'Narrowing the gap' - notational prescription and extended techniques in selected classical saxophone repertoire

  • Kenneth Wilkinson

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

The use of notational prescription and extended techniques are effective in 'narrowing the gap' between composer and performer insofar as they instruct actions that can be used to allude to the 'imaginings' of the composer. This alluding to intent is more successful if there is an agreed symbolic language and resultant performative action. The performer can then build their version of the composer's 'imaginings', and contribute to the conversation using the same language.

This research is an exploration of the shared 'imaginings' between composer and performer through a series of experimental case studies. In particular, how the use of extended techniques and notational prescription support the sharing of 'imaginings' enabling a more accurate realisation of a score.

The dialogue focuses on classical saxophone performance in the French tradition, encompassing discussions relating to instrumental treatises and the influence of equipment choice.
Date of Award11 Jan 2019
Original languageEnglish
SupervisorJohn Bryan (Main Supervisor)

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