Breaking Free: The Transformative Power of Music Improvisation

October 16–17, 2026 Faye Spanos Concert Hall, Stockton University of the Pacific's Conservatory of Music presents a 2-day conference "Breaking free: the power of music improvisation." This joint music education and music therapy event features acclaimed jazz violinist and educator Christian Howes. The conference kicks off on Friday, October 16, with a screening of "Redemption Time"—a documentary revealing the trauma of incarceration and the redemptive force of art. The screening is followed by a Q&A with Christian Howes. This event is free and open to the public. During the conference sessions on Saturday, Christian Howes, along with a panel of musicians and music therapists, explores the transformative potential of music improvisation. The day culminates with a concert featuring Howes and Pacific’s jazz faculty and students. Registration is free and recommended. The conference is free and open to the public. Find a detailed schedule of conference sessions at pacific.edu/event/breaking