Creating Space Where Music can Happen

Methods for Composing for Improvisers

Abstract

This article examines the role of pre-composed musical material as the basis of a band’s output, from the perspective of composer-bandleaders who direct ensembles of improvising musicians. The article proposes five distinct methods by which composer-bandleaders can navigate the ‘space’ of their band’s output and musical direction. The categories are described originally as follows: Setting a Mood, Call to Arms, Bookend, Elements in Free, Composition as Destination.  These proposed methods -— or approaches -— are discovered through the analysis of existing recorded materials and reflection on practice.