Improvisation Quote by Matt Thorne
““I have a lot of problems with fifteen-minute jazz-funk jams as well. I don’t care about instrumental prowess. I don’t care about quick-thinking improvisational skill. At all. I’m a songwriter and I’m familiar with Cage and I couldn’t really care about what notes people can think of quickly. It doesn’t interest me and I’m astounded that it interests other people still. Improvisation is what you do in the process of making something better.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast on songwriting, 2023
The speaker values structured songwriting over spontaneous jazz improvisation, seeing improvisation as a tool for improvement rather than a goal.
In simple terms: Prefers songwriting to improvisation; improvisation aids refinement.
Key Takeaway
Focus on crafting songs, use improvisation only as a method to enhance them.
Themes
songwriting
improvisation
creativity
music production
Mood
reflective
analytical
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- studio sessions
- live performances
- collaborative writing
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
process improvement
artistic intent
musical discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance structured composition with spontaneous ideas?
- When does improvisation become a hindrance?
A Different Perspective
Improvisation can still be essential for musical growth despite the speaker’s preference.
