Exposition

The percussive world of the saxophone (2025)

Sean Thompson
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About this exposition

This research investigates the acoustic potential of key clicks and key slaps on the saxophone, exploring their role in shaping texture, rhythmic drive, and overall musical expression. While these extended techniques are often used sparingly or as novelty effects, this study proposes a more integrated approach by treating them as core musical elements within a compositional framework. By combining key clicks with slap tongue and multiphonics, I explore how these sounds can function not merely as special effects, but as primary tools in my music. Drawing on both analytical and compositional processes, this project includes the development of an original solo saxophone work that blends these techniques in ways that are musically coherent and performatively engaging. A detailed analysis of how key clicks function acoustically serves as the basis for their structured use within the piece. This categorisation helps clarify the contexts in which these sounds are most effective, offering a practical framework for other performers and composers interested in incorporating the use of this technique. The outcomes of this research also provide a springboard for further exploration, especially in contexts that involve electronics and real-time sound manipulation. By grounding the study in acoustic experimentation and performative application, this research contributes to the broader discourse on extended techniques for saxophone and contemporary performance practice.
typeresearch exposition
keywordsExtended techniques, Key clicks, New music, Improvisation, Multiphonics
date24/09/2025
published24/09/2025
last modified24/09/2025
statuspublished
affiliationCodarts, University for the Arts
copyright(c) Sean Thompson
licenseAll rights reserved
languageEnglish
urlhttps://www.researchcatalogue.net/view/3884552/3884553
published inCodarts
portal issueCodarts Artistic Research Reports.
external linkwww.codarts.nl


Copyrights

nameSean Thompson - Artistic Research Report
copyright(c) Sean Thompson
licenseAll rights reserved
usagespdf

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