifetime, in ways that resonate with your personal style.

Need a gentle push? Kick in the pants? Casey is here to help.

FRUSTRATION-FREE WEEKLY PRECISION PRACTICE PLANS ($1,500 VALUE)

Musicians hate wasting time, especially when it comes to practicing. And let’s face it, ear training often becomes discouraging because the progress isn't as visible as with other areas of practice, like working on technique or learning a new piece. It’s frustrating…unless you have a Precision Practice Plan.

Danny’s Precision Practice Plan provides you with a weekly detailed road map for advancing your listening skills in just 10-20 minutes a day. 100% tailored to the curriculum, it eliminates guesswork, ensuring your practice is focused and effective. You’ll receive tips on how to integrate these exercises seamlessly into your busy life, with tons of supplemental audio guides, videos, and worksheets. 

Enjoy clear, measurable progress each week, with targeted advice to direct your practice. Take guesswork out of the equation and avoid plateaus while sustaining motivation. These sessions are a highlight for First Call Musician participants!

MIDWEEK MOMENTUM BOOST: DANNY'S PRE-RECORDED WEEKLY GUIDED SESSIONS ($2,500 VALUE)

Need a bit of extra support while you’re practicing during the week? Danny makes it super easy! Just follow along with his guided video practice sessions, and you’ll be progressing without having to do any planning. These sessions will add confidence to your practice routine, ensuring mastery with minimal additional effort…because who doesn’t love leveling up without breaking a sweat?

ONE PREMIER MUSIC INDUSTRY EXPERT MASTERCLASS ($2,000 VALUE)

As a musician, improving your listening skills means more than just understanding harmony and melody. It involves grasping other important elements like balance, tone quality, and blend. These factors are crucial — especially in studios or during recordings, where how you perceive and adjust sound can really make a difference. And let’s face it…recording and sharing your music is one of THE most exciting parts about being a musician.


Join Danny for an exclusive session with a top music industry expert who will explore the intricacies of listening from a fresh perspective, with a focus on recording techniques and studio practices. The special guest will share insider strategies and experiences from the recording industry, shedding light on a whole new dimension for applying your first-call ears. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this session will inspire you to not only enhance your performing skills but also unleash your creativity in the recording process, creating a lasting legacy of your music. By tapping into Danny's extensive network of leading experts, you'll receive a comprehensive and enriching experience.

DAILY FEEDBACK FORUM: EXPERT GUIDANCE & COMMUNITY SUPPORT ($3,000 VALUE)

Have burning questions, need feedback, or want to share something awesome you created? Our private Skool community is an essential resource that will keep you connected with an international community of musicians. With two expert musician-educators who have also graduated from the First Call Musician program inside the community with you, you’ll have an opportunity to get real-time feedback, engage in conversation, and build relationships with colleagues you’ll value for years to come. This is an opportunity for daily growth and collaborations that will help catapult your career!

ALL-ACCESS VIDEO PASS: 50+ WORKSHOPS ($3,000 VALUE)

Seeking inspiration post-program or need to hone a specific skill? Dive into Danny’s treasure trove: over 50 workshops spanning nearly 75 hours, packed with specialized content to boost your musicianship. From in-depth interviews for that extra spark of motivation to targeted workshops addressing your unique needs, Danny’s video library is your go-to resource for continuous learning and improvement, and you’ll have lifetime access.

ARTFUL PRACTICE: CASEY LIPKA'S GUIDED JOURNAL ($500 VALUE)

Unlock the full potential of your practice sessions with Casey Lipka's signature Practice Journal, with Casey’s live guidance during the program. More than just a notebook, this journal serves as your personal guide through the First Call Musician journey, offering structured reflection and actionable techniques from an expert in practice strategies.


This journal is designed to transform your practice from ordinary to insightful, every day. It aids in setting clear, attainable goals, tracking progress, and fostering a growth mindset, ensuring each session is not just time spent but time invested. With prompts and advice directly from Casey, you'll find new ways to approach challenges, reflect on successes, and maintain an effective practice regimen. The Practice Journal is your tool kit for turning every musical practice into a step toward mastery.

DANNY’S MUSIC LEARNING LIBRARY ($750 VALUE)

Explore Danny's library, which contains the six books he has published since 2014 focusing on jazz bass techniques and ear training. Danny is a passionate jazz educator who created these unique resources to fill major gaps in documented jazz bass pedagogy so that musicians all over the world could receive high-level guidance on areas including harmony, bass line construction, improvisation, and listening skills. Danny has spent thousands of hours exploring ear training and teaching strategies in order to distill these essential concepts in the most easy-to-learn format so that musicians can sidestep common pitfalls and start experiencing meaningful progress immediately. Whether you’re a bassist or not, these books contain invaluable information. You'll have forever access to these PDF books!

NO MORE WAITING FOR THE PHONE TO RING.

HERE’S WHAT’S WAITING FOR YOU INSIDE…

How It Works:

10 WEEKS. 5-PERSON TEAM. LIFELONG ACHIEVEMENT.

The First Call Musician: Express is a 10-week online program crafted to enhance your musical skills and knowledge. Designed for both convenience and depth of learning, it allows you to undergo a transformative musical journey. Central to this program is the First Call Musician: Express Portal, hosted through Skool, which provides seamless, 24/7 access to all program materials and resources in one organized location.

Participants in the program enjoy two weekly live coaching sessions via Zoom, enhanced by flexible pop-up office hours and optional private support in our dedicated Skool community. This is all designed to get you singing solfege, identifying chord changes, grasping harmonic destinations, and more within a matter of weeks. 

Live participation isn't mandatory, as all sessions are recorded and made available for lifetime access, ensuring you never miss out. The program is supported by a committed team comprising an administrator, two main coaches, and two feedback coaches within the Skool community — all experienced musicians — guaranteeing a personalized learning experience that goes beyond just being another participant.

Interested in knowing exactly what you get in the program? Read below.

KICKSTART BUNDLE ($500 VALUE)

Hit the ground running with this welcome package as it gives you the perfect opportunity to dive in immediately, with exercises and recorded trainings to help you prepare for the start of the program. You’ll also get a digital program workbook with all supplemental handouts and access to the First Call Musician Portal — ensuring you’ll stay hyper-organized throughout the program, so you can use every moment to make extraordinary progress.

LISTEN LIKE A PRO: 10 WEEKLY SESSIONS WITH DANNY ($10,000 VALUE)

These guided sessions are the centerpiece of the program. Beyond traditional lectures, these 90-minute workshops offer personalized growth and immediate feedback, developing the skills needed to help you stand out amongst other musicians. You'll form strong connections with peers and enhance your listening skills in real time, using cutting-edge techniques from Danny's musician-developed curriculum. No dusty textbooks or cookie-cutter methods — Danny’s teaching is carefully designed to take you from absolute beginner to limitless listening. These workshops give you everything you need to continue making progress years from now — even when no teacher is present.

With nearly 20 years of performance experience — and a decade spent teaching innovative techniques at universities globally — Danny’s content is crafted to deepen your musical journey and elevate you to first-call status.

A few highlights of the curriculum…

  • From the Ground Up: Rebuilding Your Core Listening Skills  

This is the launch point for our journey in First Call Musician: Express. This section of the program transforms your foundational listening skills, giving you a structure to hear the fundamental building blocks of any musical piece – regardless of difficulty. You’ll learn solfege (movable do) as your entry point into hearing fundamental chord changes, movements to other keys, and more. These are skills that you will actually be able to use in performance, and see results quickly!

  • Dictation Redefined: The Musician’s Guide to Flawless Transcription

Many musicians equate the term “dictation” or “transcription” with dread and fear, and rightfully so! It’s often presented in a way that doesn’t help you improve your listening –– instilling panic instead. It’s time to flip the script, so that you can leverage the power of this technique and quickly take your ears to elite status. Learn the tools that every jazz musician relies on to sharpen their ears –– a must-do practice that enhances results for musicians of all kinds, leading you to stand out and secure better performance opportunities. 

Together, we’ll dive into techniques that teach you how to write down what you hear on any recording — with absolute certainty — and without your instrument. Imagine mastering the art of learning music by ear and retaining it forever, transforming what was once a dreadful task into an empowering skill. Now, imagine bringing that confidence to the stage…

  • Beyond the Horizon: Unlocking the Secrets to Advanced Listening Techniques

Dive into the heart of what it means to truly excel in your musical hearing, and push your ears to the limit. Ever ponder the real depth of your listening abilities, or what makes truly remarkable ears? This section will answer those questions — and help you discover what’s possible for you! (Hint: it’s MUCH more than you thought!)

Danny will guide the First Call Musicians through a transformative process designed to stretch and enhance their listening capabilities to levels never before experienced.  Whether it's one, five, or ten years from now, these skills will still be making your music better.

AMPLIFY YOUR ARTISTRY WITH CASEY LIPKA ($7,500 VALUE)

Every musician battles with self-confidence and personal hurdles, especially when learning something new. That's exactly where Casey steps in. Elevate your musical journey with Casey Lipka, your dedicated First Call Musician Success Coach, who brings her wealth of experience as a respected singer, songwriter, and bassist.

Casey is an in-demand LA bassist, songwriter, and vocalist, known for her tours with CAKE and fronting Motown orchestras. She's transformed the musical paths of hundreds, coupling her rich performing experience with insightful coaching. 

Casey will help you redefine your relationship to music-making as your guide and success coach, bringing 18 years of first-hand expertise as a celebrated musician. Each week, she’ll lead you through transformative mindset shifts, personal reflections, and strategic planning for success.

Casey’s coaching transcends traditional methods, focusing on accountability, sustainable habits, and increasing self-awareness, ensuring you're progressing toward your musical goals. The supportive community she builds in her weekly co-working sessions will accelerate your growth exponentially. With Casey’s guidance, you’ll learn to practice efficiently and joyfully for a lifetime, in ways that resonate with your personal style.

Need a gentle push? Kick in the pants? Casey is here to help.

FRUSTRATION-FREE WEEKLY PRECISION PRACTICE PLANS ($1,500 VALUE)

Musicians hate wasting time, especially when it comes to practicing. And let’s face it, ear training often becomes discouraging because the progress isn't as visible as with other areas of practice, like working on technique or learning a new piece. It’s frustrating…unless you have a Precision Practice Plan.

Danny’s Precision Practice Plan provides you with a weekly detailed road map for advancing your listening skills in just 10-20 minutes a day. 100% tailored to the curriculum, it eliminates guesswork, ensuring your practice is focused and effective. You’ll receive tips on how to integrate these exercises seamlessly into your busy lives, with tons of supplemental audio guides, videos, and worksheets. 

Enjoy clear, measurable progress each week, with targeted advice to direct your practice. Take guesswork out of the equation and avoid plateaus while sustaining motivation. These sessions are a highlight for First Call Musician participants!

MIDWEEK MOMENTUM BOOST: DANNY'S PRE-RECORDED WEEKLY GUIDED SESSIONS ($2,500 VALUE)

Need a bit of extra support while you’re practicing during the week? Danny makes it super easy! Just follow along with his guided video practice sessions, and you’ll be progressing without having to do any planning. These sessions will add confidence to your practice routine, ensuring mastery with minimal additional effort…because who doesn’t love leveling up without breaking a sweat?

ONE PREMIER MUSIC INDUSTRY EXPERT MASTERCLASS ($2,000 VALUE)

As a musician, improving your listening skills means more than just understanding harmony and melody. It involves grasping other important elements like balance, tone quality, and blend. These factors are crucial — especially in studios or during recordings, where how you perceive and adjust sound can really make a difference. And let’s face it…recording and sharing your music is one of THE most exciting parts about being a musician.


Join Danny for an exclusive session with a top music industry expert who will explore the intricacies of listening from a fresh perspective, with a focus on recording techniques and studio practices. The special guest will share insider strategies and experiences from the recording industry, shedding light on a whole new dimension for applying your first-call ears. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this session will inspire you to not only enhance your performing skills but also unleash your creativity in the recording process, creating a lasting legacy of your music. By tapping into Danny's extensive network of leading experts, you'll receive a comprehensive and enriching experience.

DAILY FEEDBACK FORUM: EXPERT GUIDANCE & COMMUNITY SUPPORT ($3,000 VALUE)

Have burning questions, need feedback, or want to share something awesome you created? Our private Skool community is an essential resource that will keep you connected with an international community of musicians. With two expert musician-educators who have also graduated from the First Call Musician program inside the community with you, you’ll have an opportunity to get real-time feedback, engage in conversation, and build relationships with colleagues you’ll value for years to come. This is an opportunity for daily growth and collaborations that will help catapult your career!

ALL-ACCESS VIDEO PASS: 50+ WORKSHOPS ($3,000 VALUE)

Seeking inspiration post-program or need to hone a specific skill? Dive into Danny’s treasure trove: over 50 workshops spanning nearly 75 hours, packed with specialized content to boost your musicianship. From in-depth interviews for that extra spark of motivation to targeted workshops addressing your unique needs, Danny’s video library is your go-to resource for continuous learning and improvement, and you’ll have lifetime access.

ARTFUL PRACTICE: CASEY LIPKA'S GUIDED JOURNAL ($500 VALUE)

Unlock the full potential of your practice sessions with Casey Lipka's signature Practice Journal, with Casey’s live guidance during the program. More than just a notebook, this journal serves as your personal guide through the First Call Musician journey, offering structured reflection and actionable techniques from an expert in practice strategies.


This journal is designed to transform your practice from ordinary to insightful, every day. It aids in setting clear, attainable goals, tracking progress, and fostering a growth mindset, ensuring each session is not just time spent but time invested. With prompts and advice directly from Casey, you'll find new ways to approach challenges, reflect on successes, and maintain an effective practice regimen. The Practice Journal is your tool kit for turning every musical practice into a step toward mastery.

DANNY’S MUSIC LEARNING LIBRARY ($750 VALUE)

Explore Danny's library, which contains the six books he has published since 2014 focusing on jazz bass techniques and ear training. Danny is a passionate jazz educator who created these unique resources to fill major gaps in documented jazz bass pedagogy so that musicians all over the world could receive high-level guidance on areas including harmony, bass line construction, improvisation, and listening skills. Danny has spent thousands of hours exploring ear training and teaching strategies in order to distill these essential concepts in the most easy-to-learn format so that musicians can sidestep common pitfalls and start experiencing meaningful progress immediately. Whether you’re a bassist or not, these books contain invaluable information. Get lifetime access to these PDF books!

TOTAL PROGRAM VALUE:

MORE THAN $31,250!

Plus…

3 Fast Acting Bonuses For All Plans

Worth Over $12,750!

THE DANNY LIFELINE: VOXER OFFICE HOURS (LIMIT OF 20 SPOTS) ($5,000 VALUE)

EXPIRES ON TUESDAY, APRIL 2ND AT 2:00 PM ET (OR WHEN THE FIRST 20 SPOTS ARE FILLED)

The first 20 participants to join First-Call Musician: Express will receive the “Danny Lifeline.” We know it can be stressful to bump up against a new obstacle and not know how to overcome it. That’s why twice during the program, Danny will be available for Voxer Office Hours, during which you can send voice messages with any questions you might have. 

We've designed these office hours to help you get back on track quickly and efficiently. The Danny Lifeline is an incredible opportunity to get one-on-one access to him at the touch of a button…so you can reach your big goals faster than ever before! In mere minutes, you'll be ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way. You’ll be kissing procrastination, panic, and self-doubt goodbye!

MONEY-MAKING LIVE MASTERCLASS ($4,750 VALUE)

EXPIRES ON THURSDAY, APRIL 4TH AT 2:00 PM ET

So you get started making money right away…before the program even begins! Time to set and achieve a clear money goal and know the secret to landing high-quality gigs and surprising cash infusions!

Join Jennifer Rosenfeld, a business coach for musicians and performing artists –– who has helped musicians of all kinds grow their income from $10,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars –– for this LIVE Money-Making Masterclass!  She’ll be teaching this exclusive bonus session where you’ll discover new mindsets and practical strategies to expand your income as a musician, without compromising your values.

With this information, you’ll have the tools to recoup your investment in this program - within the 10 weeks of the program.

THE TECH EMPOWERMENT TOOL KIT: AMPLIFYING YOUR AUDIENCE REACH ($3,000 VALUE)

EXPIRES ON SATURDAY, APRIL 6TH AT 2:00 PM ET

Great musicianship is essential for landing better gigs...but what if nobody can find you? Let’s change that.

With the Tech Empowerment Tool Kit, you’ll skyrocket your progress and confidently showcase your talent using the power of technology… No advanced degree in computer science required!

In this bundle, you'll receive two components designed to assist you at every stage of your journey: a masterclass with tech specialist Michael Sherman from the Eastman School of Music, and a curated set of tech tools (cost-free to you)! Join Michael Sherman, a renowned technology specialist from the Eastman School of Music, for an immersive 60-minute workshop where he'll guide you through optimizing your online platform and music to captivate audiences… All while maintaining your artistic integrity.

You’ll gain FREE access to EarMaster and SightReading Factory for one full year to help you continue solidifying your progress during and beyond the First Call Musician: Express experience. Plus, Danny will share a recorded masterclass showing you how to harness these tools effectively, saving you valuable time. This tool kit will give you activities you can always work on — regardless of your schedule — skyrocketing your progress and keeping you in the game.

Don’t worry about your tech abilities either: both of these user-friendly tools are compatible with all computer systems, ensuring a seamless experience regardless of your tech proficiency.

REMINDER… THIS IS TIME SENSITIVE

Enrollment (& special pricing) ends

Sunday, April 7th at 2pm ET

-
Days
-
Hours
-
Minutes
-
Seconds

YOUR INVESTMENT

MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN

 

[SPREAD YOUR PAYMENT OVER 3 MONTHS]

$732 PER MONTH FOR 3 MONTHS


YOU GET ALL OF THIS:

  • Kickstart Bundle ($500 value)
  • Listen Like a Pro: 10 Weekly Sessions with Danny ($10,000 value)
  • Amplify Your Artistry with Casey Lipka ($7,500 value) 
  • Frustration-Free Weekly Precision Practice Plan ($1,500 value)
  • Midweek Momentum Boost: Danny's Pre-Recorded Weekly Guided Sessions ($2,500 value)
  • One Premier Music Industry Expert Masterclass ($2,000 value)
  • Daily Feedback Forum: Expert Guidance & Community Support  ($3,000 value)
  • All-Access Video Pass: 50+ Workshops ($3,000 value)
  • Artful Practice: Casey Lipka's Guided Journal ($500 value)
  • Danny’s Music Learning Library ($750 value)

TOTAL VALUE OF $31,250  +BONUSES FOR ONLY $732

REGISTER & PAY IN EASY INSTALLMENTS OVER 3 MONTHS

ONE-TIME PAYMENT

[SAVE UP TO $250 COMPARED TO THE PAYMENT PLANS]

PAY-IN-FULL PRICE: $1,997

BEST VALUE

YOU GET ALL OF THIS:

  • Kickstart Bundle ($500 value)
  • Listen Like a Pro: 10 Weekly Sessions with Danny ($10,000 value)
  • Amplify Your Artistry with Casey Lipka ($7,500 value) 
  • Frustration-Free Weekly Precision Practice Plan ($1,500 value)
  • Midweek Momentum Boost: Danny's Pre-Recorded Weekly Guided Sessions ($2,500 value)
  • One Premier Music Industry Expert Masterclass ($2,000 value)
  • Daily Feedback Forum: Expert Guidance & Community Support  ($3,000 value)
  • All-Access Video Pass: 50+ Workshops ($3,000 value)
  • Artful Practice: Casey Lipka's Guided Journal ($500 value)
  • Danny’s Music Learning Library ($750 value)


PLUS get the special PAY-IN-FULL-ONLY BONUS ($2,000 value): Networking to Bigger Stages LIVE Training (scroll to see more deets!)

TOTAL VALUE OF $31,250 +BONUSES FOR ONLY $1,997

MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN

[SPREAD YOUR PAYMENT OVER 6 MONTHS]

$375 PER MONTH FOR 6 MONTHS


YOU GET ALL OF THIS:

  • Kickstart Bundle ($500 value)
  • Listen Like a Pro: 10 Weekly Sessions with Danny ($10,000 value)
  • Amplify Your Artistry with Casey Lipka ($7,500 value) 
  • Frustration-Free Weekly Precision Practice Plan ($1,500 value)
  • Midweek Momentum Boost: Danny's Pre-Recorded Weekly Guided Sessions ($2,500 value)
  • One Premier Music Industry Expert Masterclass ($2,000 value)
  • Daily Feedback Forum: Expert Guidance & Community Support  ($3,000 value)
  • All-Access Video Pass: 50+ Workshops ($3,000 value)
  • Artful Practice: Casey Lipka's Guided Journal ($500 value)
  • Danny’s Music Learning Library ($750 value)

TOTAL VALUE OF $31,250 +BONUSES FOR ONLY $375

YOUR INVESTMENT

MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN

 

[SPREAD YOUR PAYMENT OVER 3 MONTHS]

$732 PER MONTH FOR 3 MONTHS


YOU GET ALL OF THIS:

  • Kickstart Bundle ($500 value)
  • Listen Like a Pro: 10 Weekly Sessions with Danny ($10,000 value)
  • Amplify Your Artistry with Casey Lipka ($7,500 value) 
  • Frustration-Free Weekly Precision Practice Plan ($1,500 value)
  • Midweek Momentum Boost: Danny's Pre-Recorded Weekly Guided Sessions ($2,500 value)
  • One Premier Music Industry Expert Masterclass   ($2,000 value)
  • Daily Feedback Forum: Expert Guidance & Community Support  ($3,000 value)
  • All-Access Video Pass: 50+ Workshops ($3,000 value)
  • Artful Practice: Casey Lipka's Guided Journal ($500 value)
  • Danny’s Music Learning Library ($750 value)

TOTAL VALUE OF $31,250  +BONUSES FOR ONLY $732

ONE-TIME PAYMENT

[SAVE UP TO $250 COMPARED TO THE PAYMENT PLANS]

PAY-IN-FULL PRICE: $1,997

BEST VALUE

YOU GET ALL OF THIS:

  • Kickstart Bundle ($500 value)
  • Listen Like a Pro: 10 Weekly Sessions with Danny ($10,000 value)
  • Amplify Your Artistry with Casey Lipka ($7,500 value) 
  • Frustration-Free Weekly Precision Practice Plan ($1,500 value)
  • Midweek Momentum Boost: Danny's Pre-Recorded Weekly Guided Sessions ($2,500 value)
  • One Premier Music Industry Expert Masterclass ($2,000 value)
  • Daily Feedback Forum: Expert Guidance & Community Support  ($3,000 value)
  • All-Access Video Pass: 50+ Workshops ($3,000 value)
  • Artful Practice: Casey Lipka's Guided Journal ($500 value)
  • Danny’s Music Learning Library ($750 value)


PLUS get the special PAY-IN- FULL-ONLY BONUS ($2,000 value): Networking to Bigger Stages LIVE Training (scroll to see more deets!)

TOTAL VALUE OF $31,250 +BONUSES FOR ONLY $1,997

MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN

[SPREAD YOUR PAYMENT OVER 6 MONTHS]

$375 PER MONTH FOR 6 MONTHS


YOU GET ALL OF THIS:

  • Kickstart Bundle ($500 value)
  • Listen Like a Pro: 10 Weekly Sessions with Danny ($10,000 value)
  • Amplify Your Artistry with Casey Lipka ($7,500 value) 
  • Frustration-Free Weekly Precision Practice Plan ($1,500 value)
  • Midweek Momentum Boost: Danny's Pre-Recorded Weekly Guided Sessions ($2,500 value)
  • One Premier Music Industry Expert Masterclass   ($2,000 value)
  • Daily Feedback Forum: Expert Guidance & Community Support  ($3,000 value)
  • All-Access Video Pass: 50+ Workshops ($3,000 value)
  • Artful Practice: Casey Lipka's Guided Journal ($500 value)
  • Danny’s Music Learning Library ($750 value)

TOTAL VALUE OF $31,250 +BONUSES FOR ONLY $375

Pay Your Tuition Up Front & Get the Exclusive Pay-in-Full Bonus:

NETWORKING TO BIGGER STAGES LIVE TRAINING ($2,000 VALUE)

Join Danny LIVE, where he’ll share his career journey of how he became a First Call Musician –– and how he went from playing in bars with no one listening to jamming with his musical heroes in just a few short years. It's not just a story — it's reality, and he’s here to guide you through creating this journey for yourself!

WE START ON
APRIL 25TH, 2024

REGISTER BEFORE Sunday, April 7th at 2:00 pm ET TO SAVE YOUR SPOT AND TRANSFORM YOUR EARS IN ONLY 10 WEEKS!

LOVE FROM OUR ALUMNI

Ric Vice

"This is the class. Trust me — I've taken all kinds of other classes and private lessons. None of them compare to this."

Jim Talaga

“I’ve been studying for four decades…and I’ve never found a teacher that has more of the complete package of how to be a total musician…"

Louise Shackleton

"You've given me the tools this year and the understanding and the confidence. It's been terrific, really, terrific… You’re a totally inspiring musician… Top... And you're a great teacher, which often doesn't go hand in hand. [If you’re thinking about the program] I would say just go for it!"

Bruce Banks

"I love working with Danny... I feel like an actual musician now.


If you are patient, and put the work in, you have a lot of 'aha!' moments... I can't tell you how many I've had... This has been life-changing for me.”

Edith K

"The quality of the teaching and presentation is really off the charts. Danny is a terrific bass player and just an amazing educator… I really felt that even though I was a beginner, I could grasp what he was saying and apply it to my own playing.”

Cooke Harvey

"My playing has improved exponentially. No one has a better grasp on how to organize and deliver the material that is essential to becoming a first call bassist.”

MORE PRAISE FOR THE FIRST CALL MUSICIAN EXPERIENCE…

Darwin Cadogan

"Don’t hesitate. Go ahead and jump into the deep end of the pool — you’ll be surprised at how fast, and how well you’ll be able to swim.


Working with Danny has been a joy. He's humble, patient... It's like you're working with one of your best friends. The program becomes like one big community. You'll definitely be happy with the end results.”

Nisse Palm

"I have not only become a better player, but I have gotten a greater ear — because in jazz, a good ear is worth much more than many other parts in the music.

Danny loves to teach, and it's very easy to get the knowledge that you need and to get the knowledge personalized for exactly what you need.”

Shawn Graham

"This program teaches things I don't think I could learn anywhere else — certainly not in a mainstream university educational system.

There were a number of things which I thought I already knew — but with Danny's perspective, that part of my playing has been totally revamped. I've gone from visualizing chord charts to hearing them. That's a huge benefit to me. I'm also able to hear the chord progressions from tunes I don't really know in a way I couldn't before.”

Ryan Molloy

"The result I'm most thrilled about is the progress my ears have made.

Danny provides a place where the teacher is committed to success as much as you are. Also, if you're thinking about working with Danny but live in an awkward time zone, I can say from personal experience that as long as you are willing to put in the work...it doesn't make a difference in the long run where you're located.”

Chris Northington

“You're going to have your mind opened up to choose your path, and to follow your path to get to where you want to be.


Unlike a lot of these other courses where they just try to teach you things or promise you the world, the only world that you're going to be promised here is YOU — you are that world.”

Bob Pizzutiello

“Danny's way of bringing us through different elements of music, understanding, reliance, and training of the ear has been hugely beneficial for me.

Overall I could not be happier with the class with Danny as a fabulous instructor, and with the members of the class that I shared this time with.”

LOVE FROM OUR ALUMNI

Ric Vice

"This is the class. Trust me — I've taken all kinds of other classes and private lessons. None of them compare to this."

Jim Talaga

“I’ve been studying for four decades…and I’ve never found a teacher that has more of the complete package of how to be a total musician…"

Louise Shackleton

"You've given me the tools this year and the understanding and the confidence. It's been terrific, really, terrific… You’re a totally inspiring musician… Top... And you're a great teacher, which often doesn't go hand in hand. [If you’re thinking about the program] I would say just go for it!"

Bruce Banks

"I love working with Danny... I feel like an actual musician now.


If you are patient, and put the work in, you have a lot of 'aha!' moments... I can't tell you how many I've had... This has been life-changing for me.”

Edith K

"The quality of the teaching and presentation is really off the charts. Danny is a terrific bass player and just an amazing educator… I really felt that even though I was a beginner, I could grasp what he was saying and apply it to my own playing.”

Cooke Harvey

"My playing has improved exponentially. No one has a better grasp on how to organize and deliver the material that is essential to becoming a first call bassist.”

MORE PRAISE FOR THE FIRST CALL MUSICIAN EXPERIENCE…

Darwin Cadogan

"Don’t hesitate. Go ahead and jump into the deep end of the pool — you’ll be surprised at how fast, and how well you’ll be able to swim.


Working with Danny has been a joy. He's humble, patient... It's like you're working with one of your best friends. The program becomes like one big community. You'll definitely be happy with the end results.”

Nisse Palm

"I have not only become a better player, but I have gotten a greater ear — because in jazz, a good ear is worth much more than many other parts in the music.

Danny loves to teach, and it's very easy to get the knowledge that you need and to get the knowledge personalized for exactly what you need.”

Shawn Graham

"This program teaches things I don't think I could learn anywhere else — certainly not in a mainstream university educational system.

There were a number of things which I thought I already knew — but with Danny's perspective, that part of my playing has been totally revamped. I've gone from visualizing chord charts to hearing them. That's a huge benefit to me. I'm also able to hear the chord progressions from tunes I don't really know in a way I couldn't before.”

Ryan Molloy

"The result I'm most thrilled about is the progress my ears have made.

Danny provides a place where the teacher is committed to success as much as you are. Also, if you're thinking about working with Danny but live in an awkward time zone, I can say from personal experience that as long as you are willing to put in the work...it doesn't make a difference in the long run where you're located.”

Chris Northington

“You're going to have your mind opened up to choose your path, and to follow your path to get to where you want to be.


Unlike a lot of these other courses where they just try to teach you things or promise you the world, the only world that you're going to be promised here is YOU — you are that world.”

Bob Pizzutiello

“Danny's way of bringing us through different elements of music, understanding, reliance and training of the ear has been hugely beneficial for me.

Overall I could not be happier with the class with Danny as a fabulous instructor, and with the members of the class that I shared this time with.”

OUR FAMOUS THRIVING MUSICIAN 100% REFUND GUARANTEE:

(IF YOU’VE SCROLLED THIS FAR, YOU’LL WANT TO MAKE SURE YOU READ THIS)

If you join First Call Musician:  Express and realize within the first week of the program that it’s not the right fit for you, no stress! Just send an email to team@firstcallmusician.com by May 1, and you’ll receive a full refund minus payment processing fees, no questions asked.

We’ll be sorry to see you go, but it’s more important that you feel great about your decision.

We're making this no-questions-asked 7-day refund policy available because we’re not asking you to decide yes or no today, we're asking you to make a fully informed decision. That's all. The only way you can make a fully informed decision is on the inside...not the outside. So get on the inside and see if everything we’ve said about First Call Musician: Express is true and valuable to you.

Then if it is, that's when you decide to keep it. If it's not for you, no hard feelings. You have up to seven full days from the date you purchase to let us know if you’re not happy. For any reason whatsoever, if you want your money back, we will give you a full refund (minus payment processing fees).

That’s right; you have the first seven days of the program (until May 1st) to decide if it’s not for you.

All you have to do is email team@firstcallmusician.com and request a refund. We will respond to you promptly and take care of everything. 

We can only offer this guarantee because we strongly believe in the quality of this experience. Danny is confident that when you sign up here, you're getting exactly what you need to improve your ears and become a first-call musician.

MEET YOUR GUIDE,  DANNY ZIEMANN

MUSICIAN, TEACHER, AUTHOR, & FOUNDER OF THE FIRST CALL MUSICIAN — AN ONLINE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR MUSICIANS

I've built my professional career playing and recording with some of the top jazz musicians, including Jorge Rossy, Sheila Jordan, Wolfgang Muthspiel, Andrew Carroll, Jeff Ballard, Danny Grissett, Wycliffe Gordon, Bobby Militello, Bill Dobbins, Nancy Kelly, Harry Allen, Matt Wilson, and loads more.

In every situation, my ears are the reason I repeatedly get called back for gigs. Even if there's no sheet music [common on every gig] and I'm unfamiliar with the tunes, I know I can learn the tunes and nail them — in real time.

I'm also a lifelong teacher; I've taught extensively at universities, workshops, and private lessons. As a teacher, my goal is to help the students gain confidence in their technique and musicianship so they can fully express themselves. I believe in creating a nurturing environment where students can thrive.

I've spent an equal amount of time practicing and researching the art of teaching to make music learning possible for everybody. I've worked with hundreds of diverse musicians.

I didn’t always have the total freedom to understand everything I hear — but I'm here to show you that it's a skill anyone can learn.

Why should you trust me to help you?⤵

Truthfully, there aren't many people who are as active as teachers as they are as performers. You know my playing credentials, but we know that not every great player is a great educator. 

HERE'S A SHORT LIST OF MY TEACHING QUALIFICATIONS...

  • I've published six books — including four on bass playing, one on ear training, and one on teaching.
  • I currently teach Jazz Ear Training, Jazz Solfege, Theory, and Ensembles at the University in Graz — one of the leading jazz universities in Europe — using my self-designed curriculum.
  • I've taught at major institutions including the prestigious Eastman School of Music, SUNY Oswego, and Eastman Community Music School, and have guest lectured all over the world.
  • I produced three video courses for Discover Double Bass.
  • I studied Music Pedagogy [with a focus on Curriculum Design & Research] and Jazz Performance at the Eastman School of Music, earning both a Bachelor's and Master's degree.
  • I was mentored by leading aural skills pedagogues for over 20 years.
  • I designed the First Call Bassist, one of the most innovative online programs where bassists completely transformed their playing and supercharged their ears.
  • I have tirelessly researched the absolute heck out of jazz bass pedagogy. Think long nights reading dissertations and articles, analyzing method books and videos, designing research studies, you name it...

Few things in teaching are fact. However, based on my experience teaching, performing, and researching, I can say with 100% certainty that...

  • Great hearing can be learned
  • Your ears are the ticket to high-quality, better performance opportunities
  • The right road map for you is a complex puzzle — but it can be made clear with a master teacher at your side, every step of the way
  • To sound like a first-call player, you have to practice like one. And, you'd be quite surprised at what many of the top players actually practice. Hint: it's nowhere near as complicated as you might think...but it is extremely effective.

I know what you need to become a successful, independently strong musician.

And that's why I developed the First Call Musician: Express program, to help musicians embrace their potential - and elevate their entire musical experience! 

MEET YOUR GUIDE,  DANNY ZIEMANN

MUSICIAN, TEACHER, AUTHOR, & FOUNDER OF THE FIRST CALL MUSICIAN — AN ONLINE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR MUSICIANS

I've built my professional career playing and recording with some of the top jazz musicians, including Jorge Rossy, Sheila Jordan, Wolfgang Muthspiel, Andrew Carroll, Jeff Ballard, Danny Grissett, Wycliffe Gordon, Bobby Militello, Bill Dobbins, Nancy Kelly, Harry Allen, Matt Wilson, and loads more.

In every situation, my ears are the reason I repeatedly get called back for gigs. Even if there's no sheet music [common on every gig] and I'm unfamiliar with the tunes, I know I can learn the tunes and nail them — in real time.

I'm also a lifelong teacher; I've taught extensively at universities, workshops, and private lessons. As a teacher, my goal is to help the students gain confidence in their technique and musicianship so they can fully express themselves. I believe in creating a nurturing environment where students can thrive.

I've spent an equal amount of time practicing and researching the art of teaching to make music learning possible for everybody. I've worked with hundreds of diverse musicians.

I didn’t always have the total freedom to understand everything I hear — but I'm here to show you that it's a skill anyone can learn.

Why should you trust me to help you?⤵

Truthfully, there aren't many people who are as active as teachers as they are as performers. You know my playing credentials, but we know that not every great player is a great educator. 

HERE'S A SHORT LIST OF MY TEACHING QUALIFICATIONS...

  • I've published six books — including four on bass playing, one on ear training, and one on teaching.
  • I currently teach Jazz Ear Training, Jazz Solfege, Theory, and Ensembles at the University in Graz — one of the leading jazz universities in Europe — using my self-designed curriculum.
  • I've taught at major institutions including the prestigious Eastman School of Music, SUNY Oswego, and Eastman Community Music School, and have guest lectured all over the world.
  • I produced three video courses for Discover Double Bass.
  • I studied Music Pedagogy [with a focus on Curriculum Design & Research] and Jazz Performance at the Eastman School of Music, earning both a Bachelor's and Master's degree.
  • I was mentored by leading aural skills pedagogues for over 20 years.
  • I designed the First Call Bassist, one of the most innovative online programs where bassists completely transformed their playing and supercharged their ears.
  • I have tirelessly researched the absolute heck out of jazz bass pedagogy. Think long nights reading dissertations and articles, analyzing method books and videos, designing research studies, you name it...

Few things in teaching are fact. However, based on my experience teaching, performing, and researching, I can say with 100% certainty that...

  • Great hearing can be learned
  • Your ears are the ticket to high-quality, better performance opportunities
  • The right road map for you is a complex puzzle — but it can be made clear with a master teacher at your side, every step of the way
  • To sound like a first-call player, you have to practice like one. And, you'd be quite surprised at what many of the top players actually practice. Hint: it's nowhere near as complicated as you might think...but it is extremely effective.

I know what you need to become a successful, independently strong musician.

And that's why I developed the First Call Musician: Express program, to help musicians embrace their potential - and elevate their entire musical experience! 

FAQ'S

YOUR LAST CALL

Alright — if you've made it to this point...

And you're prepared to revolutionize your listening skills…

Embrace amazing performance opportunities and create the best music of your life…

Navigate each performance and collaboration with confidence in your listening skills…

And truly fulfill your musical destiny on this planet…

What's holding you back?

I understand it might seem daunting...

But the true risk lies in doing nothing.

The true risk lies in waiting for change without taking steps toward it. 

Trust me — this is your moment…

And I'm here to guide you to that next stage of your musical career.

Let’s make magic together!

I’M READY TO JOIN!

YOUR LAST CALL

Alright — if you've made it to this point...

And you're prepared to revolutionize your listening skills…

Embrace amazing performance opportunities and create the best music of your life…

Navigate each performance and collaboration with confidence in your listening skills…

And truly fulfill your musical destiny on this planet…

What's holding you back?

I understand it might seem daunting...

But the true risk lies in doing nothing.

The true risk lies in waiting for change without taking steps toward it. 

Trust me — this is your moment…

And I'm here to guide you to that next stage of your musical career.

Let’s make magic together!