Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Bachelor of Music Honours
School
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts
First Supervisor
Tom O'Halloran
Abstract
Kenneth David Kirkland (Kenny Kirkland) was one of the most in demand and influential jazz pianists of the late twentieth century. Highly regarded among peers and critics, Kirkland worked extensively with numerous jazz luminaries and was best known for his work with both Wynton and Branford Marsalis, as well as with the pop star Sting.
This study aims to advance my ability as an improviser to access and utilise the melodic and rhythmic techniques featured within the improvisations of Kenny Kirkland. This aim was guided by observed limitations in my ability to shape the arc of my improvisations to push the musical narrative and create a strong sense of direction. To achieve this aim, the study initially focuses on exploring Kirkland’s career and improvisational style through a review of existing literature. Following this exploration, I identified Kirkland’s improvisations on Kenny Garrett’s “2 Down & 1 Across” (1997), and Clifford Brown’s “Daahoud” on Arturo Sandoval’s I Remember Clifford (1992) as particularly relevant to the guiding limitations, and subsequently transcribed and analysed both performances. The primary improvisational techniques identified through this analysis include; melodic planing, segmented diatonic patterns, octatonic sequences, motific development, cross-rhythms, and rhythmic ambiguity. These techniques were then split between and implemented into two three week long iterative cycles based upon existing practice-led research methodologies. These cycles were completed to assimilate the techniques into my own playing through the use of scaffolded practise systems, whilst evaluating the effectiveness of the process. The study extends the field of knowledge surrounding Kirkland’s improvisational style whilst also offering a potential model for other practitioners seeking to integrate unfamiliar techniques into their own practice.
DOI
10.25958/ydr3-8w02
Recommended Citation
Cope, R. (2026). A practice-led exploration into the melodic and rhythmic techniques of Kenny Kirkland. Edith Cowan University. https://doi.org/10.25958/ydr3-8w02