What do I mean by “improvisation?”

Improvisation is the art of MSU: “Making Stuff Up” in the moment. You tap into your own innate musicality to create beauty and groove in the moment and of the moment. Free and spontaneous, joyful and heartfelt, it can feel like flying! Here’s what my friend, Rosi Amador of the Boston-based group Sol y Canto has to say about it:

“For me (improvisation) has become a spiritual practice that allows me to access my authenticity and I had no idea it would have this effect on me whenI began this journey a decade ago. When I participate in what is called “circle singing” with other singers I feel so joyful it’s hard to describe. I’m completely not in my head and simply following my heart and staying in the moment. For me it’s pure play and connection with others. It’s about listening deeply as well as taking risks and stepping forward.”

We all carry music inside of us, we just have to let it out! And doing so in the company of a few other singers or instrumentalists is one of the most fun, most fulfilling and most joyful experiences one can have! Not only do you make beautiful music together, you make beautiful community as well.

Several years ago, I thought I had a pretty solid musical house built: I could sing jazz, pop, rock, classical, solo, with a band, with an orchestra, or a cappella. But improvising scared me, so I signed up for a week-long workshop with the world-renowned Bobby McFerrin, thinking I might “learn how to scat a little better.” It was as if the doors of my house got blown off to reveal an entire new wing I hadn’t known existed. Music, spirit, community: this had it all. I was hooked! I want to share that joy of discovery with YOU.

Solo or group improvisation…I cannot recommend it highly enough!

Want to know what it looks like in action? Below is a video of Bobby McFerrin and Gimme5, which includes two of my mentors/teachers: Rhiannon and Judi Vinar. Makin’ Stuff Up!