Freedom through discipline : the use of rhythmic devices in the music of Mark Simmonds

Abstract

This thesis will examine the use of rhythmic devices employed in compositions from the CD Fire by the Australian jazz saxophonist Mark Simmonds. Revered by his peers, Simmonds has not received a commensurate response reflecting his true stature in Australian jazz from within academic circles. The composer’s most well known rhythmic concept, termed ‘rhythm cycles’, has not been investigated at all. This thesis seeks to redress that imbalance by focusing on rhythm cycles more than the other rhythmic devices. Under investigation here is the idea of polymeter created from the phrasing of polyrhythms. Other rhythms examined include repetition, displacement, symmetrical and asymmetrical phrasing as well as the ‘dotted crotchet figure' which is used to divide polyrhythms. These rhythmic ideas, particularly when employed in combination with one another, function to disrupt a sense of the pulse and thus represent a form of ‘freedom*. The thesis will include a biography of the artist’s career, a brief glossary of terminology as well as the methodology and background. The latter includes the discovery of video footage showing the artist rehearsing and explaining the very same rhythms under investigation here.