Beyond Ideas: The Melodic Shapes in Selected Improvisations of Saxophonist David Binney

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine specific melodic elements of saxophonist David Binney. The five improvised solos were selected from standard jazz repertoire that Binney has produced, as well as an improvisation from one of his compositions. Each solo was transcribed and examined to identify repeated melodic devices. The analysis presents a detailed examination of the repeated use of appoggiaturas, enclosures, neighbour groups, multi-note encirclements, encirclement chains, and two melodic motifs. The melodic formulae that are employed are discussed in the analysis with illustrated examples. An interview with Binney was conducted to discuss his performance practice and the melodic devices identified in his improvisations.