What is the course about?

This course is an introduction to improvising (‘soloing’) in popular music styles including folk, blues, rock and jazz. We’ll look at the characteristics of each style and the important ways they relate to each other.

This is a live online course. You will need:
– Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
– A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don’t have a computer.
– Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?
We will explore the most important approaches to melodic improvisation, such as scale choices, phrasing, chord sequences, ‘blue’ notes and altered extensions. We will look at stylistic features that are typical in each genre, giving your improvisation an authentic and authoritative sound.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to…

Produce musical solos using aural skills, an increased understanding of scale types, and an appreciation of stylistic elements that go to make a ‘sound’.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is aimed at students who read music, since course materials include written music notation. A basic understanding of chord types, and the ability to play major scales in several keys on your instrument, will be useful.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
There will be demonstrations in the session to consolidate areas of study; we will analyse classic solos for their characteristic features; you will be asked to upload recordings of your playing to backing tracks provided and you will be provided with constructive feedback on your recordings.
You will get the most from the course if you are able to practise between sessions; materials will be supplied to support your independent practice.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

All course materials and resources will be available in the google classroom.
When I’ve finished, what course can I do next?

This is a supplement to instrumental and jazz musicianship courses. (Link)