The Art of Accompanying the Jazz Vocalist - A Survey of Piano Styles and Techniques

White, Christopher E.

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Description

Title

The Art of Accompanying the Jazz Vocalist - A Survey of Piano Styles and Techniques

Author(s)

White, Christopher E.

Issue Date

2010-12-15

Doctoral Committee Chair(s)

Stephens, John Chip

Committee Member(s)

• Magee, Jeffrey S.
• Pugh, James
• Tharp, Reynold

Department of Study

Music

Discipline

Jazz Performance

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

D.M.A.

Degree Level

Dissertation

Keyword(s)

• jazz dissertation
• thesis
• piano
• vocal
• jazz vocals

Abstract

This study examines the process of accompanying the jazz vocalist and explains the performance subtleties inherent in the art form from the pianist’s perspective. Through interviews of eight pianists, the study specifies differences between instrumental and vocal accompanying and explains how pianists learn and improve upon their accompaniment skills. The study addresses common issues that arise when working with a vocalist, such as creating appropriate introductions, performing rubato, performing in a duo setting, the use of musical texture, chord voicings, avoiding harmonic conflicts with the melody, the improvised solo, transposition and the effect of lyrics and ornamentation of the vocal line. The project examines how an accompanist arranges for and adapts to the each vocalist. Descriptions of musical examples and transcriptions from recordings supplement and illuminate the artist’s comments. This study finds that there is a difference between being a proficient improviser and a proficient accompanist. The preeminent accompanists are, in essence, co-collaborators with vocalists. There is currently sparse academic study in the area of jazz vocal accompaniment and this project seeks to fill that void.

Type of Resource

text

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