Non-conventional approaches in improvisation: Monophonic accompaniment and negotiable harmony
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Research Statement
Research Background
This jazz music performance research draws upon my previous practice-led research in the area of improvised counterpoint and explores the role of monophonic-accompaniment and improvised harmonic extension. As the saxophone is a monophonic instrument, it is rare to be called upon to act within a harmonic support role. Practitioners such as Sonny Rollins have supported other soloists in small group settings where a harmonic instrument is not present, by using melody to suggest harmonic movement and structures in form. This research extends this practice by developing strategies for accompanying other harmonic instruments and ‘negotiating’ harmony that moves away from the conventional form.
Research Contribution
Through this practice-led research, original approaches were developed to allow for a flexible approach to harmony negotiation and form definition in performance. Using a “Relative Tension” approach, melodies were improvised to imply similar tension levels to harmonic substitutions and extensions. While it is impossible to match specific harmonic substitutions in spontaneous improvisation, the accompanying melodies can create dissonance or consonance and produce similar tension profiles to the soloist. In this manner, a higher level of interaction between ensemble members can occur and new, unplanned pathways can be offered in improvisation. Similarly, harmonic form can be explored through delayed or anticipated resolution of melody. These two elements create the sound of ‘negotiable harmony’ in recording and performance.
Research Significance
Outcomes from this research continue to be applied in ensemble and improvisation performance practice. The album “Between the Lines of Stillness” was released by Assemblers Music, with performances in 2024 scheduled at the Melbourne Jazz Festival, Perth Jazz festival and the Sydney International Jazz festival. Other performances also occurred in 2023 at major venues in New Zealand and in Melbourne.
Non-Traditional Research Output
Live Performance
Document Type
Non-Traditional Research Output
Date of Publication
2023
Location of the Work
Melbourne / Perth / Auckland, NZ / Christchurch
School
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts
RAS ID
70258
Event Dates
Multiple dates
Event Venue
Jazzlab (Melbourne), Paris Cat (Melbourne), Ellington Jazz Club (Perth), CJC (Auckland, NZ), Space Academy (Christchurch)
Album Name
Between the Lines of Stillness
Comments
Oehlers, J. (2023). Non-conventional approaches in improvisation: Monophonic accompaniment and negotiable harmony. [Musical Performance].