Improvisation

Become a Better Improviser with Berklee

Study the same material as some of Berklee’s most renowned improvisers and develop the instinctive skills used to make real-time musical decisions.

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Masterclasses Are Here!

Learn from Berklee’s acclaimed instructors over the course of one live session for only $99.

Courses

Courses are best for students who are looking to meet a specific need, or simply want to get started with Berklee Online. No application necessary.

  • Next semester starts Jan 13, 2025
  • 12 Weeks / 4 Weeks
  • 5-10 Hours Per Week
OPERF-110
Level 1 Level 1
Undergraduate Course
Learn an approach to improvisation that applies to all styles and instruments by studying legendary players and finding your own style by learning to develop solos on the fly.
  • Credit: $1,545
  • Non-Credit: $1,290
OPERF-312
Level 3 Level 3
Undergraduate Course
Learn the art of jazz improvisation from Gary Burton, one of the most renowned improvisers in the jazz world.
  • Credit: $1,545
  • Non-Credit: $1,290
OVOIC-320
Level 3 Level 3
Undergraduate Course
In this R&B and pop Improvisation course, you will learn several techniques in improvisation in the R&B and pop styles. You will learn riffs based on the pentatonic scales, the use of mixed voice, falsetto, belting, gritty textures, and other widely used techniques in the R&B and pop genres, while applying them to well known songs by Etta James, Christina Aguilera, The Weeknd, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Justin Timberlake, Prince, Demi Lavato, and more.
  • Credit: $1,245
  • Non-Credit: $1,090
OGUIT-420
Level 4 Level 4
Undergraduate Course
Learn to play a great guitar solo! Guitar Improvisation Techniques is for guitarists who may know the technical aspects of playing, but lack the theory needed to build a solo that moves listeners.
  • Credit: $1,545
  • Non-Credit: $1,290

Certificates

Gain the professional credentials and marketable skills you need to succeed in your specific area of the music industry. Certificates range from foundational-skill building to graduate-level. No application necessary.

  • Next semester starts Jan 13, 2025
  • 3-18 Months
  • 5-10 Hours Per Week
Advanced Professional
8 Courses · 24 Credits
This customizable program allows you to earn an Advanced Professional Certificate in General Music Studies by choosing eight courses from any interest area.
Professional
4 Courses · 12 Credits
This customizable program allows you to earn a Professional Certificate in General Music Studies by choosing four courses from any interest area.

Degree Programs

Degree programs are the most affordable and flexible option for earning your music degree from Berklee College of Music. They are the best option for students who want a music education degree and the full Berklee experience.

  • Apply by Nov 12 for Jan 13, 2025 semester start.
    • Apply in as little time as 15 minutes
    • Get a decision within 1 week
    • $75 application fee waived through November 12
  • Master's Degree: 1-3 Years
    Bachelor's Degree: 2-4 Years
  • 5-10 Hours Per Week
36 Credits
Expand your knowledge and skills in four areas critical to advancing a career in the music industry: music business, music production and technology, songwriting, and film scoring.
120 Credits
Develop a unique guitar sound and improve your technique and musicianship through a rigorous study that includes private lessons with Berklee’s renowned faculty.
120 Credits
“Build your own” music major by selecting coursework from a number of disciplines that align with your personal career goals.
45 of 120 Credits
This major is geared specifically for new and entering students who are not yet ready to declare their major.

New! Masterclasses

With Berklee Online’s new Masterclasses, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from Berklee's acclaimed instructors over the course of one live session for only $99.

Get Access to Free Handbooks

Gain access to real course content from Berklee Online's 12-week, instructor-led online courses. From foundational concepts to advanced techniques, these free handbooks cover a variety of topics, all designed to provide you with marketable skills in music.

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