Developing a compositional approach through examining commonalities between modern classical and contemporary jazz/progressive styles

Abstract

This commentary and accompanying portfolio of work explores shared compositional techniques found in progressive instrumental jazz and rock musicand the work of twentieth century classical composers (Olivier Messiaen in particular). This study focuses primarily on the use of plus heptatonic (+7) scales,particular subsets of eight and nine note pitch collections that extend beyond conventional diatonic frameworks, whilst also touching on cyclic processes and structural tempo relationships. I analyse how two artists from markedly different musical backgrounds (Jazz fusion guitarist Allan Holdsworth and 20th century composer Olivier Messiaen) employed these scales in their work, highlighting the diverse ways their musical expression shaped the same melodic and harmonic source materials. This investigation subsequently informs a discussion of my own compositions, examining how they draw upon and transform these musical traditions, situating them within a wider context of 21st century music. My methodology is mostly through comparative analysis, examining what parallels can be drawn between the fields of classical and progressive music, and how these might be utilised in the creation of an original portfolio of work

Date of Award	9 Jun 2026
Original language	English
Supervisor	Bryn Harrison (Main Supervisor)