Come learn to play jazz!

Do you play an instrument? Do you want to learn to play jazz? Have you wondered how to find somewhere to learn how to play jazz? We've got an answer for you: the McRae Park Jazz Workshop.

Started by the late Sam Favors (also one of the original organizers of the Freedom Jazz Festival) and now coordinated by Annie Favors, the Jazz Workshop has been going on at various Minneapolis parks for over 30 years. Currently we meet at the McCrae Park building in south Minneapolis on Saturdays from 1:00-4:00 PM between Labor Day and Memorial Day, and a weeknight by arrangement in the summer months when the park building is closed on Saturdays. With a "learn by doing" approach, we play mainly songs from the Great American Songbook, the Real Books and sometimes people bring in originals or other songs. In addition to meeting on Saturdays for three hours, we also periodically give performances at park functions, jazz festivals and the like.

Not sure you have what it takes? All you really need is some ability to play your instrument, basic to good familiarity with reading sheet music, and a desire to learn how to play jazz. If you sing, play piano, bass, guitar, drums, percussion, a horn, or whatever, we've got a spot for you.

Hope to see you there!