Jazz and Improvisation Techniques
for Every Teacher and Every Student

November 15, 2025

10:00 a.m., JMU, Forbes Performing Arts Center, Room 1115

Does jazz improvisation feel out of reach?  Maybe you know a solo scale that might get your students started, but you are not sure where to go next.  Maybe you avoid jazz & improvisation altogether.   Join jazz pianist and educator Quentin Walston as he gives HMTA teachers skills and techniques to bring jazz improvisation into lessons, for any age or ability level.  Improvisation is a way for students to express themselves, and you don’t need to be a jazz expert to unlock this creativity in your students!  Presentation will include multiple improv activities for lessons, foundational jazz theory, and time for questions so teachers feel equipped to share fun and exciting jazz music with their students!
​--Quintin Walston