Improvisation and composition are words frequently used in the western world to describe the creation of music. But are they really two distinct processes, or are they aspects of the same phenomenon? In this free course, Composition and improvisation in cross-cultural perspective, we will explore the relationship between the two using examples of Asian music to help us clarify the concepts.

Course learning outcomes After studying this course, you should be able to: discuss different perspectives on the creation of music, in particular, composition and improvisation

understand the basic principles underlying North Indian art music

understand the basic principles underlying Sundanese gamelan music.