While it tends to be primarily jazz musicians and liturgical organists who still use improvisation in their daily work, all musicians can benefit from some emancipation from the printed score. The First Thursday presentation on 4 April 2024 will discuss some ways creating music spontaneously and in new notation can be incorporated in the private music studio, and how such techniques can enhance other aspects of teaching and performance.

About the Presenter

Brett McKern

Dr Brett McKern holds degrees in music, education, theology and two doctorates in musical composition, and maintains an international career as a composer and organist. Brett has taught at primary, secondary and tertiary levels. He currently lectures in music at university, examines for the AMEB, and consults on music and music education. Brett also maintains his own teaching studio, and former organ, music theory and composition students have gone on to read music at university, and a number are now professional musicians.

First Thursdays

These regular professional development sessions were originally the brainchild of MTA Member Annette Allerding, who wanted music teachers to be able to meet and share ideas. Originally named Keys, Cakes and Conversation (KCC) the group went online during Covid, and eventually reached numbers often in excess of 50 teachers, meeting each month on Zoom. The Music Teachers' Association of NSW is delighted to bring these sessions into our fold. We want the sessions to continue to be free to our members, but we also believe it is important to pay presenters for their valuable time. So we ask you to consider a giving a donation towards the costs if you are able. You will be given the option to donate when you book your place.