Let's make bass make sense.
I don't teach stuffy classroom theory. I teach the way real music actually works on the bandstand.
The Conversational BassistAbout Ted Gould III
As a working bassist, educator, and the creator of Ted Talks Bass, my approach is built from over two decades of real-world mileage. I’ve been lucky enough to hold down the bass chair for funk legend Zigaboo Modeliste (The Meters), direct international stages as a Musical Director in Bangkok, and share the studio with various Prince alumni.
You know the notes. But you don't know what to play. My whole training ecosystem is built to fix that exact problem for regular, everyday players who want to hold down a real groove.
From the Dive Bars to the Big Stages
Most of my time has been spent playing those everyday, blue-collar bass gigs—grinding it out on the West Coast and back home in New Orleans. I've spent years playing dive bars, backing artists on the way up, and holding it together for bands on the way down.
This isn’t about showing off chops or hiding behind academic fluff. It’s about knowing what actually works when the groove has to feel good.
I was a late bloomer!
I didn’t read music until I was 35. I quit my call center job and started washing windows just to give myself the flexibility to attend community college and pick up the upright bass.
At 41, I earned my B.A. in Music. Today, I reach players who need encouragement—especially mature players who think it’s too late to start, break out of a rut, or fully lock into the pocket.
Where to Start
Tools and training for players who want to stop guessing and start playing.
The Practice Lab
An interactive practice ecosystem built to help you implement core fretboard systems, master timing, and internalize groove styles at your own pace.
Enter the Lab
FUNK-tional Fitness
A practical 30-day wellness and bass practice program designed for mature players looking to play longer, move better, and build endurance.
Start Training
Bass Note Master
Visual interactive fretboard training application that eliminates navigation guesswork and builds instant neck muscle memory.
Master the Neck
The Pocket Shop
Original, custom-styled apparel, rhythm section gear, and premium musician merchandise tailored specifically for players who live in the pocket.
Shop MerchI am an artist.
Brother Theodore – St. Ann
A funky, soulful mix of jazz, rock, and groove-heavy goodness that feels like a love letter to New Orleans. Featuring Prince alumni Dr. Fink and Levi Seacer Jr.
Listen on Bandcamp
