Heartcore Academy is proud to announce the launch of an exclusive new masterclass series in collaboration with Berlin’s iconic Zig Zag Jazzclub. This exciting partnership brings together two creative powerhouses to present intimate, in-depth sessions with some of the most innovative and expressive voices in jazz.
Filmed live at one of Berlin’s most vibrant jazz venues, each masterclass offers rare, behind-the-scenes access to the creative processes of world-class musicians. From improvisation techniques and tone-building to personal practice routines and storytelling, the series is designed to inspire, educate, and connect musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike.
The first installment of the series features Grammy Award-winning saxophonist and two-time DownBeat Critics Poll winner Wayne Escoffery, with his masterclass titled: “Wayne Escoffery - From Sound to Statement.”
In this session, Escoffery explores how sound becomes personal artistic expression. Through tone-building exercises, improvisational concepts, and musical storytelling, he offers an in-depth look into his process of shaping a distinct voice on the instrument.
Originally from London and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, Escoffery’s career spans decades of performance, composition, and education. A former student of jazz legend Jackie McLean and graduate of the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute, Escoffery has performed and recorded with jazz icons including Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, Abdullah Ibrahim, and Tom Harrell. He is a longtime musical director of the Mingus Big Band, founder of the Black Art Jazz Collective, and leader of his own acclaimed quartet. His recent album Alone has been hailed as one of the standout jazz releases of 2024, earning five stars from The London Times and widespread critical acclaim.
In addition to his international touring and recording career, Escoffery is a dedicated educator. He serves as Director of Jazz Ensembles and Jazz Saxophone instructor at Yale University and regularly presents masterclasses and lectures around the world.
The Heartcore Academy x Zig Zag Jazzclub Masterclass Series invites students, professional musicians, and jazz lovers to experience these unique educational events, where the stage becomes the classroom and music comes to life in new and inspiring ways. This collaboration offers audiences a rare chance to go beyond the performance and step directly into the creative world of the musicians themselves.