Adult Jazz Improvisation Workshop

Adult Jazz Improvisation Workshop

FALL 2026: Begins October 5th
Monday Evenings 6:00-8:00pm

LOCATION:  VAPA Center, 700 North Tryon Street, Charlotte

Have you always wanted to learn how to improvise but didn’t know where to start?
Whether you played an instrument years ago or still play regularly, the JazzArts Adult Jazz Improvisation Workshop is designed to help adult musicians build confidence, develop new skills, and experience the excitement of jazz improvisation.

In this supportive, applied workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of jazz improvisation while playing alongside other musicians in a relaxed and encouraging environment. No previous jazz improvisation experience is required—just a basic ability to play your instrument and a willingness to learn.

Who Is This Workshop For?

This workshop is ideal for:

• Adult instrumentalists (18+)
• Former school or college band members
• Community and church musicians
• Hobby musicians looking for a new musical challenge
• Anyone interested in learning the art of jazz improvisation

*Basic proficiency on your instrument is recommended, but previous jazz experience is not required.

What You’ll Gain

By participating in this eight-week workshop, you’ll:

• Build confidence improvising with other musicians
• Learn the fundamentals of jazz improvisation in a supportive setting
• Strengthen your listening and ensemble playing skills
• Gain practical tools you can continue using long after the workshop ends
• Connect with a community of adult musicians who share your passion for music

Program Details

Length: 8 Weeks

When: Monday Evenings

Fall Session: October 5th – November 23rd 2026

Tuition: $395 per session

Your Instructor: Jerry Tolson

Jerry Tolson is professor emeritus of jazz studies and music education at the University of Louisville where he chaired the Department of Academic/Professional Studies, directed jazz ensembles, and taught jazz pedagogy, jazz history, and African American Music. Tolson’s articles have appeared in Music Educator’s Journal, Jazz Educator’s Journal, The Journal of Jazz Studies, and The Instrumentalist, and he has contributed to Teaching Music Through Performance in Jazz, Jazz Pedagogy: The Jazz Educator’s Handbook and Resource Guide, and The Jazzer’s Cookbook: Creative Recipes for Players and Teachers. He has also authored The Jazz Commandments: Guidelines for Jazz Style (Excelcia/Kendor) and African American Music: History and Heritage (Kendall-Hunt).

Tolson has recorded six CDs, Nu View, Back at the Track, Late Night Cruise, Black Sand Beach, Just Chillin’, and Fresh Squeezed; worked with artists such as Delfeayo Marsalis, Antonio Hart, Don Braden, Rufus Reid, and Benny Golson; and has appeared in Europe, Barbados, Brazil, and Trinidad with his group.

Got a question?

If you have any further questions, please call us at (704) 334-3900 or contact us at info@thejazzarts.org

Why JazzArts Charlotte?

For more than 15 years, JazzArts Charlotte has inspired thousands of students and audience members through exceptional jazz education and performance. This workshop extends that mission to adult musicians who have always wanted the opportunity to discover or renew their jazz sound.

It’s never too late to learn. Come (re)discover the music.