Buy my debut CD

"Improvisations"

11 tracks, all performed and recorded extemporaneously in one take with no editing or processing of any kind.

Physical CD	$11+$4 shipping to U.S. addresses	buy now
Download	$7.50	buy now
Two sample tracks	Free	download: "Andrea" "Abstract Waltz"

The MP3's for the download version were carefully converted at 192 kbps, much higher quality than the songs that Apple sells at its iTunes store. Even so, those wishing a faithful replication of the original recording event will prefer the physical CD version which was mastered with great care and precision. Even a high quality MP3 conversion involves loss of detail and nuance and does not fully convey the power, majesty, harmonic richness, spatial detail and delicacy of a Yamaha Conservatory Grand.

More info about this CD.

Mario Mattia

Improv Pianist

Andrea Abstract Waltz Dichotomy Prayer Hope Abstract Boogie Sanctuary Ice Acceptance Two-Part Invention Loss

My Improvisational Method

Improvisation has traditionally involved playing (or singing) extemporaneously, especially by inventing variations on a melody or creating new melodies in accordance with a set progression of chords. Typically, there is a given song, for example Gershwin's Summertime. After the artist states Summertime's theme, improvisation takes place based entirely upon the inherent key/chord progression as well as the melodic characteristics of Summertime. Occasionally, improvisations are radical in their departure from the inherent thematic/chord structure of a piece, but most improvisations follow the aforementioned procedure of maintaining adherence to the underlying structure and chord progression.

My improvisations are extemporaneously performed and recorded and depart from this traditional method of improvisation in that they are (become) unique, original compositions created with absolutely no preconceived ideas.

I press the record button and begin playing -- my current emotional/physical states are the primary catalysts -- and my improvisational journey continues into the unknown. I never know, or can predict, what form the improvisation might take: length, tonality, atonality (or the term that I prefer -- non-tonality), rhythm, form, tempo, etc. develop on a purely intuitive level incorporating all that I know and have assimilated.

These improvisations tend to be allegorical in nature and, as such and in order to facilitate understanding, I have reluctantly decided to add a simple descriptive title to each. I wish to emphasize that these titles were appended after recording. For those among you so inclined, I can offer two scores -- Abstract Waltz and Two-Part Invention -- painstakingly transcribed after the fact by my superb transcriptionist, Howard Begun.

My work reverses the usual method of deriving the music from the score. Repeated, concentrated listenings at concert volumes will reveal nuance, detail, and subtlety not necessarily apparent the first several times through. It is my sincere hope that these improvisations inspire and illuminate.

Mario Mattia

Improv Pianist

My Improvisational Method

Read about my debut CD.