How do I get started?
The ideal starter kit is the IFR E-book Package. This includes the IFR e-book along with IFR Jam Tracks Levels 1 and 2. The IFR e-book contains the complete method for all instruments, and our first two levels of jam tracks will get you improvising your own music over chords and chord progressions. For complete details, please click here.
Do I need to install a special app to use the e-book and other learning materials?
There is no special app required. All of our materials can be used instantly on any smartphone, tablet or computer.
Can I download the materials as many times as I want?
Yes. You can download the materials as many times as you want, and you can download them to all of your personal devices.
What level of ability do I need on my instrument?
IFR is open to all instruments and all ability levels. We all play differently, so you just need to play like you! To enjoy the method, all that's required is to be able to comfortably play the notes on your instrument. (So for example, I wouldn't recommend IFR to a small child who is still struggling just to make a sound.) But if you're able to play the notes on your instrument comfortably, you're ready to start improvising!
Do I need to be able to read sheet music?
No. In fact there isn't a single line of traditional sheet music notation in the entire method. In IFR we learn to create each sound equally in all 12 keys right from the beginning, so we simply don't have any need for sheet music in order to study and create these sounds.
As a guitarist, should I start with the e-book or the video course?
Guitarists have the option of learning the method through our step-by-step video course. If you prefer to learn through video, this might be a better option for you. To see the pros and cons of each, please view this article.
How long before I'll be truly improvising?
You'll be improvising your own music right from the very first day. The method starts with very simple creative exercises that you can begin right away. These exercises teach you the basic building blocks of our musical system. As you progress, the method leads you on a natural evolution through the entire world of modern harmony. But you'll be jamming and creating your own music right from the start.
Is the method fun to practice?
Playing music is supposed to be fun! Your practice time should be YOUR time to connect with your own creativity and your love of music. One of the things that makes Improvise for Real so successful is that it’s fun and highly addictive. Hear what students say about it on our testimonials page.
Will I be able to understand it?
Improvise for Real is designed for everyone, even complete beginners. You don’t need to be able to read sheet music or know anything at all about music theory to begin. The method itself will teach you everything you need.
Does the method produce results?
Improvise for Real has been adopted by both students and teachers in more than 20 countries because it works. Students of Improvise for Real develop a deep personal mastery of harmony that enables them to understand music by ear and to improvise with confidence in any musical situation. You will learn to recognize both the chords and the melody to any song you hear. You will learn how to play any song you know in any key effortlessly. And you will learn to play directly from your imagination, expressing any sound or melody exactly as you hear it in your mind. You will even learn to compose your OWN songs and chord progressions.
Is it a great value for the money?
If you're passionate about learning to create your own music, we believe that Improvise for Real is the best investment you will ever make. Our testimonials page describes some of the ways that the method has completely transformed the creative lives of our students. And you can purchase the complete method for less than the cost of a single music lesson in most cities. We think this is an incredible value for a musical system that you will be enjoying for the rest of your life.
Can I get my money back if I’m not totally satisfied?
Absolutely. For our electronic materials, you can use and enjoy these materials for a full 60 days before deciding whether to keep them. If you aren't completely satisfied with your purchase, just send us an e-mail within the first 60 days and we'll be happy to refund your money. For our workshops, we offer a 14 day trial period from the start date of the workshop. This allows you to take the first two weeks of any of our workshops and request a full refund if you aren't completely satisfied with the course.