Cross-Cultural Fusion in Contemporary Saxophone Music: A Study of Middle Eastern-Arabic Elements in Jean Denis Michat's 'Shams'

Abstract

This dissertation examines the cross-cultural fusion in contemporary saxophone music, focusing on the integration of Middle Eastern-Arabic musical elements in Jean Denis Michat's "Shams". Through analysis of scores, historical documents, and performance practices, this study investigates how Middle Eastern-Arabic musical elements are incorporated into contemporary saxophone compositions and explores the specific extended techniques employed to achieve this cultural fusion, Including the following research objectives: First, to identify and interpret the "SHAMS" and the other three selected works, the Middle Eastern-Arabic and Western music integrated composition. Second, to analyze techniques of the saxophone performance and to compare the similarity and difference of "SHAMS". This qualitative research examines the adaptation of Middle Eastern-Arabic musical elements through analysis of microtone and maqam writing, rhythmic structures, and extended techniques in contemporary saxophone works. The study establishes a framework for cross-cultural fusion while providing performance guidelines for composers and performers engaged in such synthesis.