This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Northwoods Improvisers! The band formed in 1976 in Traverse City by Mike Johnston, Mike Gilmore and John Plough. Originally a total improvising electro-acoustic ensemble, they switched to an all acoustic instrumentation in 1980. Greatly influenced by the Spontaneous Music Ensemble and the Art Ensemble of Chicago, they combine free jazz, indigenous music from around the world, bop and improvisation.

The ever morphing group is currently comprised of bassist Mike Johnston, drummer Nick Ashton, Dominic Bierenga and Donovan Boxey on wind instruments, violinist Mike Khoury, Jack O’Brien on cello and bass, and Tony Holland on sax.

On the night of the concert, doors will open one hour before showtime. During that time, the galleries will be open for ticket buyers to view our current exhibitions, shop the museum store for waters and light snacks, or enjoy a cash bar. The galleries, store, and bar will not be available during intermissions or after the concert.