Masterclasses · Lessons · Workshops

Teaching

Learn from five-time GRAMMY nominee Karrin Allyson.

Vocalist, pianist, composer and band leader Karrin Allyson has been recognized as one of the leading figures in American music since she began performing in the midwest in the 1980s. Since signing with Concord Records she has gone on to record eighteen albums, along the way picking up 5 Grammy Nominations for Best Jazz Vocal Album.

In addition to playing at all the leading American jazz venues, she has repeatedly toured Europe, Brazil, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Israel. Most recently she followed her major tour of the west Coast with appearances at New York City's Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Current Academic Positions

  • Head of Jazz Vocal Department

    Hartt School of Music / Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz, University of Hartford

  • Faculty Position

    William Patterson University

Teaching Approach

Karrin feels passionate about sharing this music. She has given countless masterclasses, clinics and private lessons.

Her practical experience is inspiring, traveling the globe with her band, and continuing to record new material.

This past year Karrin Allyson was honored by receiving the title of Honorary Doctor of Music from her alma Mater, the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Featured Performance

Karrin performs her original song, SHAKE IT UP with the University of Nebraska at Omaha Jazz Band. Arrangement by Darrin Pettit.

Masterclass Overview

Class Format

  • One-on-one sessions with Ms. Allyson
  • Group sessions with her band of accomplished teachers
  • Available for both singers and instrumentalists
  • Individual or ensemble instruction

Core Topics

  • Choosing and building repertoire
  • Key selection and arrangement
  • Interpretation techniques
  • Band leadership skills
  • Standard song interpretation variations

Recent Educational Sessions

Notable Institutions

  • Berklee College of Music
  • The New School
  • University of Miami
  • SUNY Purchase
  • Temple University

Festivals & Camps

  • Woodstock VT Interplay Jazz
  • Vermont Jazz Center
  • The Seasons Festival
  • Rocky Mountain Vocal Camp
  • Interplay Jazz Camp

Special Programs

  • Miami Young Artists
  • NOHO MA
  • Private Masterclasses in NYC
  • North High School, Omaha
  • McNally-Smith College

Workshop Philosophy

Our workshops focus on helping you find your own original path to making music. We believe that creativity comes from necessity, and we help you explore:

  • Your personal history and cultural background
  • Your musical influences - past and present
  • Integration of multiple instruments and skills
  • Building on your performance experience
  • Essential music theory, including the Circle of Fifths

Our philosophy: Come as you are, willing to be who YOU are through MUSIC.

Teaching Approach

The New York Times

Stephen Holden

"There are so many ways to savor Karrin Allyson's artistry. Start with her voice, its rare clarity and resonant timbre....Everything she sings seems to rise from a smile."

The Village Voice

Gary Giddins

"Allyson coolly stakes her claim. She brings a timbre that is part ice and part grain — incisive, original, and emotionally convincing."

Student Testimonials

"Whether in master classes, group workshops, or private lessons, learning from Karrin is a joy and a revelation. She meets you where you are, musically, and her superb teaching, high expectations, and sense of humor enable you to accomplish more than you could have imagined."

— Susan Brison

"Karrin has a no nonsense approach to teaching but also with gentle instruction. This is a great combination of taking us students seriously and guiding us to better performances."

— Rosemary Miller

"I am learning how to communicate with my band mates on stage – she's teaching me how to lead my band. I feel her love of the music through her teaching."

— Asako Takasaki

"Karrin is a very warm, compassionate teacher. Her teaching is effective and she always gives me valuable input."

— Hiroko Kanna

Unlock your musical potential with GRAMMY-nominated Karrin Allyson.

Dive into exclusive workshops, master your craft, and evolve under a legend's guidance. Act now!

Email Cynthia at Cynthia@aiArtists.com now to book your spot!

Contact Information

Booking Contact:

Cynthia Herbst

American International Artists

Tel: 518-686-0972, Ext. 202

Cynthia@aiArtists.com

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