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" Smooth Point: "
Valdez, David
Gailey, Daniel
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Latin Dissertation
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| Language of Document
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English
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| Record Number
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1105961
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| Doc. No
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TLpq2352990605
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| Main Entry
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Gailey, Daniel
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Valdez, David
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| Title & Author
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Smooth Point:\ Valdez, DavidGailey, Daniel
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| College
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University of Kansas
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| Date
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2019
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| student score
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2019
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| Degree
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M.M.
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| Page No
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42
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| Abstract
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Smooth Point is an electro-acoustic chamber suite for woodwinds and rhythm section inspired by the theories of composer/philosopher Dane Rudyar, and also by the work of esoteric author Israel Regardie. The piece was written to assist in the musical meditative practice known as the Vibratory Exercise of the Middle Pillar. The piece can also be utilized by all levels of musicians as an advanced ear-training exercise, with the goal of helping to develop better pitch. The composition begins with a calm atmospheric introduction and a voice-over explaining the meditative/singing practice. There is a four half-note melody (E- C- F- C) that repeats over and over while the harmony constantly shifts and a wash of rhythm parts create interesting textures. Smooth Point is scored for oboe, trumpet, alto saxophone, bassoon, and tuba. The live wind parts are accompanied by a Logic track that features pre-recorded Indian percussion, bansuri (bamboo flute), bass clarinet, electric bass, and keyboard sub-bass tracks, as well as MIDI sampler instrumental tracks and drum loops. Wind parts are written in six-part harmony, utilizing modern jazz harmony and voicing techniques throughout. The rhythm tracks combine a range of different styles, including Afro-Cuban, electronic dance music, and traditional Japanese, African, and Indian classical styles. There is also a significant amount of improvisation that happens throughout the piece, in the pre-recorded bass clarinet, bansuri, keyboard tracks and also in a solo section that features the alto saxophone. The overall mood of the composition is relaxing and uplifting. This paper will explain the piece’s compositional process, structure, and harmonic framework, as well as describe its practical use as a musical and meditative exercise.
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| Subject
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Music theory
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Musical composition
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