This course studies the art and practice of solo performances, from individual solo works to presentation of concert length programs. There should be a high degree of improvised materials, combined with careful preparation. Students develop work based on thematic and structural elements, using both song form and open form improvisation, and explore the ways these ideas can be combined. Students study how artists throughout the history of the music have engaged these ideas. This course welcomes players of single line instruments, vocalists, and percussion, as well as players of chordal instruments, which have the longest tradition of solo performance. This course teaches students to "recompose" standards in a personal way to enhance a solo performance. The work of important solo improvisors like Cecil Taylor, Marilyn Crispell, Charmaine Lee, Evan Parker, Max Roach, Sylvie Courvoisier, Mary Halvorson, Anthony Braxton, Ikue Mori, and Thelonious Monk are mined for inspiration. Students perform for each other and critique each others' work in an environment of mutual respect.