CircleSong and the Art of Improvisation

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to investigate the varied applications and teaching methodologies of vocal improvisation in the discipline of performance by attending an advanced improvisation, intensive education workshop. Method The primary method of vocal improvisation to analyze was a unique style of teaching utilized by only a few vocalists in the world, Bobby McFerrin and Rhiannon being two examples. The workshop was unique in its design structured around a ten-day immersion of intensive practice using the art of CircleSong as the methodology for learning the skill and spirit of vocal improvisation. We stepped out of our everyday lives, and into a magical world – off the grid on the Big Island of Hawaii in a private retreat center, where we had the focus and isolation to explore the improvised sound world. Using melodic, rhythmic, harmonic, and storytelling exercises we discovered and deepened the creative capacity of our individual and collective voices. Results This experience advanced and improved the quality of my teaching methodology, as well as my performance skills. I intend to share this information with the community through private instruction and as a facilitator at Summer Jazz Camps and other higher education learning environments and Master Classes