Polyphony as a compositional device of Dave Holland

Abstract

Dave Holland is one of the most influential jazz musicians alive today both as a performer and composer. The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the counterpoint sections of compositions by Dave Holland performed by the Dave Holland Quintet on the recording Prime Directive. Data derived from transcriptions of these counterpoint sections was the basis of statistical analysis looking at density and timbre, phrase counterpoint, interval structure, tessitura, and rhythmic elements. It was shown that Holland’s polyphony has many consistencies in its construction resulting in it being a uniquely identifiable feature of Holland’s compositional style. By its very definition counterpoint suits Holland’s aesthetic ideals of space and rhythmic interest and this, combined with his expert craftsmanship elevates it to being clearly one of his more important compositional devices.