Fundamentals of Improvisation for Percussion
Survey and application of improvisation in both solo and ensemble contexts. Categories of studies include traditional/standard forms, (AABA, blues etc.), soloing over vamps, ostinato, melodic, thematic and textural approaches, use of various rhythmic techniques including polyrhythm, metric modulation, reduction etc. Emphasis is on increasing rhythmic skills, coordination and style/vernacular integration while developing a singular, personal voice. Projects will be divided into two general categories: abstract (imagery pieces, imagination and exploration, free forms) and non-abstract (specific goals and structures, concrete forms, multiple meters, rhythm, and stylistic context).