Nick Sorensen is a musician and writer with a particular interest in the theory and practice of improvisation. He is a skilled workshop facilitator and his consutancy company The Improvising School supports musicians, teachers, leaders and writers to develop their creativity.
Nick is a creative and eclectic musician who is equally at home playing jazz, free improvisation, contemporary compositions, blues and folk music. “A fine lyrical saxophonist” (Jazzwise Magazine), he plays tenor, alto and soprano saxophones. Nick has played alongside some of the best contemporary UK jazz musicians including Pee Wee Ellis, Dave Newton, Tony Roberts, Iain Ballamy, and Karen Street. His partnership with virtuoso pianist John Law dates back to 2006 and they have developed a unique and enthralling rapport.
His book The Improvising Teacher, published by Routledge, offers a radical reconceptualization of improvisation as a fundamental element of teacher expertise. Drawing on theories of improvisation and expertise alongside empirical research, the book illustrates the nature of advanced practice in a global classroom through case studies of expert teachers in England. It makes a theoretical and conceptual case for the improvising teacher as a prototype of expert practice.
Nick is Emeritus Professor of Education at Bath Spa University and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
Nick Sorensen 