8 Simple Ways to Start Piano Improvisation TODAY

Fear of improvisation often holds pianists back from exploring their creative potential, and it can be difficult to know where to begin! While it sounds like amazing improvisers are always coming up with new material, much of their performances are based on "tried-and-true" musical elements (scales, chords, patterns, etc.). This is a skill that can be developed, but we need to at least BEGIN!

If you prefer video format with examples of each improvisation idea, you can check out my video HERE.

Here are eight approachable ways to start improvising, even if you've only learned piano through traditional methods:

1) Start with Just the Black Keys

The black keys offer a perfect starting point for improvisation because their arrangement on the keyboard makes it nearly impossible to create dissonant sounds (there are no half steps!).

This builds confidence, as everything you play will sound harmonious and intentional. Use this time to experiment with how the hands interact with each other and interesting rhythms.

2) Scale Exploration

Take a familiar scale and experiment with different patterns to get to the top note:

- Try "up two notes, down one". For example, if you were to play a C Major scale, the pattern would be CDE, DEF, EFG, FGA, etc. until you reach the octave C above.

- Outline chords while maintaining the scale foundation. Again, using a C Major scale, try CEG, DFA, EGB, FAC, etc.

- Explore beyond C major into other scales you know

3) Harmonization Adventures

Begin adding LH harmony to your RH scales (or vice versa) without worrying about strict rules:

- Match each scale note with its corresponding chord (C note in RH-C chord in LH; D note in RH-D chord in LH)

- Experiment with different chord combinations. Be free! Don't worry about any music theory rules. Explore what sounds you like and begin to notice what chord combinations sound good. 

- Try adding 1-4 notes beneath your melody. You can harmonize with just 1 note in the LH or up to 4!

4) Variation on Simple Pieces

- Choose a piece you can sight-read easily

- Play as written, but change 2-3 notes in the melody every four bars or so

- Make spontaneous decisions rather than writing out changes changes

- Gradually increase the number of alterations

5) Theme and Variations

Start with simple melodies like "Aura Lee".

Then, create your own variations by:

- Changing the mood (sad, upbeat, mysterious)

- Maintaining the basic chord structure, but adding a LH chord broken-chord pattern

- Adding your own stylistic elements

6) Pedal Tone Foundation

- Start with a single left-hand pedal tone. You will repeat this throughout your improvisation.

- Add a fifth above your bass note in the LH for fuller sound

- Create right-hand melodies above the foundation

- It can help to establish a time signatures, tempo, and mood before beginning

7) Chord Progression Exploration (without melody)

- Begin with a two-chord progression. Try A minor to F Major.

- Experiment with blocked and broken patterns using just these 2 chords over and over

- Progress from simple to complex variations. For some chord pattern inspo, check out this video HERE.

8) Reharmonization Techniques

- Take familiar melodies like Ode to Joy

- Add new harmonies to the melody. It's helpful to specify when you'll play new chords. You could try playing a new chord on the downbeat of every 2 measures or on the downbeat of every measure.

- Experiment with different chord patterns

Final (Important!) Tip

When improvising, practice continuing through "mistakes". Try not to stop! Once you've finished a short improv section, you can then take the time to think about what you liked, what you didn't, and experiment with how you could have done it differently. It's very important to be able to push through any "oopsie" moments.

Successful improvisation combines technical skill, a good ear, theoretical knowledge, and regular practice and experimentation. We work on all of these elements in our lessons inside Piano Roadmap. Aside from developing these important musical skills, the most important thing is to just do it and work on getting over the fear or embarrassment (or pick whatever word you might associate with improvising!) and begin. Oh, and have fun!