Time and again, I find myself drawn to my old Ibach piano, not to play predetermined pieces, but to improvise. For me, improvisation is a way to transcend the boundaries of form and structure and to express myself in a moment of pure creativity. Each note is newly created, without expectation and without a set goal.
It’s not easy to put this creative process into words. How do you describe the feeling of sitting at the piano and simply playing without a plan? Often, I start with individual notes or chords that come to mind. Sometimes, it’s simple melodies that I play repeatedly, paying attention to the sound and observing my body’s reactions. These initial ideas are often imperfect, but they serve as a springboard for something greater.
Recently, I sat at my Ibach in the living room, surrounded by the familiar sounds of everyday life – the soft rustle of the street and the distant sounds of a neighbour. On that evening, I felt particularly contemplative and wanted to find a connection to the instrument. With each keystroke, I sensed a kind of dialogue developing between me and the piano. I experimented with different harmonies and rhythms, letting my fingers glide over the keys and feeling a musical story wanting to unfold.
The music that emerged was reflective and straightforward. It captured my thoughts and feelings without me being able to name them specifically. It was as if the notes were picking up and transforming my inner state. I noticed that, during the playing, I delved deeper into my memories, allowing experiences from the past to flow into the music. Sometimes, images from my childhood surfaced – moments of wonder or uncertainty that were reflected in the melody.
In this spontaneous act of creation, I often discover new facets of myself. It’s less about crafting something perfect and more about seeing what happens when I surrender to the moment. I try to let go of control and allow the music to develop on its own. Improvisation speaks directly to me and connects me to something that is often hard to put into words. It’s an experience that is both challenging and liberating.
How does this music resonate with you?
I would love to hear your thoughts. In what ways do these spontaneous sounds speak to your own experiences? I am very interested in how my music touches your emotions and reflections.
