Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA) is thrilled to welcome John  Paulson to our music faculty. MCA is now accepting registrations for private jazz improvisation lessons for musicians in middle school through adult who want to lean how or improve their ability to improvise. Please read on below for a course description and to learn more about Dr. John Paulson.

Jazz Improvisation! 
Maybe you’ve been playing your instrument for a while (or haven’t played in a very long time) and you want to know how to improvise. Great! Anyone can improvise. Whether it’s jazz, blues, rock, funk or bluegrass, Dr. John Paulson can guide you to feeling confident soloing on any instrument and any style. Register today for individual online or in person lessons (when it’s safe).

Ages: Middle School- Adult

Instructor: John C. Paulson

When: Lessons are arranged between instructor and student at a time that works for both parties.

Fee: 4- 30 minute lessons- $76, 8- 30 minute lessons- $144, 12- 30 minute lessons- $204 (best deal)

To register, please fill out this registration form and instead of selecting a class and making payment please fill out the questions in the form relating to your instrument (list your instrument and that you are interested in Jazz Improvisation), your musical experience, Preferred Instructor (John Paulson), and optionally list your preferred days.  Current MCA Families- you can just email mca@smumn,edu to inquire or send us a message through the parent portal.

About the Instructor:

John Paulson started his musical journey in Rochester, MN playing in area rock bands and participating in school music groups.  He migrated west and got his B.M and M.M from the University of Utah and later completed his DMA in music education from the University of Washington.  He started playing the saxophone at age 10, studied flute and clarinet with symphony players and jazz improvisation in New York.   After 35 years of full time teaching, Dr. Paulson retired from Saint Mary’s University and taught jazz studies at Winona State University for five years. Now, he’s excited about becoming a part of the programs offered by MCA. Visit his website at www.paulsonjazz.com for more.