Richie describes a creative way to grow as an improviser: write out the solo you wish you could play. Not to memorize or perform, but to raise your musical imagination. Picture yourself recording with top-tier players like Jack DeJohnette and Dave Holland. You’re about to open the session with “Footprints.” What would your ideal solo sound like? Sit down and compose it—note by note.

Richie explains how this isn’t transcription or mimicry. It’s vision. By writing, you push past your current limits and discover new phrasing, harmony, and rhythm ideas. When you return to the horn or piano, you’ll feel freer and more inspired.