Abstract
This artistic research explores drumming as a practice in which cyclical motion, subtle variation, and gradual transformation converge into an ongoing rhythmic flow, inviting musical experience to shift from progression toward immersion within what is ongoing. The study asks how a drummer can create and cultivate such long-aesthetic rhythmic continuity within open-ended improvisational contexts, both practically and conceptually.
This artistic research explores drumming as a practice in which cyclical motion, subtle variation, and gradual transformation converge into an ongoing rhythmic flow, inviting musical experience to shift from progression toward immersion within what is ongoing. The study asks how a drummer can create and cultivate such long-aesthetic rhythmic continuity within open-ended improvisational contexts, both practically and conceptually.
The research draws on Finnish folk music’s pitkä estetiikka (long aesthetic), minimalist music, flow theory, and improvisation literature, and adopts an artistic research methodology in which drumming practice constitutes the primary site of inquiry. Insights are synthesised from personal practice, group rehearsals, performances, and audiovisual documentation produced between 2024 and 2025 in duo and trio improvisational settings, analysed through reflective practice and retrospective video analysis.
The findings identify strategies for sustaining rhythmic continuity grounded in bodily and technical ease, held in balance with the uncertainties of improvisation. Central elements include deeply embodied ostinati, dynamic and timbral sensitivity, mindful approaches to change, and a principle of sustainability in musical ideas. In group improvisation, a slower pace of interaction, a non-reactive performance stance, and an open, undemanding listening orientation supported ongoing engagement and a spatial quality of the music. The research suggests that sustained, uneventful musicking may foster flow-like states and contribute to a broader slowing down of attention and pace, highlighting the potential of slow, continuous improvisation as a meaningful artistic and pedagogical practice.
A bachelor’s concert was given on 13 May 2025 in Black Box at Musiikkitalo, Helsinki, Finland.
Uneventful Space Music
Teea Aarnio, electro-acoustic vocals
Juho Tuomainen, electric guitar
Markus Snellman, drums
An intrigued reader-listener is encouraged to click the video to play and open the PDF file of the written work below.
