Educational Background/Training

• James Madison University – BM – Jazz Studies (magna cum laude)
• Boysie Lowry Living Jazz Residency (2 years) – composition/jazz studies with jazz masters Warren Wolf, Aaron Parks, Ari Hoenig, Aaron Diehl, Aaron Goldberg, Don Glanden

About the Artist/Ensemble

Quentin Walston is an active composer, pianist, and music educator from Brunswick, Maryland. He performs as a solo pianist and with his jazz trio and, blending memorable melodies and striking rhythms with adventurous improvisations. Quentin believes jazz is enjoyed more when audiences have insight to what is happening in the music. Matching his exciting piano playing to engaging stories about the selections, Quentin’s listeners experience the passion that goes into each song.

Quentin Walston has released a full-length album, two EPs, and composed multiple large-scale works. His original music has also been featured on NPR and PBS stations and multiple podcasts. He has written pieces for Youth Orchestras, Music Schools, and a cross-discipline suite featuring visual artwork matched to his music.  As an educator, Quentin teaches classes, workshops, and private lessons. He also teaches through performance, where he plays and describes the styles and musicians in jazz’s dynamic history.

Educational Program Description

WORKSHOPS & RESIDENCIES

You Can Play Jazz! (K-8)
Students get to dive into the world of jazz! Through listening, activities, and lots of fun examples played by Quentin on his keyboard, students will be immersed into the United States’ original improvised music. Students will learn to play swing rhythms, improvise jazzy melodies, and identify different styles of jazz music from across the genre’s dynamic history.

Songwriting Workshop (K-6)
An activity and music-filled workshop! Quentin introduces children to the accessible techniques for creating their own music. An interactive workshop, students are encouraged to make music alongside Quentin with bells, recorders, percussion, or any other instruments available to them. Perfect for Kindergarten through 6th grade, but can be modified for older age groups.

Band Workshop (6-12)
Perfect for Wind, Brass, or Jazz Band or in break-out sessions, Quentin helps students grow using his experience as a jazz musician, composer, and bandleader. Participants hone skills of playing together, bringing out the beauty of their music, and other effective techniques that apply to any piece of the band’s repertoire! Ideal for Middle and High School bands.

Art of Improvisation (teen-adult) 
Quentin Walston leads hands-on improv training for musicians of all instruments and skill levels. This masterclass develops improvisation techniques, facilitates ensemble playing/listening, and equips participants with tools for continued jazz growth beyond the workshop. 

All of Quentin Walston’s offerings are at a flat rate of $750 per day. Please contact Quentin for half-day pricing or regarding budgetary needs.

Fees

All of Quentin Walston’s offerings are at a flat rate of $750 per day. Please contact Quentin for half-day pricing or regarding budgetary needs.

Audiences

• All Ages