RHYTHMIC DEVICES WITHIN THE IMPROVISATION OF SCOTT TINKLER

Abstract

This thesis is an analysis of the rhythmic dynamism within the improvised performances of Australian trumpet soloist Scott Tinkler. Over his career Tinkler has consistently demonstrated the execution of complex musical concepts on the instrument. He has developed a vocabulary for improvisation that has influenced generations of jazz and improvising trumpeters and continues to influence not just trumpet players but improvisers throughout the Australian music community. This thesis explores Tinkler’s main mentors and influences and the development of his improvising style. I have chosen the Scott Tinkler Trio and one composition from each commercially released record for analysis. Through transcription of these compositions and Tinkler’s improvised trumpet solos and a step-by-step analysis of the rhythmic devices within three Tinkler compositions, I will provide evidence of Tinkler’s awareness of complex subdivision and his intuitive application of complex rhythmic concepts in an improvised setting.