As music teachers, we teach a creative subject—but often lean on structure over spontaneity. While rhythmic improvisation is more common, melodic improvisation can feel harder to introduce. In this session, discover how to cultivate melodic improvisation in students of all ages, even our youngest learners, through Guided Vocal Improvisation. Guided Vocal Improvisation is an easy and flexible approach that meets each individual’s musical comfort level and can easily translate to instrumental exploration and more. The speaker will lead participants through a Guided Vocal Improvisation activity designed to introduce melodic improvisation. Beginning with foundational steps for working with beginners, the session will demonstrate how to gradually increase complexity as students gain confidence and skill. Participants will also explore a variety of extension ideas to keep students engaged and growing musically. You'll leave with practical strategies ready to implement immediately and a roadmap for building on them in every class that follows.