After I shared the story of my mother’s passing, I was so moved by the many heartfelt messages, shared stories, and kind words you sent in return. Thank you. Your support and openness made me feel less alone/crazed in this moment of loss. Many of you shared your own journeys through grief, memories, wisdom – and I appreciated every message. Thank you!

I know how fortunate I was to have her for so very long. She had me late in life, and I still had her so long. And how important those last few months were – full of music, love, stories, and so many quiet, meaningful moments (and a lot of suffering, too!). I’ll be processing it all for a long time. But this much I already know: I am deeply, overwhelmingly grateful.

With gratitude on my mind, our November Thanksgiving Special feels particularly meaningful. That brings me to a class I did for Thanksgiving- a one-off, extra session you can still get the recording of.

I chose “What a Wonderful World.” It perfectly captures the mood I’m in right now..

It’s a ballad full of rich changes, gentle surprises, and so much soul. This tune says it all – the sorrow and the sweetness, the joy and the pain of being alive. Musical gratitude.

And here’s the cool thing: we’re exploring it solo bass style as well.

If you’ve ever wanted to play a recognizable song – not just a bassline, but something complete, with melody and groove – this one’s for you. No band needed. Just you and your bass.

And hey – you’ll have time to work this one up for a family gathering… in case you needed to justify that bass purchase in front of any significant others

If you’d like to learn this, it’s part of our Live Practice with Ari archives and you can get it here. 

With gratitude and groove,

Ari