"I find that the jazz ensembles are great for working on my ensemble playing and improv skills with very supportive people. It's a chance to get tips, techniques and experience playing for soloing with live musicians. And the small ensembles gives everyone a chance to do a lot more improvising than you normally would with bigger bands." - Mitch V.
“The jazz ensemble experience has been a real confidence-builder, providing me with a foundation of basic jazz theory that is challenging but not paralysing. The focus is on developing one’s ability to improvise, and in that, Mike is very empathetic and encouraging. An incredible listener, he points out both specific strengths and areas for future steps in remarkable detail for each musician. I’ve seen my playing improve in other band contexts as well.” - Susan S.