The Jazz Kiln

The Jazz Kiln is a series of six weekly jazz improvisation workshops open to musicians of all ages. These workshops are directed by noted jazz educator, composer and pianist Eddie Mendenhall.  Eddie believes that you can learn the jazz language by studying the history of jazz (listen!) and pursuing an enjoyable dedication to your instrument.  Each student may have a different path to proficiency on the instrument, but improvising is always about your ears and how you communicate your instincts, feelings, and meaning in performance.  These workshops are intended to help music students find their jazz voice, expressing themselves with confidence through improvisation and understanding their role within an ensemble.

Classes are held on the Kuumbwa stage on Tuesday nights. Due to the success of the inaugural series, a second series will be organized and run mid-July through August, class details and registration will be announced in June. Tuition for the series is $200, advanced enrollment only. Kuumbwa is committed to providing deserving young musicians the opportunity to pursue their passion for music in an intensive jazz instruction environment, regardless of their financial resources. Need-based scholarships are available to musicians 18 years and younger.

“Delighted that Kuumbwa is expanding the education programs for all ages.” ~ Bob Strickland