A scholarly guide to distinguishing the ‘horizontal’ approach of modal jazz from the ‘vertical’ nature of functional harmony. Learn to recognize the sonic markers of modality through harmonic stability and melodic freedom.
Exploring the pivotal role of St. Louis as a geographic and musical waypoint during the Great Migration. This analysis examines how the city synthesized New Orleans polyphony with the emerging urban sophistication of Chicago.
An exploration of how secular Cuban dance traditions, from the street-level energy of Rumba to the sophisticated structures of Danzón, fundamentally reshaped the rhythmic architecture of American jazz.
An exploration of ‘comping’—the sophisticated art of accompanying in jazz. From the sparse elegance of Count Basie to the dense modal textures of McCoy Tyner, this guide analyzes the harmonic and rhythmic strategies used to elevate the soloist.