A conceptual method of learning jazz improvisation through studying the music of J. S. Bach

Abstract

Johann Sebastian Bach's music includes exceptional source material for learning jazz improvisation. This research document has three sections. Chapter 1 is a concise review of respected jazz studies literature. Chapters 2 through 4 introduce a jazz improvisation methodology with Bach's music as its source material. The appendix presents materials on topics such as using improvisation for learning music, understanding improvisation, and organ improvisation. The target audience members for this research document are improvisation teachers who already possess an applicable knowledge of improvisation, pop/jazz chord symbols, and traditional music theory. The figures contained in Chapters 2 through 4 guide educators through ways to incorporate each musical exercise into instruction. Other primary audience members for this improvisation methodology are classically-trained musicians who share a familiarity with J.S. Bach's music yet believe they have no improvisational creativity of their own.