The Effect of Metre on the Use of Tones in Jazz Improvisation

Abstract

Syncopations and polyrhythms are usually considered quite common in jazz. Therefore, it would seem possible that in addition to basic metrical structures there are also other relatively strong sub-structures caused, for example, by extensive syncopations. In this study the effect of metre on the use of tones in bebop style jazz improvisations was examined. In particular, it was investigated whether there are other periodicities in addition to the basic metrical structures that effect the use of tones.