Learning Out Loud: An Introduction
My name is John Omernik, and I serve as the President of Traditions of Jazz. Beyond that role, I’m also the bass player, trombone player, and audio technician for our outreach group, A Joyful Little Band.
This post kicks off something we’re calling Learning Out Loud — a space where our board members, local musicians/volunteers, and special guest musicians will share not just our successes, but the process, the practice, the challenges, and even the failures that shape our journey with this music.
My Upright Bass Journey
I came to the upright bass during Covid, when my sons Gavin (drums) and Eli (piano) began learning their instruments. I wanted to be part of the family music-making, and the bass called to me. I’m mostly self-taught, but I’ve quickly realized how important the bass is, not just holding down the notes, but providing the foundation for the groove of the band.
I draw inspiration from some incredible New Orleans bass players — Tyler Thomson (Shotgun Jazz Band and more), Richard Moten (Preservation Hall Jazz Band), Mark Brooks (Preservation Hall Jazz Band), and Julie Schexnayder (Shake ’Em Up Jazz Band). Their playing reminds me that the bass isn’t just background — it’s heartbeat, pulse, and drive.
I’m still very much learning, but I love the challenge of listening closely, locking in with the drums, and supporting the horns. I am still early in my bass learning journey, and I hope to connect with those who are at the point where they see where they want to go, and want help taking the next steps.
Returning to the Trombone
In another lifetime (back in 1999), I was a music major studying trombone. But after switching majors, I put the horn away for more than two decades. Two years ago, I realized that while I had found my instrument, I hadn’t yet found my music. That changed when I discovered traditional New Orleans jazz.
In this style, the trombone plays a unique role — a kind of bridge between the steady foundation of the bass and the melodic lines of the horns. Sometimes it’s playful and even a little mischievous, with those long tailgating slides that can draw smirks or laughs from the rest of the band. That mix of strength and humor fits my personality perfectly, and I love stepping into that role within the band.
Picking the trombone back up has been both humbling and joyful. I’m constantly inspired by players like the late Lucien Barbarin, Haruka Kikuchi, Charlie Halloran, Dion Tucker, and Ronell Johnson. Their sound, energy, and sheer love for the music show me what’s possible — and keep me striving to grow every time I play.
Why “Learning Out Loud”?
This blog isn’t about polished performances or finished products. It’s about making the process visible. In the weeks ahead, I’ll be sharing:
What I’m working on each week, whether it’s bass lines, trombone exercises, or sound work with our band.
Deep dives into songs I’m listening to, and how I try to break them down and learn from them.
The challenges I run into, and the ways I try to overcome them.
Even the failures — the times I don’t meet my goals, but learn something in the process.
Jazz has always been about community, about showing up together and making something in the moment. This blog is our way of inviting you into that process — not just the polished stage, but the rehearsal room, the practice shed, and the second line where everyone has a place.
Thanks for reading, and thanks for walking this journey with me. I’m excited to see where it leads.
— John