Free Jazz Improvisation Workshop for Teens featuring Kelvin Walters

Young artists! Join Stax Music Academy this April for a free jazz improvisation masterclass for 6th–12th grade students, featuring NYC-based saxophonist & Juilliard graduate Kelvin Walters.

Event Details

The Art of Jazz improvisation Masterclass ft Kelvin Walters

When: Wednesday, April 22nd, 5:30 PM

Where: Stax Music Academy, 910 910 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38106

Admission is FREE – CLICK HERE TO RSVP and secure your spot today.

Who Should Attend?

This workshop is ideal for:

  • Student instrumentalists (6th–12th grade)
  • Beginners curious about jazz improvisation
  • Intermediate/advanced players looking to expand their musical vocabulary

Held at Stax Music Academy, this interactive session will guide students through the core elements of jazz improvisation in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Through live demonstrations, guided exercises, and real-time feedback, participants will learn how to:

  • Build strong melodic ideas
  • Navigate chord changes with confidence
  • Improve phrasing, articulation, and musical expression
  • Strengthen listening and communication within an ensemble
  • Begin developing their own unique improvisational voice

Whether you’re new to jazz or looking to refine your skills, this masterclass offers practical tools you can immediately apply to your playing.

Masterclass Highlights:

  • Fundamentals of Jazz Improvisation
  • Phrasing & Articulation
  • Understanding & Navigating Chord Changes
  • Building Melodic Ideas
  • Developing Your Improvisational Voice
  • Listening & Ensemble Interaction
  • Live Demonstration + Practical Application
  • Q&A with Kelvin Walters

Featured Artist: Kelvin Walters

Memphis native Kelvin Walters began playing saxophone at age 12 and is a proud alumnus of Stax Music Academy and Overton High School for the Creative and Performing Arts.

He continued his studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, before earning acceptance into the prestigious Jazz Studies program at Juilliard School, where he graduated in 2025.

Now based in New York City, Kelvin is an active performing artist who has shared the stage with acclaimed musicians and continues to mentor the next generation through education and community engagement.