Jesse Boyd is one of the busiest players with one of the most impressive resumes on the New Orleans music scene. His flawless technique, flowing lines and great sensitivity combine to deliver raw and dynamic live performances. As the son of a preacher and pianist, Boyd began playing in church – first on piano and then moving to bass at age 8. Boyd was 12 when he made his first gospel recording. At 18 he moved to LA, discovered rock and played with many touring bands. He ended up in New Orleans receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree from Loyola University and his Masters in Jazz Performance at the University of New Orleans. His mentor, the great New Orleans Bassist Bill Huntington, helped him land a teaching job at Loyola University, where he currently heads classes in bass, improv, theory and combo. In addition to the Charmaine Neville Band, Boyd performs regularly with countless other musicians including Ellis Marsalis, Tony Dagradi, Ingrid Lucia, Shannon Powell, Topsy Chapman, Leah Chase, Herlin Riley, and Mike Pellara. Boyd is also a much sought after studio bassist. His recent recordings include include three complete albums with Ingrid Lucia, a recording with Michael Pellera and Joe Dyson, and his own CD of original compositions “True Stories”.

I love music and I love teaching.

My teaching style is called "student centered." It means that we are going to get involved together in the learning process. We determine student goals, strengths and weaknesses and create a plan. There's also lots of room for on-the-spot fixes.