To help you have a great spontaneous musical conversation, here are some resources!

Handout

Rules for Success
RULE #1 - Keep going! embrace failure as proof that you are playing the game!

#Group improv on scales
go up or up and down in small steps

RULE #2 – Create options: Stay or Change - repeat things until you are ready to change.

#Stay or Change? 

1. Set a pulse - sing or play a C major scale - change direction at any time. Stay within 1 octave.
2. Same thing, add a pause anytime.

RULE #3 – Listen to what's happening inside you and in the music. Conscious Listening 4-step method: Describe, Focus, Respond, Breathe.

#Listen to yourself first. Pause. Then sing or play it.

“The BRV Method”.  Block- Reuse - Vary

TOOL #1 - block: preassemble notes or chords that are ready to use as a module. Ex. triad

Then you can use that block around. 

#draw 4 basic musical shapes "OILS"

TOOL #2 - reuse your material throughout so it feels more cohesive.

#repeat the block or move up and down in a "sequence" 

TOOL #3 – create variations on 1 element. 

Core Musical Elements
Rhythm
Melody

Scale
Interval
Harmony

All these ideas work together to create a spontaneous music conversation.
©Copyright 2026 Hsing-ay Hsu

Emotions

https://medicine.yale.edu/childstudy/services/community-and-schools-programs/center-for-emotional-intelligence/

World Music

Visit the Conscious Listening Home Page for modes of listening.