Free improvisation

December 28, 2023

Dear friends,

One of my causes is to grow a listening community for “free” improvisation, both locally in Nashville, and internationally, online. The term “free” might seem redundant, as isn’t all improvisation free? Well, when musicians use the term we are referring to a particular genre of improvisation without any preconceived melody or harmonic form, which traditional jazz employs. Sometimes we also call this music “open” improvisation. It’s a challenge for new listeners, because it isn’t built on a familiar melody you can follow, but is rather completely spontaneous. Think of it like a voyage into the western horizon towards the edge of the world. You just need experience with it to learn to enjoy it. You can get some experience by checking out the new “A Song of the Dolomites” video below. 

Bon voyage, 

JKG