In his doctoral trajectory, pianist Piergiorgio Pirro pursued an investigation into the application of techniques derived from early French spectral music to the co-creative dynamics of the small jazz ensemble. Involving fourteen musicians and three jazz bands, his artistic research project combined practice-based exploration and theoretical reflection.
The introduction of models and paradigms drawn from spectralism into the workings of the small jazz ensemble illuminated a complex network of factors at play, leading to a thorough reconfiguration in which new instruments are built and played, old habits must be unlearned, uncommon interactions emerge, and theoretical frameworks clash in practice.
Beyond an account of artistic possibilities and technical/cognitive limitations, the study sheds light on cultural dynamics that are deeply ingrained in the collective music-making of jazz performers.
Academic supervisor: Maarten Stragier
Artistic supervisor: Michelino Bisceglia
