This comprehensive, pedagogical work by János Gonda (1932-2021), the renowned jazz pianist, composer and teacher, introduces musicians to the secrets of improvisation. While the second and third volumes of the three-volume set deal mostly with the genre of jazz, this first volume presents the most basic methods of musical improvisation. It was written specifically for music school teachers and those familiar with classical music. It is intended primarily - but not exclusively - for pianists, therefore it can also be used by other instrumentalists and singers.