Ostinato patterns in improvisation

Ostinatos are to classical music what riffs are to popular music.

There is a great explanation of the definition of ostinato at Wikipedia.

In short:-

In music, an ostinato (derived from Italian: “stubborn”, compare English: obstinate) is a motif or phrase which is persistently repeated at the same pitch. The repeating idea may be a rhythmic pattern, part of a tune, or a complete melody.[1] Both “ostinatos” and “ostinati” are accepted English plural forms.

Here are some simple steps to get the improvisation started at your piano:

1. Create an ostinato or riff on the left hand

Once the riff is created, the basic element of a song is alredy done. We have the tempo, the rhythm, the catchy motif, the key etc .. you name it. It is easy to start with C major, play chord C for 4 bars and then Chord F for 4 bars repetitively. Refer the video.

2. Improvise melody on the right hand

Just simply play what we hear in our mind. Hitting any of the white key should be fine.

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQzigNXsom0]

Reference :

Left-Hand Ostinato Patterns and Why They’re Perfect for Piano Improvisation!

Ostinato from Wikipedia

Classical ostinato

About The Author

KCLau

Online Musician, Pianist, Song-writer, Vocalist, Music Arranger

3 Comments

  • Crulle

    Reply Reply July 29, 2009

    Great help! Thanks a LOT!

    😀

  • Ozzu

    Reply Reply July 29, 2009

    This helped me out
    Keep on with your skillz!

    Cheers mate!

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