If you don’t live it, it won’t come out of your horn. ~ Charlie Parker
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about 4 years ago
Kevin,
Good slideshow – I really see the 4 pieces you chose to share. I particularly like that you focused on musician.
I have been exploring the idea of improvisation lately: relating jazz improv to improvisation in the classroom, in organizations, in life in general. Do you have any thoughts on that?
cheers,
Tracy
ps – LOVE the Charlie Parker quote!
about 4 years ago
Hi Tracy
I think improv is the free flow of ideas, and that it is based on the concepts of a journey (to melody, to understanding, etc) and so I can definitely see some connections between a solo that moves within the framework of a song’s structure and how teachers might “riff” on a topic and bring their students to something new via the old.
I guess many would argue that the standards-based curriculum is bringing this kind of idea — allowing a conversation in the classroom to shift a lesson to something unplanned and yet still rich with learning — to an end for many teachers and students.
Interesting connections, though.
Kevin
about 4 years ago
Hmmm – I’m not sure about that, that standards-based curriculum marks the end of improvisation. Any inspiring improv I have heard or seen works within a structure. The structure keeps it together, keeps a focus. Improvisation in the classroom, for me, has to do with how I dance within and around the structure, allowing my students’ needs to emerge as they will and answering them within the framework of the course objectives (or standards).
As I said..something I am still thinking about.
Have a fabulous holiday!
Tracy