Improvisation has been throughout the ages an essential aspect of music-making. In a bid to reconnect with this longstanding tradition, Patrick Ayrton offers a hands-on practical course based on methods of Baroque keyboard extemporization. The workshop focuses on the recognition and identification of schemata, forms and stylistic figures typical of the 17th and 18th centuries. These are then put into practice through imitation and assimilation processes. Similarly to the study of jazz, students experiment with building-blocks allowing the construction of creative strategies. Historic methods and sources are discussed. Interactivity plays a main role, as participants are encouraged to mutually suggest ways of enhancing each others inventions and gestures. Areas covered are the French prélude non mesuré, the Italian toccata, dance forms, fugue, air and variations as well as the examination of partimenti of the Napolitan school.
