Some people journal every morning. I try to sing every day. First thing, before my brain even gets going and before my body is awake. If I’m paying attention, I can learn a lot.

Sometimes the decision is just where to improvise in the morning. The bedroom? The closet (while picking out clothes)? The kitchen? The front porch? I always interested to discover what my environment contributes to improvisation.

Other times, content is a larger factor. Do I have a “to do” list I can’t set aside? Has a dream provided me with a lyric or a visual that I want to futher explore? Is the song I was learning yesterday still buzzing around in my musical memory?

Of course, how I’m feeling also comes into play. Am I grumpy about being up early to sing? Have I enjoyed a lazy morning? Do I feel stressed? Relaxed? Singing first thing in the morning can often clarify my feelings of the moment or my plans for the day. A morning improv may launch me straight into a practice session or it may just get me ready do the business of the day.  In any case, it’s an informative way to start the day.

More Bloggity Goodness

• Working with the Broken Pieces