music

improvisation activities

The aim of these improvisation activities is to experience musical improvisation by playing along to the backing track in a group using the selection of instruments suggested. Create your own rhythms, melodies, and have a go at singing along. There is no right or wrong way to interact with this piece. Have fun, listen to the music, listen to each other, and play!

Forest Rain

Improvisation Activity #1 - 'Forest Rain'

(Key - C Major)

Suggested Instrument selection

• Xylophones / glockenspiels - only notes C D E F G A B

• Tongue Drums - only in key of 'C', 'C Major' or 'A minor’

• Chime Bars - only notes C D E F G A B

• Piano - only white notes

Sea Waves

Improvisation Activity #2 - ‘Sea Waves'

(Key - C Major)

Suggested Instrument selection

• Ocean Drums

• Shakers

• Tongue Drums - only in key of 'C', 'C Major' or 'A minor’

• Chime Bars - only notes C D E F G A B

Birdsong Meditation

Improvisation Activity #3 - ‘Birdsong Meditation'

(Key - drone on C)

Suggested Instrument selection

• Chime bars - only notes C D E F G A B

• Xylophones - only notes C D E F G A B

• Glockenspiels - only notes C D E F G A B

• Bells - only notes C D E F G A B

• 1x deep-sounding drum

• Tongue drums - only notes C D E F G A B

• Piano - only white notes (C D E F G A B)

  As this tune based on a drone idea, it is really well suited to singing / humming along to. So give it a go and improvise a sing along!