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LIA DAVIS :: IMPROVISATION

I learned to improvise first at the piano, then as a dancer. Learning to improvise well (i.e. fluidly) was one of the more challenging and rewarding experiences in my life — it was a catalyst and tool for self-discovery. Improvising involves taking risks in the moment. It compelled me to listen, to be open, and to be present. When I failed to do so, I would fall flat on my face, musically speaking — an improvisational "space" precisely reflected my current state of being.

Increasingly, through these kinds of experiences, I found improvisation to be extremely compelling — as an activity, as a mindset or approach, and as a tool. Further reflection in the last few years has led me to consider improvisation as a metaphor and model for processes outside of music-making and dance — things like communicating and collaborating, solving problems, and facilitating learning. I continue to explore improvisation, both conceptually and on the ground; here, I share some of the conceptual work I have done.