The relationship between harmony and rhythm in progressive music genres

Abstract

This research studies the links between the vast array of harmonic and rhythmic elements in progressive music genres, mainly focusing on progressive rock and fusion which are two styles which underwent an intense development and flourishing in the 1970s. The music being studied is one which has won battles against criticism of pomposity and flamboyance due to its serious nature in highly technical and virtuosic pieces of art rock music. The overlap and crossover between progressive rock and fusion is also to be looked into since the two, although coming from different backgrounds, share several common elements but not enough to be put under one stylistic title. The harmonic and rhythmic elements which are being observed and the analytic case studies will provide the ideas for a set of compositions which form four contrasting pieces which are, yet, in line with the topic of discussion while still keeping an authentic flavour. The four pieces explore different options of instrumentation and also focus particularly on the sound of the electric band. The roots of inspiration for progressive rock and fusion bands, which range from jazz to Classical music are also explored as ideas throughout the portfolio of compositions. Having said this, the orchestral piece bridges a link between what has been done, what is available to us today and what will presumably follow up using the many elements of technology and knowledge in musical tools . The dissertation is divided into three main parts, with the first part being a literature review researching the topic chosen and a documentation of analysis of the composition portfolio which makes up part two. The portfolio is made up of four different pieces, one for solo piano, a chorale piece with accompanying guitar, a piece for modern band with brass section and a final piece for orchestra with three synthesisers and electric guitar. Part three of this dissertation is the audio documentation of the compositions which can be found on the accompanying CD. The research carried out and the portfolio are completed in the context of Bachelor of Arts (Honours) dissertation.