Public Space for: Improvising A Simple ABA Piece With Jeremy Siskind

Anyone can improvise! When classical pianists hear the word "Improvisation," they often think of learning fancy jazz scales or studying the rule of the octave. But improvisation doesn't have to be intimidating! In this two-week intensive, pianist Jeremy Siskind will demonstrate how to improvise a twenty-four measure ABA tune without being a jazz or historical improv genius. Topics covered will include standard chord progressions, left-hand patterns, use of arpeggios, adding color using non-chord tones, and exercises for two-handed coordination. 

Pianists of all levels are welcome. 

More Detailed instructions coming soon!

• Sign-Up : April 12 - April 15
• Course Period: April 17 - May 1
• Class Size: max. 4 Groups á 10 Participants
• Optional check-In via Zoom: April 26th 1:30pm - 2:30pm PT

Assignment 1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiDUR1esb70

For the assignment:

1) Learn the given chord progression in Eb major and C minor | I | IV | V7/V | V | V/IV | IV | V | I |

2) Create 4-6 contrasting left hand accompaniment patterns and practice them in both Eb major and C minor

3) Practice improvising limiting yourself to just the arpeggios (notes of the chords) 

4) Ask "what if" questions to spark different improvisation ideas

Assignment 2

https://youtu.be/ZZt9iD4GOHs

For the assignment:

1) Beautify your melody through lower chromatic neighbors, scale passages, and ornaments.

2) Think orchestrally - use more of the piano to create orchestral framing, including unisons, chorales, left-hand melodies, and upper-register passages.

3) Put it all together! Practice creating contrasting ABA improvisations, making sure to add transitions between the sections.