A study in michael Brecker's improvisational and solo creation techniques and application from tenor saxophone to alto saxophone

Abstract

There are not a huge number of studies done on Michael Brecker. In this study, I have furthered the knowledge of his style, both melodically and rhythmically. I also have shown how his style can be successfully moved from tenor saxophone to alto saxophone. To do this, I have focused upon three solos: Impressions, Midnight Voyage, and Nothing Personal. I have focused upon melodic devices, such as the use of enclosures, diminished patterns, altered scales, pattern movements, pentatonic patterns, and inside and outside playing. Rhythmic patterns have also been looked at, such as playing with the rhythm section or against it, or stressing certain off-beats. Extended saxophone technique has also been included in the analysis, such as the use of false fingering, overtones, and overblowing. Implication of thematic paper: By looking at three different solos, I have discovered some similarities in all three solos that can show a general overview of his style as a whole. This will allow other people to see what Michael Brecker’s overall style is, such as the use of sequential patterns and superimpositions. I also have demonstrated how certain techniques can successfully be transferred from tenor sax to alto sax, allowing alto players access to some of Brecker’s ideas and techniques. For this, I have mainly focused upon Brecker’s use of extended technique.