Abstract

The main purpose of the conference held by Prof. Eric Ineke (Royal Conservatory at The Hague) at Escola Superior de Música de Lisboa in November 5th, 2019, was to discuss and share material on the impact of drummer Mel Lewis (1929-1990) in the context of the history of jazz.
According to Prof. Ineke: “his contribution to the music was the fact that he was able to create a small combo feel within the context of a big band. There was always interaction with the solists and the rhythm section, like a small combo, which was not common before in big bands like Count Basie, Woody Herman and Duke Ellington’’.

Keywords: Mel Lewis, drums, swing, big band, jazz

Abstract

The original lullaby melody from Brazilian folk repertoire is the unifying element that brings the development of the piece and its form together, from the first introduction of a fragment, to the climax, where it is finally played in its entirety. This article analyzes some of the compositional elements that were used in Lullaby #4, such as modal harmonies, pan-diatonic voicing textures, polychords, polyrhythmic structures, metric-modulations, jazz, pop, and Latin rhythmic influences, as well as odd meter treatments of traditional rhythms, cross-sectional and layered orchestrations, while also discussing featuring two improvised solos by members of the ensemble. The different elements of the piece are analyzed as they happen in real time, in order to match the video performance, and illustrate the piece’s organic development. Specific performance and conducting elements are also addressed as part of, as well as influencing the overall performance outcome.

 Keywords: Lullaby#4, big band, large ensemble, brazilian jazz