Jazz Improvisation Day with Dan Banks – a friendly, practical workshop for adult beginners & improvers.

Have you ever wanted to feel more confident improvising in a jazz style — but didn't know where to start? Join us for a friendly and supportive Jazz Improvisation Day with jazz pianist, composer and educator Dan Banks, taking a deep dive into the 12-bar blues — the foundation on which so much jazz improvisation is built.

This workshop is open to teens and adults of all instruments, whether you're a complete beginner to jazz improvisation or want to develop your confidence and musical toolkit in a relaxed, ensemble-focused setting.

During the day you'll explore:

the structure and feel of the 12-bar blues

improvising over blues progressions

listening and interaction in small groups

practical exercises that demystify jazz language

playing together in a supportive environment

Whether you're new to jazz or have dipped your toe in before, this workshop meets you where you are and helps you take the next step in improvising with others.

About Dan Banks

Dan Banks is a jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and educator based in Medway, Kent.

Originally self-taught, Dan went on to study classical piano and jazz piano, theory, arranging and composition, and holds a Master’s degree in performance with distinction from the London College of Music.

He has performed regularly with a wide range of British jazz musicians and appears frequently in the rhythm section at jazz venues such as Trevor Taylor’s Jazz825 club in Southend-on-Sea.

Dan also leads his own ensembles and has released albums of original jazz compositions, drawing on influences from classic and contemporary jazz styles.

He is an experienced teacher and clinician, with a deep understanding of both jazz theory and the practical skills players need to unlock their own creative voice.

https://danbanks.co.uk/

Who is this for?

🎶 Adult musicians of any instrument

🎷 Beginners and “beginner/improver” jazz improvisers

🎼 All levels welcome — from those who have never improvised before to those who want more confidence in creative playing

U18s are also welcome; we have DBS checks and safeguarding policies in place.

What to bring

Your instrument and stand

A notebook or manuscript paper

Packed lunch (FVH has kitchen facilities)

Openness to listening and learning

Description supplied by the event organiser.