Seminar in Improvisation

Catalog description

This is a seminar with a strong creative component that explores the art of improvisation. It caters to musicians (incl. singers) and composers across genres - whether jazz, rock, classical, hip hop, folk, electronic music, etc. We will analyze the properties of improvisation while focusing on soloing, group improvisation, groove and time-feel, ideation, improvisation in composition, production, and on the bandstand. We will transcribe, deal with questions such as “how to play without sheet music,” and address aesthetic issues, diverse lineages and context. We will analyze other artists’ improvisations, learn how to improvise ourselves, and obtain the tools necessary to develop our craft independently. You will need your instrument, voice, and - most importantly - your ear. Music and instrumental proficiency is required. A questionnaire will serve as a prescreening. Access to the seminar will be given via override approval.