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Last active September 29, 2015 10:37
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short discussion of the problems and solutions of group ensemble improvised music

Success with Improvised Ensemble Music

a guideline to the possible stumbling blocks found with group ensemble improvisation

problems

  1. coordination of intention
  2. non-verbal communication only
  3. relying on connections
  4. patience
  5. framing leading to multiple perceptions

solutions

  1. discussion of purpose and expected results
  2. games and activities in available languages
  3. definition of responsibilities
  4. lead and follow practice
  5. framing information communication

Definition of Terms

energy

the combined sonic result of the efforts of simultaneous music played by individuals as ensemble a feeling described as intensity, excitement, or described by color

coordination of intent

individuals making similar decision as to the energy of the music altering their parts to match and anticipate the same energy decisions of the other individuals often referred to as chemistry

non-verbal communication only

the condition of not having verbal communication available

relying on connections

the act of playing for the combined effect of multiple lines the necessity require by some lines on other lines existing to create the desired effect

patience

moving slowly and deliberately moving concurrently with other individuals

framing leading to multiple perceptions

the concept of begin and end within the smaller subsections of the music the ability of individuals to create separate frames leading to different interpretations of the combined music

Definition of Solutions

discussion of purpose and expected results

going through the real world examples and discussing the results achieved comparing actual verse expected results and the intentions defining purpose by asking why? allowing the purpose to be flexible and the to some degree happen naturally

games and activities in available languages

practice and use any available means of language by creating small easy games and activities attempt to communicate unusual ideas and off-message concepts create a good natured sense of competition and success between language participants in games

definition of responsibilities

all players are individual and not create equal definition of behaviors that are required and the moments of proper timing understand the responsibilities of the other players communicate what information we can learn from this understanding and the action at the moment

lead and follow practice

simulate and rehearse specific events with discipline to maintain a coordinated arrangement practice all conceivable situations including changing without verbal communication discuss when unintentional changes occur and methods for continued purpose simplify practice to the act of switching leader and follower in common situations

framing information communication

small functional bits of music used to communicate where in time you believe you are highlighting of different areas based on their importance to the overall music discuss and practice solutions for when multiple perceptions occur rehearse moving frames on purpose

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