What is the definition of improvisation in music?

Improvisation in music refers to the spontaneous creation of music, allowing musicians to express their creativity and ideas in real-time without relying on pre-written scores or prior preparation. This process often involves drawing from a musician's knowledge of harmony, melody, and rhythm to create unique performances in the moment. It is a key aspect of many musical genres, such as jazz, where musicians often improvise solos and accompaniment, adapting their playing based on the mood and energy of the performance.

In contrast, the other options describe aspects of music that involve premeditation or specific structures. The arrangement of notes in a score implies a level of planning and notation that contradicts the essence of improvisation. Utilizing traditional melodies in new contexts focuses more on reinterpreting existing music rather than creating something new spontaneously. Lastly, the repetition of specific musical phrases suggests a structured approach, as opposed to the fluid and dynamic nature of improvisation where every performance can be different.