First Advisor
Garcia, Socrates J.
Document Type
Dissertation
Date Created
8-2019
Abstract
This dissertation examined and compared six pieces for large jazz ensemble composed and arranged by Thad Jones. The analyses focused on Jones’ arranging and scoring techniques developed through three distinct periods of his career. In Jones’ early period, his arranging style showed influences from the Count Basie Orchestra as evidenced in blues vocabulary, call-and-response between saxophones and brass, and the form and structure of the arrangements. In his middle period, he explored symphonic sounds, suite-like forms, and elements from rock-jazz and funk-jazz music. In his late period, a more comprehensive development of tension and release guided his arranging. The vacancy of the melody, the use of unidentified poly-chords, and other unconventional arranging techniques were tools for Jones’ musical expressions. Jones’ characteristic arranging techniques summarized in the dissertation helped define his style. This comparative study has the potential to inform young arrangers how Jones’ arranging style developed over time.
Extent
122 pages
Local Identifiers
Su_unco_0161D_10743.pdf
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by the author.
Recommended Citation
Su, Chang, "The Development of Thad Jones’ Arranging/Scoring Style: A Comparative Study of Six Works for Large Jazz Ensemble" (2019). Dissertations. 585.
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/dissertations/585