I know that as musicians we are always encouraged to practice on our "instruments," which is necessary, but sometimes we forget what the real instrument is, and it's not the keyboard or the guitar... You may be asking, "What is it, then?" Your MIND is the real instrument! All the music you've played and will play comes from your mind. The physical instrument only amplifies what's going on inside.

What is Improvisation? Improvisation is simply creating in the moment—using what you have, without overthinking or planning ahead. Humans do it every day when we talk, solve problems, or react to life. The only reason it feels tough in music is because most people don’t pay attention to what improvisation actually requires. From a musician’s standpoint, there are three essential elements: 1. Knowledge / Vocabulary You can’t create from nothing. Musical improvisation needs a foundation to pull from. Your vocabulary includes: - Scales & chord tones - Melodies (from tunes you know) - Rhythms - Your musical mindset & training - Everything you’ve absorbed from listening and playing The wider your vocabulary, the more raw material you have to work with. 2. Intent Every solo is communication. If you don’t know what you’re trying to say, the listener won’t either. Ask yourself things like: - Do I want this to sound fiery and busy? - Do I want it to feel spacious and calm? - Do I want to respond to what the band is doing? Intent gives direction to your ideas. 3. Creativity Creativity is how you combine your knowledge with your intent in real time. It’s the decisions you make on the spot: - What note do I start on? - Do I repeat an idea? - Do I leave space? - This is where improvisation becomes personal. Take this thought process into your improvised solos and observe how it changes your approach. How do you personally approach improvisation? Let's keep the conversation going!

The chromatic scale is the essential foundation of music theory, yet it is rarely the starting point for most musicians. (It definitely wasn't for me!) This scale is important because it encompasses all 12 notes available within the Western musical system.

Hello there! Welcome to the "lite" version of Fertile Minds Jazz Academy. Here you get access to: 1. Once-monthly group chats 2. Weekly educational content 3. Free Ebooks (available in the classroom tab) 4. Paid courses This community is for musicians who are eager to improve, share knowledge, and collaborate with other musicians. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU DOWNLOAD THE SKOOL APP TO HAVE EASIER ACCESS TO THE COMMUNITY. There are 3 sections to this group: 1. General Discussion: This is where updates will be posted 2. Educational Videos: This is where all educational videos will be posted 3. Q&A: This is where you can post questions that can either be answered in live calls, videos or messages. Note: Failure to participate for one month will result in removal from the academy.