Dissertation Index
Author: Love, Stefan E Title: On Phrase Rhythm in Jazz Institution: University of Rochester Begun: June 2010 Completed: April 2011 Abstract: Phrase rhythm is the interaction of grouping structure and metrical structure. In jazz improvisation, these structures behave in ways that theories of phrase rhythm designed for classical music cannot accommodate. Specifically, jazz improvisation involves the superimposition of a highly flexible grouping structure on a pre-determined and predictable metrical-harmonic scheme. In this context, theories of phrase rhythm that depend on voice-leading or harmony neglect the subtleties of grouping structure. In this dissertation, I present a new method for the analysis of jazz phrase rhythm. I classify each phrase based on its relationship to the metrical hierarchy, as manifested in two characteristics: 1) the pattern of metrical accents it overlaps (prosody), and 2) its occupation of metrical units, from one to eight measures in length. For example, a 4-phrase occupies a four-bar hypermeasure, and may be beginning-, end-, un-, or double-accented. The basic phrase-types may be combined and altered in various ways. I include detailed analyses of fifteen solos on several different forms, including AABA, ABAC, and twelve-bar blues. Throughout an improvised solo, phrase rhythm fluctuates between states of consonance and dissonance, as the grouping structure variously supports or contradicts the metrical structure. Phrase rhythm thus contributes immensely to this music’s aesthetic value. Keywords: Jazz, phrase rhythm, phrasing, meter, improvisation TOC: Part I: Theory Introduction: What is Jazz? What is Phrase Rhythm? Chapter 1: Meter and Grouping in Jazz Chapter 2: The Analytical Method Part II: Applications Introduction to Part II Chapter 3: Thirty-Two-Bar Schemes in AABA Form Chapter 4: Thirty-Two-Bar Schemes in ABAC Form Chapter 5: The Twelve-Bar Blues Chapter 6: Metrically Atypical Schemes Chapter 7: Some Pedagogical and Analytical Extensions Works Cited Index of Recordings and Transcriptions Appendix A: Glossary of Terms and Notations Appendix B: Complete Transcriptions and Analyses Contact: stefan.caris.love@gmail.com |