Vocal Improvisation in R&B and Other Contemporary Idioms
This class is level three (out of four levels) of the Voice Department's recommended structured learning path for improvisation. Rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic considerations of vocal improvisation will be reviewed, including syllable articulation, pentatonic patterns, phrasing, and motivic development as applied to R&B and pop music. Midterm and final exams will require students to demonstrate R&B phrasing in improvisation and recognize recorded music examples of improvisation in the R&B/pop idioms.