
Experiments in the Art of Organisational Flourishing: Lessons from Jazz & Improvisation
Alex Steele (p) with Mark McKergow (s), Ben Faes (b) and Chryster Aerts (d)
Room: Predikherenkerk - Fry. 11:00-12:30 am
Content
In this 90-minute workshop at SOLWorld 2025, Alex will take participants on a journey through the hearts and minds of a group of 4 jazz musicians, including Alex playing the piano. The purpose of the workshop will be to give participants opportunities to feel what it is like to be inside a unique organisational system, inspired by jazz and improvisational mindsets. Participants will have opportunities to interact with, disrupt and control the jazz musicians, to gain unique insights into how it feels to be ‘in good company’, to sense others deeply, to develop trust, empathy, curiosity, resilience, flow and creativity. The session will include ongoing reflection on best practice in Solutions Focus coaching and organisational development practices.
Take aways
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An inspirational insight into what it feels like to be inside an organisation which cultivates improvisational behaviours in individuals and teams to create human and organisational flourishing.
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Being involved in the creation of some great live music!
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practical ideas which can be implemented immediately in teams, in organisations, and in life, changing the way we sense others, how we listen, how we judge and how we collaborate ‘in good company’.
Workshop Format
Live music!

Alex Steele is the Founder and Director of Improwise, an organisational development practice working in areas of leadership, organisational change, psychology, sustainability and innovation. Alex is an organisational development consultant, academic and coach by day, and a professional jazz pianist by night. He is a visiting professor, associate, partner and contributor with a range of international business schools and organisational development practices around the world.