Transparency is a name I’ve adopted for a method of coordinating multidirectional associations among melodies & rhythms.

In terms of compositional design, a transparency approach could be applied like this. A contrasting countermelody is superimposed upon a single initial line. Then, a 3rd melody might be organized in relation to the 2nd, but without a direct association with the first; & this can be continued on to a 4th, a 5th, etc.. Each line may carry distinctly different tonal & rhythmic connotations.

A key coordinating device among the intersecting lines is occasions of melodic & rhythmic unison. These function not only as common points of interconnection, but as crossroads or quantum occasions from which a multiplicity of developments are able to diverge..

What this can offer an improviser, as well as an improvising ensemble, is an expanded palette of coherently interconnected but potentially radically disparate options.

Parts of 2 compositions that use transparencies will be available to work with: Permeations Gumvindaboloo & Circumspect. Charts will be available to download before the session. Or contact me at ideakitchenmusicmusic@gmail.com.

- patrick brennan