Improv Workshop

Saturday, April 12th at Roots Music Project

2:00pm to 3:30pm

Dive into the art of musical spontaneity with guitarist Caton Sollenberger in this hands-on improvisation workshop! Whether you're a beginner eager to explore or an experienced player looking to expand your creative toolkit, you'll discover how to express yourself confidently through improvisation across genres like rock, blues, jazz, and hip-hop.

Improvisation is the art of spontaneous musical creation—living in the moment and responding instinctively to sound. In this workshop, we’ll explore the foundations of free improvisation and how it applies across genres like rock, blues, jazz, and hip-hop. Through guided exercises, students will experiment with both open-ended and structured improvisation, learning how constraints such as genre, key, and time signature can enhance creativity rather than limit it. By engaging in hands-on playing, participants will gain a deeper understanding of core musical techniques, including groove, melody, harmony, and rhythmic feel.

Building on these skills, we’ll dive into group improvisation, demonstrating how listening and interaction shape musical conversations. Activities like call-and-response, layered orchestration, and “pass the ball” exercises will highlight the importance of musical dialogue and dynamics. We’ll also discuss methods for refining improvisational ability, such as transcribing, developing motifs, and balancing technical dexterity with emotional expression. Whether you're new to improvisation or looking to expand your creative toolkit, this workshop will provide practical tools to help you improvise with confidence and musicality.

Caton Sollenberger is a skilled guitarist and musician known for his technical proficiency and versatility across various genres. He developed his craft at Berklee College of Music, where he deepened his understanding of music theory, composition, and performance. Frequently hired as a guitarist in the Denver area and beyond, Sollenberger has built a reputation for his engaging live performances and his ability to adapt to different musical styles.

In addition to his education, he has been teaching private lessons since high school, sharing his knowledge and passion with students of all levels. He continues this legacy through his involvement in the Roots Music Project's TEMPO Program, where he helps nurture young musical talent. His work encompasses jazz, rock, blues, and progressive music, showcasing his broad musical influences.

Roots Music Project Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit local music incubator based in Boulder, Colorado. We believe in the power of music to make the world a better place. All music starts locally. We empower artists, fans, and venues to connect and create a thriving and inspiring local music scene.

4747 Pearl St, Ste V3A Boulder, CO 80301 Search for "Roots Music Project" on Google Maps.

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