Conversing in Music

Headwaters Music & Arts invites the community to experience an unforgettable weekend of creativity, collaboration, and live performance during Conversing in Music, featuring acclaimed improvising musicians Steve Hirsh and Nathan Hanson on September 25–26, 2026.
Unlike a traditional concert, Conversing in Music explores spontaneous musical creation. Every performance is shaped in real time through listening, collaboration, and the unique energy of the audience, making each performance a one-of-a-kind experience.
Steve Hirsh is a recognized drummer, composer, and improviser whose work spans decades of collaborations with leading figures in creative and free jazz. Saxophonist and composer Nathan Hanson has performed throughout the United States and is known for creating immersive musical experiences that respond to the people and spaces around him.
The weekend begins with a Community Concert on Friday, September 25 at 7:00 PM, where the audience is invited to experience music created entirely in the moment. Tickets are $25 for adults and $7 for students.
On Saturday, September 26 at 11:00 AM, Hirsh and Hanson will lead an interactive Jazz Improvisation Masterclass for musicians, educators, students, and anyone interested in expanding their creative approach to music. Participants will explore improvisation, listening, collaboration, and musical communication in a welcoming environment. Registration is $20 for adults and $10 for students.
Together, Hirsh and Hanson bring decades of experience performing, composing, and collaborating with artists across the country, creating performances that are as engaging as they are unpredictable.
Whether attending the concert, participating in the masterclass, or both, community members will have a rare opportunity to experience nationally acclaimed artists bringing music to life in a way that cannot be rehearsed or recreated.
This activity is made possible, in part, by a grant from the Bemidji Area Arts Endowment, a component fund of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation.

REGISTRATION & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Tickets for the Community Concert and registration for the Jazz Improvisation Masterclass are available now.

Community members are encouraged to reserve their Masterclass spot & Concert Tickets in advance at headwatersmusicandarts.org/events, or by calling (218) 444-5606.

ABOUT HEADWATERS MUSIC & ARTS:

Headwaters Music & Arts’ mission is to provide opportunities for creativity through instruction and to inspire community through music and the arts.

We are committed to offering arts access for everyone, making scholarships available to youth and adults. As a non-profit with a 501(c)3 charitable organization designation, we receive support not only from program tuition but from arts organization grants, state agencies, and donations from community members.

Guided by our organizational values of Inclusion & Diversity; Empowerment; Creativity & Innovation; and Collaboration & Community Building, we are passionate about providing a gathering space and instructional opportunities for learning and growth through the arts.

With our individual music lessons, group classes, and workshops in a variety of disciplines, experienced artists and novices alike will find exciting opportunities at Headwaters Music & Arts. We invite you to explore our website and come join us to develop your own creative passion!