Technique of Improvising in Music Therapy -3
by - Dr. T V Sairam
Some of the Variations in improvisation methods which are commonly used are explained in the table:
| Improvisation Methods | Notes |
| Instrumental referential | It refers to creating tunes, melodies or rhythms with the help of selected musical instrument(s) in accordance with a reference such as an event, feeling, image or relationship in the client’s life. The musical piece, so created, is soaked with such feelings that could induce catharsis. |
| Instrumental non-referential | It refers to creating music with the help of selected musical instrument(s) without any reference (For example, a person is handed over a drum or xylophone and is asked to pay it freely without any restriction whatsoever.) |
| Song improvisation | It refers to creating lyrics for a melody or singing a song along with the singer with a different/deviated melody. The method is known to give more creative opportunities. |
| Vocal non-referential | It refers to creating a vocal piece mindlessly without words or images or meanings. |
| Body improvisation | It refers to creating various kinds of body sounds with different rhythms, decibels and frequencies. |
| Mixed media | It refers to creating a musical piece with any possible combination of instrumental, vocal, or body sounds |
| Conducted improvisation | It refers to creating a musical stanza or a musical piece by giving directive cues to one or more improvisers |
Bruscia (1998) has identified the following clinical goals, which can be achieved through the various improvisation methods:
- To establish a nonverbal channel of communication, and a bridge to verbal communication
- To provide a fulfilling means of self-expression and identity formation
- To explore various aspects of self in relation to others
- To develop the capacity for interpersonal intimacy
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To develop group skills
- To develop creativity, expressive freedom, and playfulness with various degrees of structure
- To stimulate and develop the senses
- To play, on the spot, with a decisiveness that invites clarity of intention.
- To develop perceptual and cognitive skills.
Dr T V Sairam, A serving bureaucrat and a writer, is from F/48B, Hari Nagar New Delhi 110064. For any doubts you can contact him at - tvsairam @ gmail. com