Hi, I'm Tom Lilienthal, a performing bassist and music educator based in Denver.
I've performed at the Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta with Kilimanjaro, the Monterey Jazz Festival in California, and at festivals in San Pancho and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. I've shared the stage with legendary artists including the Shirelles, the Drifters, and the Coasters. I also recorded and toured with Tom Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival.
I spent over a decade performing across the U.S., Mexico, and beyond, and served as a high school music director, building programs that developed musicians across multiple genres.
Today, I bring that real-world experience directly to my teaching, my performances, and my work with ensembles.
About the Studio
Bass lessons, group workshops, and professional performance services
Video of Tom explaining his teaching philosophy and approach to bass lessons.
I’ve spent my life playing, teaching and exploring the bass - from clubs and studios in the San Francisco Bay Area to jazz venues and music festivals across the U.S., Mexico and beyond, and now here in Colorado.
Music has taken me a lot of places, but one thing has always stayed the same: I love helping players grow, and I love making good music with good people
Musical Path and Experience
I studied bass formally in college, earned a California teaching credential, and spent years immersed in the Bay Area scene during one of its most creative periods. Over time, I've worked in jazz, fusion, blues, funk, and singer-songwriter settings, experience that shapes both my playing and my teaching.
Later, I lived for several years in San Miguel de Allende and the Banderas Bay region of Mexico, performing at festivals, backing touring artists, and recording.
Working With Students
I’ve taught everyone from first-time beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether we’re focused on technique, groove, tone, improvisation, or walking into a jam session with confidence, my goal is the same: help you sound like you — only more confident, more musical, and more aware.
I believe in clear guidance, practical tools, and a learning environment where progress feels exciting rather than intimidating.
Alongside teaching, I remain actively involved as a performing and recording bassist, working with bands, collaborators, and creative projects in Colorado and beyond. This real-world experience directly informs how I teach, rehearse, and prepare musicians for live musical settings.
Here in Colorado, I continue that work through private lessons and group workshops that let players stretch, apply their skills, and learn in a real-world musical setting.
For those interested in live music, recording work, or collaborations, more details are available on the Performance page.
If you’re looking for lessons, a supportive place to develop your improvisation chops, or a bassist for your next project, I’d love to connect. You can reach me anytime through the contact page.
“When I’m between projects, I can count on getting an in-depth intermediate bass and music lesson from Tom. His exercises are useful, and his delivery is very personable.”
— Bradley Robson