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improvisation

[im-prov-uh-zey-shuhn, im-pruh-vuh-] / ɪmˌprɒv əˈzeɪ ʃən, ˌɪm prə və- /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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Messi's genius has always been rooted in improvisation.

From BBC Jul. 11, 2026

That’s still my favorite kind of recipe: one that knows exactly what it is while leaving plenty of room for improvisation.

From Salon Jul. 4, 2026

He didn’t win, but he proved himself again the master of improvisation.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 15, 2026

And, on any given night, he didn’t hesitate to expand an improvisation to startling lengths, finding new ideas well beyond the imaginative limits of most jazz players.

From Los Angeles Times May 26, 2026

In fact, improvisation is an advanced and highly sophisticated skill in which the musician must draw upon all of their previously practiced knowledge and techniques in order to compose “in the moment.”

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin

One of the most unusual examples was his fascination with solo saxophone improvisations, notably on the appropriately titled “The Solo Album.”

From Los Angeles Times May 26, 2026

The pianos are made in significant numbers, but each one requires the application of personalized craft; Mr. Payne’s photographs display Steinway employees with the technical virtuosity and artistic improvisations of fine musicians.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 25, 2026

His contrapuntal beats lend context to tenor saxophonist Billy Pierce’s abstract improvisations; his laid-back rim shots ground pianist Johnny O’Neal’s lyrical lines.

From The Wall Street Journal Dec. 15, 2025

Slattery was known and loved for his quick-witted improvisations on the popular Channel 4 show Whose Line Is It Anyway?, from 1988 onwards.

From BBC Jan. 14, 2025

For even more possibilities, try a web search for "exotic scales"; or try inventing your own scales and using them in compositions and improvisations.

From "Understanding Basic Music Theory" by Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Russel Jones




Vocabulary lists containing improvisation


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