If you’ve ever listened to high-level jazz musicians perform standard tunes and noticed that they never simply begin at the top of a Real Book chart and finish at the bottom of the page, you’ve probably wondered where all the extra material comes from – the intros, outros, codas, endings, varied feels, time signatures, voicings and improvised arrangements that bring a performance to life.
This practical, musician-focused workshop addresses exactly those questions, exploring the skills that most often hold developing players back, including learning and memorising tunes effectively, strengthening time and rhythmic feel, quickly devising musical intros and endings and developing engaging improvisational ideas that translate directly into performance.
This rare opportunity to work closely with James Sherlock is especially significant as he seldom presents touring workshops, offering students direct insight from one of Australia’s most respected jazz guitarists.
Internationally recognised as the winner of the Ike Isaacs International Jazz Guitar Award, James has built a distinguished performing and recording career spanning more than three decades, released multiple albums as a bandleader, toured extensively, and is widely regarded for his expressive musicianship, deep knowledge of the jazz tradition, and thoughtful approach to improvisation and education.

WORKSHOP DETAILS:
Friday 10th April 2026
1pm to 3pm
Concession: $20 (+GST & BF)
General: $30 (+GST & BF)
All ages and musicians welcome!
Head to our Humanitix to purchase limited seated tickets
How do I purchase a ticket?
Tickets are being sold through Humanitix. Purchase limited seated tickets here. Due to JMI Live being an intimate space, we have a maximum number of guests allowed in the venue. We highly recommend it is best to get in early before tickets sell out.
Location
JMI Live is located at 10 Exhibition Street, Bowen Hills.
Ticket Refund Policy
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and are unable to attend after having purchased a ticket, please contact the JMI office (07 3216 1110 or email play@jazz.qld.edu.au) as soon as possible during business hours (10AM-4PM) to let us know you won’t be able to attend. A full refund will be given if we are contacted prior to a performance. Refunds will not be processed if we are contacted after the gig.
