The Infinity Loop
The most basic structure for extended group improvisation, this exercise challenges singers and players to take their simple melodies one step further.
Use this exercise to learn how to create extended improvised music.
- Sit or stand in a circle with a group no smaller than two people, but no larger than four or five.
- One person begins the game by singing a simple melody. Remember to create your melody one tone at a time. Within your melody, make sure you establish a clear, simple-to-follow pulse.
- While the first player or singer is creating their initial melody, the other participants listen intently.
- Once the first person has established a simple groove and melody, they invite their neighbor to join them by either imitating what they hear or adding something new.
- Once everyone has joined the song, the group works together to find a way to bring the song to a meaningful end.
The challenge of the Infinity Loop lies in the way that it simultaneously asks participants to play the role of both soloist and support.
You can vary this exercise in countless ways. The most exciting variation happens when each member of the group takes a solo over the groove. A solo happens when you say something new, bold, or exciting. It can also happen when the group simply makes space for one individual to be heard.