I have really enjoyed the taster sessions, simply because they offer us as composers the opportunity to experience different styles and methods of composing. They really broaden your knowledge and open your mind to new ideas at the start of the week!

In the jazz taster sessions, we learned about improvising in various modes, alongside jazz chordal notation. This involved playing and singing as a group, each taking turns to improvise. It was easy to feel nervous about being put on the spot, but once everyone had done it once, everyone came into their own. I felt proper jazzy.