Improv Nights 2025: A Tribute to Derek Bailey

Join Roulette for the third annual Improv Nights, a three-night run bringing together master improvisers to perform in multiple configurations and combinations.

This series was originally initiated by John Zorn, to whom Derek Bailey was a dear friend and mentor. Bailey’s passion for pure improvisation inspired generations of musicians from a wide variety of backgrounds. For these three nights we return to the Improv Night tradition that began as benefits for The Stone, and that have been, in many ways, inspired by Derek Bailey’s legendary Company Weeks.

Each evening will present a rotating kaleidoscope of musicians, who will then divide into smaller improvisational units—each concert promising a unique and exciting experience.

Please join us in this heartfelt tribute to the art of improvisation, to the ever-thriving, ever-expanding Downtown Scene, and to the spirit of Derek Bailey and Company.