Exploring improvisation pedagogy based on participatory and M-base characteristics: an action research study

This action research study explored my personal pedagogy of improvisation through a combined lens of Thomas Turino’s (2008) participatory field of music and the M-base collective. Influenced by the imbalance between performance-based goals and presentational music-making in high school settings and my personal lack of experience teaching improvisation, this study focused on learning how to teach improvisation away from typical educational outcomes such as assessment, curricular outcomes, and presentational values. Four high school students and two post-high school musicians participated in four two-hour sessions which took place at the Bassment in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Through the use of an action research cycle, several key themes emerged based on the participants’ experiences in regards to the purpose, process and reason for teaching improvisation. I came to the following four conclusions based on the actions that occurred during the study: a teacher needs to create attainable levels for successful improvisation; the facilitator role requires time for reflection and practice; participating allowed me to recognize and challenge personal self-doubt around improvisation; and improvisation can thrive in a non-traditional environment through a balance between structure and freedom. The thesis concludes with future recommendations for educators, researchers, and myself. Keywords: improvisation, participatory, M-base, secondary, music education, action research