MUS 168 Improvisation in Music
This course will involve group discussion and reflection on the nature of improvisation and how parameters, structure, modes, and musical vocabulary in various styles define its practice. The other half of course activity will involve firsthand experience improvising in an ensemble setting. Aspects of improvisation that will be explored include: deep listening, rhythmic groove, introduction to modal improvisation systems, soloing over a form, ornamentation and embellishment, cadenza, aleatoric music in experimental scores, and free improvisation. The course will present examples of improvisation in diverse styles and genres, including but not limited to: jazz, rock, freestyle rap, Indian raga, Arabic maqām, Western art music, and free improvisation. Course assignments will include class participation, weekly journaling, and a final project that will require students to present, or guide the class in, a piece incorporating improvisation.
Distribution
MUS