Improvisation Prompt: Improvise using only onE pitch

By definition, it may seem like constraints limit one’s ability to be creative. But sometimes constraints can free the mind from sorting through the possible variables and instead help it focus on just one avenue for success. Without having to determine which pitches to play, the performer is ushered into a world of rhythmic, dynamic, and articulative possibilities. Read below to learn how you can apply this prompt to your practice.

*Adult non-musicians: Write (or type) your first name on a piece of paper. Then take the next 1-3 minutes to fill the paper with your first name written in different sizes, fonts, colors, textures, etc. Take a look at your finished product- what does each size iteration say about you? Why did you write your first name in that specific position on the paper? What sensations did you experience as you created?

K–8: As a group or class (this could be a teacher play with a student in the lesson), play a scale together. After successfully play the scale, spend time on each pitch inviting players to explore one variable at a time. For example, in a C Major scale, first have players play the C using various dynamics. Then have students play the D and change the rhythm, etc. Students should play as a group in order to not feel self-conscious at first. After students feel comfortable with the task, invite students to play aloud as a solo. Discuss how students felt while improvising. Was it more freeing or stressful? Did they like only playing one pitch, or did they want to play other pitches?

Musicians: Choose a pitch. For a pre-determined amount of time (maybe just 20 seconds or so), improvise on that pitch. Play with space, texture, extended techniques, anything that comes to mind. Then improvise on another pitch for 20 seconds. Do the same things for a few minutes, recording your practice. Listen back. Did your experience playing match your experience listening back? What did you like best, and what would you have done differently?

*This could be good musicians too! Try this exercise before improvising on your instrument. Do the two practices inform each other? How are they different?