Improvisation at the Piano: A Systematic Approach for the Classically Trained Pianist Paperback – March 1, 2007

A wonderful book-exactly what I was looking for: aimed at musicians with a pure classical bent. I will warn you that a THOROUGH knowledge of music theory is essential for making any sense of this book: don't bother getting this unless you know music theory like the back of your hand: this book could otherwise be called "Advanced music theory for keyboard."If you memorize the harmonic devices and improvisation patterns in this book, you can review a peice AWAY from the piano to identify patterns such as the true key signature (major or minor/melodic minor), as well as scale and modal shifts (for instance, you'll find aeolian and mixolydian modes in many many peices). A harmonic analysis of a classical piece will not only give you insight into how the greats composed, but will greatly ease the memorization process. You'll have a lot of fun with the info in this book. I feel I have quite an edge on most musicians now. The info in this book is also entirely applicably to ANY instrument.I hope this review was helpful to my musical brothers and sisters. :)

I am having a great time with this book. I am a conservatory trained pianist, always good with sight-reading, quick grasp of notes. Memorizing was more of an effort, and as I age, I don't enjoy reading music as much as I once did. Following authors' suggestions, I am finding a groove, making my own sounds. I want to be free of the written page, and this is definitely helping. Not as technical, theoretically, as some other approaches. Not that I mind theory, but this is a real direct way to get at playing on my own.I also use solfege when playing piano, which very few people do. I find it gets me to focus on sounds, pitch placement, making musical decisions instead of letting my fingers wag at the keys. I'm having a blast, so what is there not to like?

This advanced book builds up a whole toolbox of techniques for dressing up a simple melody.As a classically-trained pianist who also plays by ear, I found this book very useful for methodically pushing my improvisational boundaries (way out of my comfort zone!), and putting solid theory behind what I did by feel. Since it is methodical, I plan to use it in my teaching. It systematizes the techniques of the great composers (who were also great improvisers), and makes their work more understandable (and subject to re-improvisation).On the downside, there is a very strong emphasis on finding the right scale to go with a melody, but there didn't seem to be enough practical examples of what to do with that scale other than 'be creative.' Be warned this book assumes a solid grasp of music theory.

This is by far the best book on improvisation. I own several books on improvisation and after getting this book I think I can throw away the rest. I love it because it is not the same jazz improvisation books that just repeat themselves all the time. if you like jazz on top of this book you may want to get Sid Jacobs book which also get 5 stars,that would be all you need.

This book is for general improve, not just jazz. Although the jazz section is excellent. It is concise and, thus, not overwhelming as many jazz books can become. The book provides a solid foundation for the serious musician.

POOR SYSTEM

Good book for improvisation of classical literature like Beethoven where scales are used to fill in, but I was looking for something more chordal for arrangements. I'm keeping the book because it does fill a niche, but was not what I expected.

I am love this product because it gives more insight in the field of music which is mine favorite hobby and I like improvising while playing piano.