Meet Michael Hudson-Casanova

Michael is a saxophonist and improvisation coach with over 15 years of experience performing and teaching music in a great variety of settings. He has performed at jazz clubs around the U.S. such as Cliff Bell's (Detroit), Chris' Jazz Cafe (Philadelphia) and the Green Mill (Chicago).

Michael currently has four albums of original music out under his name, and has been awarded grants to record and produce his music by Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and the Illinois Arts Council Association. He holds degrees in music education and jazz studies from Western Michigan University and Temple University, and has studied with jazz greats such as Dick Oatts, David Binny, and Edward Simon.

Michael created the Improvisation Excellence Program in 2024 to help saxophonists gain confidence in improvised music. The program emphasizes going toward the music the student is most passionate about, and approaching the saxophone with creativity.