The benefits of improvisation are well known: Students learn to listen and react to sound; they learn to take responsibility for the sounds they create as both a performer and a composer; they can learn how to think more like a composer, and can acquire a fresh and vital perspective on composed music. Improvisation can enliven the study of music theory and can form a foundation for the study of pieces from the literature. Some students tire from routine activities in the private lesson, and would welcome a supplement to the traditional reading and practicing. Creative learning activities in the form of improvisation stimulate the student's appreciation, and provide healthy outlets for their creativity and self-expression. Improvisation is part of NASM's accreditation guidelines and should be incorporated in all aspects of the music curriculum.

 
No experience in improvisation is necessary to attend this seminar

Dr. Purrone covers the following topics in two activity sessions:

• The Value of improvisation--enhanced musical cognition and creativity
• Improvisation games for the beginning student
• First explorations of melodic improvisation
• Five finger patterns
• Using written rhythms and improvised notes for melodic invention
• Using written notes and improvised rhythm for melodic invention
• Simple accompaniments for improvised melodies
• Concepts to help create pleasing melodies
• First lessons in form
• Expanding melodic invention to 7-note scales
• Diatonic Chords and their melodies
• Harmonic progressions
• Accompaniment Patterns
• Styles: Marches, Waltzes, Nocturnes, Ground Bass

Other Improvisation Seminars

• First explorations of the Jazz Style: Blues--progressions and scales
• Second exploration of the Jazz Style:  Typical rhythms and scales
• Third exploration of the Jazz Style: Harmony--two note, three note, and two hand voicings
• Reading Jazz compositions from a Fake Book
• Eight Songs to learn Jazz Improvisation techniques
• Appropriate textures for the Jazz Style