This year Coastal Jazz and Western Front presented the third annual New Improvisers Studio, a free week-long educational initiative for up to ten young musicians aged 17 to 24. The New Improvisers Studio supports collective explorations in musical improvisation through the mentorship of a world leading improviser from the Vancouver International Jazz Festival.

This year’s mentor is Patrick Shiroishi, a Los Angeles-based Japanese-American multi-instrumentalist and composer whose practice spans solo work and collaborations with artists including Chelsea Wolfe, Algiers, Xiu Xiu, Dirty Projectors, Che Chen, and claire rousay. Workshops will take place daily from June 30 — July 3, 2026, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Western Front. The week will conclude with a public performance on July 4, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. (noon).

Presented in association with Western Front. Thanks to the Deux Mille Foundation.

How to Participate

The New Improvisers Studio is open to musicians aged 17 to 24 from all musical backgrounds and experience levels.

To apply, please submit an expression of interest to [email protected] with the subject line “The New Improvisers Studio EOI” no later than May 23, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.

Applications may be submitted in writing, video, or audio format (maximum 500 words or 3 minutes in length). Applicants are also encouraged to include a short recording of themselves performing on their instrument.

Please address the following in your expression of interest:

  • What is your chosen instrument?
  • Describe your musical background and experience.
  • Why are you interested in exploring improvisation?
  • What is your ambition as a musician and how will this opportunity help you to achieve this?

The program can accommodate ten participants. Successful applicants will be notified by June 1, 2026.

Patrick Shiroishi

Patrick Shiroishi is a Los Angeles-based saxophonist, composer, and improviser known for his intense and exploratory approach to music. Over the last decade, he has become a foundational figure in the LA experimental scene through solo work and collaborations with projects including The Armed, Wild Up, and Upsilon Acrux. His work has been presented at institutions including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and he has toured internationally in a wide range of musical configurations.