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Bulletin of Abai KazNPU. Series of Art education: art, theory, methods

The use of jazz in music education as a means of developing students' improvisational and creative abilities

Published June 2025
Akdeniz University, Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Music, Antalya, Türkiye
Abai kazakh national pedagogical university
Abai Kazakh national pedagogical university
Abstract

The article uses the use of jazz improvisations in the educational program of music as an effective
tool to stimulate creative thinking, expression and improvisation skills among students. The focus of
the study turned out to be musical educational institutions of the Republic of Kazakhstan, where there
was an opportunity to practice jazz for the development of a musical career, artistic opportunities and
the formation of creative individuality of students. Improvisation is interpreted as a way of musical
reflection at the moment of performance, based on global teaching methods.
The research method consisted of various approaches: 120 students aged 15-20 from four schools
participated in the research. The students were divided into two groups: one was taught the traditional
method, and the other was familiar with elements of jazz improvisation, including a jam session,
interactive Q&A solutions, and free creativity based on chord progressions. Information was collected
through preliminary and final tests, assessment of spontaneous speech, a scale of originality of
thinking and emotional expression, supplemented with information and indescribable impressions.
Data analysis confirmed a significant positive change in the indicators of the experimental
participants in all aspects. The students demonstrated a high level of creative thought, an
improvement in the need for attention to sounds, an increase in self-esteem and emotionality.
Assessments from teachers and students have shown that spontaneity has a positive effect on the
development of communication skills, personal expression and interest in learning.
The researchers conclude that jazz improvisation can be used not only in the context of music
education, but also as a tool for training courses in more adaptive, innovative and individualized
programs. The plans provide for the development of the method, taking into account local musical
characteristics, the integration of modern technological solutions and the implementation of longterm research projects.

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