Getting Started
The best way to get started is to begin by asking a question.
What is the most effective approach to begin learning to improvise?
What is the most effective approach to begin learning to improvise?
posted by Keith Hill at 6/08/2005 05:19:00 PM
4 Comments:
The "inertia" improvisation is also a great tool, but it too must be combined with the control of the creative process least it destroys the discipline of what is in charge - your hands and their habits or you.
Some other ideas on getting started, which is the most difficult part of improvising, especially for traditionally trained musicians who are invariably fearful of 'making a mistake' in their initial attempts to improvise: 1) There are many levels of rhythm (or better said, note values). Improvisation is not just a string of bebop 16th. A single whole note can be an improvisation. 2) Choose the level at which you are comfortable to begin. Stay close to 'home' at first - home being the place where you feel safe and comfortable. This might be a whole note in C major. Then take small steps away from home, returning whenever you like. This might be trying other tones, or using quicker note values. 3) Listen. Play that first long, long tone. Listen, and you will know what and when the next note should be. If you're playing with someone, same thing: listen well, and inspiration will come easily. If you start fumbling, or feeling tense or lost, go home (or take a few steps back toward 'home'). Then go out exploring once again.
After 18 years of studying literature I am just now starting to improvise, and I must admit I am finding it challenging while realizing the importance. Letting go of the security blanket of printed music is scary. Any information posted on this site will be most appreciated.
To Linz Organist...check out our musicalratio.com website and read three articles aimed at those who are just beginning to improvise. Hope you find what you need.
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