Background, professional training and performance history
Jeff Langston has been playing bass and guitar for over 20 years. He studied bass as a performance major at Berklee College of Music. Jeff is currently a member of the group Antony and the Johnsons. The band’s 2005 release entitled ‘I am a Bird Now’ won Britain’s prestigious Mercury Prize. Music from the album featuring Jeff’s bass playing was used in the movie ‘V for Vendetta’. The group has performed in renowned venues around the world including Carnegie Hall, La Salle Pleyel, and the Royal Albert Hall. The band recorded at Abbey Road studios for a taping of the television series ‘Live at Abbey Road’ (UK). Other TV appearances include The Late Show with David Letterman, Jonathon Ross (UK), The Culture Show (UK), and as a featured artist on Canal Plus (FR). The group’s most recent full length release entitled ‘The Crying Light’ (2009) debuted on the European Billboard charts at no.1, and was named by Spin Magazine as one of the 20 best albums of the year. Both with the Johnsons and as a freelance bass player, Jeff has had the privilege to perform with many wonderful artists including Lou Reed, Boy George, Rufus Wainwright, Marc Almond, Shawn Colvin, Phoebe Snow, Roger McGuinn, and many more.
Artist statement and teaching philosophy
"As a teacher, I focus on matching curriculum to each player’s abilities and interests. Lessons include ear training, music theory, technique, and repertoire. I believe it is important to know not only what, but how to practice. Students will be taught strategies to structure their practice time to better maximize their opportunity for improvement. I encourage my students to strongly pursue what they love most in music. My goal is to help each instrumentalist achieve musical growth while fueling the joy that comes from playing music."
Instruments & classes taught
Jeff teaches electric bass, electric and acoustic guitar for all ages.