Back to alphabetical overview – click here
Improvisation – Definition
Improvisation is the creation and performance of music in real time rather than from fully written notation. It is commonly based on an underlying harmonic progression, rhythmic pattern, or musical form.
What is Improvisation?
Although improvisation is often described as spontaneous, it typically relies on musical knowledge and experience. Improvising musicians draw upon scales, chords, rhythmic ideas, melodic patterns, and stylistic vocabulary to create music that fits the harmonic and rhythmic context.
Improvisation is an important element of many musical styles, including jazz, blues, rock, gospel, and contemporary popular music. It may range from subtle melodic variation to extended solo performances.
How is Improvisation used in piano playing?
Pianists often begin improvising by creating simple melodic variations over familiar chord progressions. As their musical vocabulary develops, they incorporate additional scales, chord tones, passing notes, and rhythmic variation.
Improvisation is used in solo performance, accompaniment, composition, and live performance, allowing pianists to respond creatively to the music and the musicians around them.