Extended Techniques

Definition

Extended techniques refer to unconventional methods of sound production on musical instruments that go beyond traditional playing styles. These techniques often involve altering the instrument or the way it is played, creating new textures and effects that expand the expressive capabilities of the music. In jazz, these techniques became prominent with pioneering musicians and during the avant-garde movement, pushing the boundaries of improvisation and composition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Extended techniques began to gain recognition in jazz during the mid-20th century, particularly through the works of avant-garde musicians who sought new forms of expression.
2. Notable jazz musicians, such as John Coltrane and Ornette Coleman, incorporated extended techniques into their improvisations, challenging traditional concepts of melody and harmony.
3. The use of extended techniques can create a diverse range of sounds, from percussive hits on instruments to unconventional vocalizations.
4. These techniques often encourage collaboration and experimentation among musicians, fostering innovative approaches to both performance and composition.
5. Extended techniques have influenced many contemporary genres, merging elements of jazz with classical music, experimental sounds, and world music traditions.

Review Questions

• How did pioneering jazz musicians utilize extended techniques to redefine their sound and approach to improvisation?
  • Pioneering jazz musicians utilized extended techniques to break away from conventional sounds and explore new realms of expression. By incorporating methods such as multiphonics and prepared piano, they expanded their improvisational palette, allowing for more creative freedom in their performances. This redefinition helped to shape modern jazz, encouraging a more experimental mindset among artists and fostering a richer musical dialogue.
• In what ways did the avant-garde movement in jazz influence the development and acceptance of extended techniques among musicians?
  • The avant-garde movement in jazz played a crucial role in influencing the development and acceptance of extended techniques by challenging established norms and encouraging innovation. Musicians within this movement embraced unconventional sound production methods as a means of self-expression and exploration. This openness led to a wider appreciation for experimental approaches within the broader jazz community, paving the way for future generations to incorporate these techniques into their own work.
• Evaluate the impact of extended techniques on the evolution of jazz as a genre and its relationship with other musical styles.
  • Extended techniques have significantly impacted the evolution of jazz by pushing its boundaries and facilitating cross-genre collaborations. As musicians adopted these unconventional methods, jazz became intertwined with various styles such as classical music, rock, and world music, creating a rich tapestry of influences. This blending has allowed for greater experimentation within jazz itself, helping it to evolve continuously while inspiring new genres that reflect diverse musical traditions and contemporary issues.

Related terms

Multiphonics: A technique used primarily on wind instruments where multiple pitches are produced simultaneously, creating a complex harmonic texture.

Prepared Piano: A method of altering the sound of a piano by placing objects between or on the strings, resulting in unique timbres and effects.

Circular Breathing: A technique used by wind players to produce a continuous sound without interruption by inhaling through the nose while simultaneously expelling air through the mouth.