The Technique and Theory of Improvisation: A practical guide for flutists, doublers, and other instrumentalists

This book is a concise but comprehensive guide to (1) the technique (articulation, vibrato, and breathing) and (2) the theory (rhythm, melody and harmony) that are essential in learning to improvise. The book also addresses how to integrate the technique with the theory using a simple melodic approach, based on small bits that you can develop into bigger bits. In addition, the book examines practical issues such as analyzing tunes, using an idiomatic approach, and transcribing, with plenty of examples and illustrations. As Sir James Galway points out in the foreword, this is a useful and valuable source of reference for the aspiring student and the experienced performer or teacher.