Is it possible to just make the taskbar somewhat transparent
I would do it by making a new image transparent. However you are in luck. open Windowblinds. Look for the skin should be near the top. Mouse over it and left click to highlight it and you will see it pictured above. Click on "modify Style". Click on Transparency above. You will see 4 locations you can adjust. The second one from the left is the Taskbar as it shows on the image. Just move the slider to the left till you get the effect you are looking for. As you move it to the left you will see it change as you move it on the image.