Free improvisation
Free improvisation or free music is improvised music without any rules, and not in any particular style. Performers may choose to play in a certain style or key, or at a certain tempo, but it is not required. There is generally more emphasis placed on mood and texture than on melody, harmony or predictable rhythm.
Free music is a relatively little known, and somewhat loosely-defined genre, and none of its exponents can be said to be "famous" amongst the general public. However, in experimental circles, a number of free musicians are well known, including the guitarist Derek Bailey, and the saxophonists Peter Brötzmann and Evan Parker.
Free music performers come from a variety of backgrounds, and there is often considerable influence on and from other musical genres. For example, much of self-taught Peter Brötzmann's output is also widely considered free jazz, and Tristan Honsinger studied at the prestigious Peabody Conservatory of Music. Elements of noise rock, IDM, minimalism and electroacoustic music are not uncommon in free improvisation.
Many free music performers also record and perform other styles of music: Anthony Braxton has written opera, and John Zorn has written acclaimed orchestral pieces.
Free music performers often emphasise extended technique.
List of free improvising musicians and groups
In alphabetical order:
- See also: free jazz, Musics magazine, Incus Records, Improvised Music from Japan, List of experimental musicians
External links
Referenced By
Avant-garde music | Avant garde music | Experimental music | List of genres of music (A-M)
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