"Imitate. Assimilate. Innovate."
                                              - Clark Terry

There are many excellent resources and programs for learning about playing jazz. Here are some great teachers and players, listed in no particular order:

I.        Hal Crook – https://halcrook.com/ 

Hal Crook was one of my theory teachers many years ago when he was still teaching at Berklee. He had a big effect on my understanding of harmony and its application to my playing. 

Here are two of his theory books. 

https://en.schott-music.com/shop/how-to-improvise-no307906.html 

https://en.schott-music.com/shop/ready-aim-improvise-no405299.html 

II.      Tim Miller - https://www.timmillermusiclessons.com/ 

I took many of Tim Miller’s online classes. He really helped my technique, particularly with his 2-1-2 concept.  But his comprehensive approach covers everything from the basics to very advanced concepts. 

III.     Jerry Bergonzi - https://www.jerrybergonzi.net/ 

I use Jerry Bergonzi’s book “Melodic Rhythms” all the time. The book helps me develop thematic ideas in my improvisation: 

https://en.schott-music.com/shop/melodic-rhythms-no307916.html

IV.  Gary Burton - Gary Burton is a legendary vibraphonist and educator.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Burton  Here's an example of one of his master classes on improvisation: