Sam grew up playing music in the Portland music scene, and has been active as a teacher, studio musician, and performer for over half his life.  His first endeavor into music occurred when he picked up the trombone in middle school band, followed by piano, bass, and guitar; all of which he still plays to this day. Sam studied music at Portland State University where he received his Bachelor’s of Music in Music Education (Hons). 

 

He is an active freelance performer and recording artist, and a private teacher and clinician. He has performed and toured with groups and artists such as Celisse, Ron Artis II & The Truth, Quadeca, quickly quickly, Stelth Ulvang (The Lumineers), Y La Bamba, greaterkind, Korgy & Bass, Mbrascatu, Brian Jackson, Darrell Grant, LaRhonda Steele, Mike Phillips, Lo Steele, Mae.Sun, Sarah Clarke, Haley Johnsen, Reva Devito, Kendall Lujan, The Eugene Ballet/Orchestra Next, and Portland Summerfest Opera. Recent touring highlights include playing on Willie Nelson's "Outlaw Tour" and Lake Street Dive's "Good Together Tour" with Celisse, and on Joe Bonamassa's "Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea" and Dave Koz's "Somma" Cruise with Ron Artis II.

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Sam still calls Portland his homebase but can be found touring both nationally and internationally year-round, or as a recording artist on a variety of records anytime, anywhere!

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Sam proudly endorses MTD Basses, and Bartolini Pickups.