Improvisation 2 is the second of a two-course sequence for students wishing to do more specialized work in idiomatic improvisation in jazz and other musical traditions. This course builds upon Improvisation 2317 and covers the modes/arpeggios of the jazz melodic minor scale, the diminished whole step and diminished half step scales. Other topics covered include critical listening, interaction within an improvising ensemble, managing the inherent tensions within these scales/modes, especially in relation to altered dominant applications. Repertoire is drawn from jazz, jazz-fusion and Latin standards.
Prerequisites
MUSC 2317, or permission of instructor.
Course type
This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.
- Performance of idiomatic jazz musical language; forms, harmony, melody, rhythm, phrasing, motivic improvisation.
- Diminished scale and melodic minor mode applications
- Historical perspectives
- Development of a personal improvisation language
- Learning forms and songs
- Application of jazz improvisation concepts to a variety of styles/genres
- Polyrhthms
- Interactive improvising
1. Practical and/or written examinations that demonstrate ability at or above the final exam and learning outcomes of this course.
2. A successful interview with the Music Department Leader and one other regularized music faculty member
For more information about Music courses, please email [email protected].
Course schedules
Select your program to see the available course schedules.
| CRN# | Duration | Delivery | Location | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 41447 |
January 5, 2026 to April 24, 2026 |
Lecture | VCC Broadway Building A | See full schedule |
Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.
How to take this course
This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].
† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.