Caption: Keith Jarrett at the piano
Performances of all kinds take practice. Most artists live by the expression "practice makes perfect." People who give concerts or recitals often practice a lot! However, one style of performance is different. This style is called improvisation. It is sometimes abbreviated as improv.
The dictionary defines "improvise" as "to make, invent, or arrange offhand." A person makes things up as he or she goes along. This might sound simple. However, it takes great skill. Singers and musicians can improvise. Actors and dancers can, too. Improvisers have often worked hard to become good at their art form. This hard work and experience helps them become good at improvising.