Improvisation

3.0 credits

For graduate students with varied backgrounds in improvisation, including those with limited experience, this class will introduce practical techniques designed to: (1) develop improvisation skill in various styles; (2) include improvisation as an integral part of performance and instruction; and (3) define relationships between improvising, reading, and composing music. The class will explore a variety of performance genres and include principles for teaching improvisation and learning to improvise. Course content includes a logical harmonic and rhythmic sequence for skill development. Students will learn repertoire by ear, transcribe solos, and improvise solos, accompaniments, and counterpoint.