Kamilo Velasquez
About
Kamilo is a passionate musician and multi-instrumentalist with over 21 years of experience in the music industry. His musical journey began at age of 6, focusing on vocal technique, and at 11, when he discovered his love for the electric bass. By the age of 12, he recorded his first artistic performance in Medellín, Colombia, under the Miami-based label Mock & Roll, Inc., marking the start of a vibrant career.
Kamilo pursued formal education in music technology, production, and bass performance at Broward Community College in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, from 2010 to 2013. During his time there, he successfully passed the TOEFL proficiency exam and engaged in ESL courses. He was honored to be elected as a Sea Hawk Singer by the Director of Choral and Vocal Activities at Broward College and learned music harmony and business under the mentorship of renowned producer Carey Kleiman, whose impressive credentials include collaborations with legendary artists such as Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra.
With a robust teaching background, Kamilo has dedicated the last 12 years to nurturing new talents as a private on-site music educator at SoloRock S.A.S. Music Academy since 2013. Here, he specializes in bass performance, harmony, and ensemble coaching. Additionally, he served as a university-level Bass Performance Professor at the Escuela de Audio y Sonido de Colombia (EAS) from 2015 to 2018, where he helped shape aspiring musicians and lead youth bands on their first recording productions and live sessions. His experience also extends to performing in various Latin ensembles, including La Raza Latin Jazz Ensamble, while writing and touring with the Electro-core band Invaders Must Die from 2013 to 2017. This band released one album and performed at notable festivals such as Altavoz Fest Internacional 2014 and Rock Al Parque Fest 2016 in Colombia.
In response to the pandemic, Kamilo transitioned to offering online lessons, along with designing masterclasses that cater to the diverse needs of his students. This hybrid approach allows him to adapt to various learning environments effectively.
Recently, he showcased his skills as an independent artist at ComiCon Colombia 2023 along with Sorekara Anisong Collective, where he impressed audiences by blending Japanese jazz with Latin influences. He has also contributed as a session bassist for multiple projects, collaborating with bands and ensembles like Disorbita Jazz Fusion and Amapola Orquesta.
Kamilo’s teaching philosophy centers on personalized education, making music accessible to students of all ages—children, youth, and adults alike. His diverse experience in teaching and performing equips him with the tools to guide his students in discovering their potential and passion for music.
Join Kamilo on this exciting musical journey, and together, you will explore your unique talents and develop as a musician!
Teaching Style
As an educator, Kamilo emphasizes a personalized approach, tailoring his teaching methods to accommodate the unique needs and aspirations of each student. His primary goal is to enhance students' musical skills while cultivating emotional autonomy, discipline, and self-esteem through a solid foundation in musical languages. This approach not only equips students with technical proficiency but also encourages them to express their individuality through music.
Kamilo creates a supportive and engaging learning environment that invites students to explore their musical interests. He fosters a sense of curiosity and creativity, allowing students to develop their talents in a way that resonates with them personally. Through this nurturing atmosphere, students feel empowered to take risks and experiment with their musical expression, which is crucial for their artistic growth.
As a caring yet demanding teacher, Kamilo is passionate about nurturing his students' growth. He instills a deep sense of discipline and commitment while encouraging them to pursue their musical passions. His extensive knowledge of various genres, particularly those derived from rock, including funk, blues, reggae, heavy metal, pop rock, and disco, enriches the learning experience. This diverse expertise allows him to introduce students to a wide range of musical styles, helping them find their unique voice.
Moreover, Kamilo's passion for Fusion Jazz and Japanese rock not only enhances his teaching repertoire but also provides students with exposure to eclectic musical influences. This diversity encourages students to appreciate different genres and understand the interconnectedness of musical styles, fostering a more holistic musical education.
In summary, Kamilo's teaching style is characterized by a commitment to personalized education, emotional support, and a diverse musical background. His ability to adapt his methods to individual student needs, while maintaining high expectations, ensures that each student receives a well-rounded and enriching musical education.
Curriculum
As an educator, Kamilo emphasizes a tailored approach to meet the unique needs of each student. His teaching method focuses on enhancing musical skills while fostering emotional autonomy, discipline, and self-esteem. By creating a supportive and engaging learning environment, he encourages students to explore their musical interests and develop their talents. Kamilo balances being both caring and demanding, ensuring that students receive guidance while also challenging them to reach their full potential. His extensive knowledge of genres, including rock, funk, blues, reggae, heavy metal, pop rock, disco, Fusion Jazz, and Japanese rock, enriches his lessons, allowing for a diverse and dynamic musical education.
Recommended Student Texts and Books.
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"The Jazz Theory Book" by Mark Levine
- An essential resource for understanding jazz theory, which can enhance students' improvisational skills and musical understanding.
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"The Real Book" (Sixth Edition)
- A collection of lead sheets for jazz standards, perfect for students looking to expand their repertoire.
Credentials & Affiliations
Mock & Roll, Inc. Recording Singer.
SoloRock S.A.S. Music Academy, Private Tutor.
Escuela de Audio y Sonido de Colombia (EAS) Bass Performance Professor.
Invaders Must Die, Electro-core band. Song Writer and Bassist.
La Raza, Latin Jazz Ensamble. Bassist and Director.
Disorbita Jazz Fusion, Session Bassist.
Sorekara Anisong Collective, Session Bassist.
Amapola Orquesta, Bassist and Director.
