Book excerpt: This book teaches the improvisation of classical piano music through a step-by-step method including the use of chord tone approaches, scales, arpeggios, non-chord tones, motivic development, ornamentation, modulation, stylistic variation, and more. By practicing simple tasks the pianist escapes the mental pressure of performing on the spot and develops the ease and freedom of improvising in classical styles. This book also includes 7 variations on a theme by Beethoven illustrating the improvisational concept and technique. Includes CD.