Examining the connections between selected North American and South African jazz pianists within the jazz piano trio setting

Abstract

The connection between North American and South African jazz has been made clear through previous research, but there is insufficient proof of what exact North American pianistic elements are present in the playing of South African jazz pianists. Having an interest in this connection, I realised that I would have to apply certain data collection methods to obtain a deeper understanding of this connection. This led me to my research topic and the main aim of this study: To what extent can transcription, analysis and interviews be used to identify the exact pianistic elements present in the playing of selected North American and South African jazz pianists, within the jazz piano trio setting? After applying the above-mentioned methods, I found that they do present adequate results and that they can be helpful in determining and understanding any theoretical connections that are present in music. My research not only allows musicians to incorporate the techniques and elements utilised by the selected pianists into their own playing, but it also provides them with practical methods that can be used to develop their musicianship. My research allows for further investigation into the different approaches to transcription, styles of analysis and the various possibilities of presenting one’s findings. My research also provides motivation for future research possibilities regarding the connections between North American and South African jazz pianists and the connections within the trio format.