Phantasmagoria : Kaleidoscopic exploration of interplay, interaction, and balance between instruments in a jazz quartet

Sammanfattning

Abstract This project explored the dynamics of interplay, interaction and balance within a jazz quartet consisting of bass, drums, piano and guitar, focusing on the transition from individual ideas to a collective musical expression, moving away from the traditional soloist-accompanist hierarchy, where the rhythm section serves primarily as a support for a front-line. This research addressed this perceived relationship while cultivating a co-creational ethos in more than just the music. The aim of this project was to establish a flexible framework for composing within the rehearsal process, investigating how musical constraints and open communication foster deeper mutual responsiveness and create a kaleidoscopic exploration of interplay in a quartet without a typical melody instrument. To achieve this, the study addressed three questions: first, how compositions facilitated the exploration of varied levels of empathic interaction; second, how a cyclic methodology of reflection and collective shaping negotiated the tension between compositional intent and the band's collective voice; and third, how the dual role of facilitator and architect shaped the functionality and development of the ensemble. The practice-led cyclic methodology consisted of preparation, execution and reflection including composing, rehearsing, recording and sessions with expert mentors to refine the overall collective expression. Central to this work is the metaphor of a “collaborative organism”, analysed through the layers of the body (interpersonal ethos), the skeleton (orchestration and form), the nervous system (interaction and interplay), and the pulse (the dual role as the bassist and the architect). The research therefore has led to developing two distinct “toolboxes” for interaction, interplay and improvisation designed to de-centre the individual musicians from their own musical perspectives and reach a state called “empathic attunement” that allows each individual voice to take creative risks and cultivates a mutual responsibility. The artistic results are documented through compositions that were performed and recorded. Findings indicated that by being open minded and including the band members in the process of shaping the music in form, harmony, melody, rhythm and sound, the quartet achieved more porous and vibrant interaction. The body of this work can also serve as a practical model for ensembles seeking to move beyond conventional soloist-accompanist roles by framing musical interaction as an ethical practice for co-creation. The project provides insights into the sustainability of collective creativity and the potential of a shared space to explore the unknown. Keywords: co-creation, interaction, interplay, jazz ensemble, composing, empathic attunement, mutual responsiveness, collaborative organism