SEARCH AND REFLECT
by JOHN STEVENS

CONTENTS


1. FOREWORD by Christopher Small

2. INTRODUCTION
It is advisable to read this before trying pieces in this section

3. PRELIMINARIES

4. FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTS OF MUSIC

5. ONE TWO
An exploration of the fundamental rhythmic unit *L

6. ONE TWO THREE (FOUR)
Further developments toward fundamental rhythmic understanding

7. MIXED DOUBLES
Extends the previous pieces to instruments in a rhythmic group interaction

8. FLOWER
Develops creative ornamentation towards free group interaction

9. MICROTONES
Explores fine degrees of pitch and broadens aural perception *L

10. COLOUR
investigates individual taste in sound

11. RHYTHM TREE
A rhythmic map 'L

12. ALL PURPOSE
A notated musical practice of the Rhythm Tree 'M

13. NUMBERS
Develops independence within specific rhythmic cycles

14. ODDSEVEN
Explores the harmonic possibilities of a scale within a rhythmic framework

15. ONE TWO ONE THREE
An expanded version of 'Oddseven' using a chromatic scale

16. DOODEE
A rhythmelodic motif which develops toward a collective energy explosion

*L: requires workshop leader

'M: includes notated music

 

IMPROVISATION SECTION

 

17. INTRODUCTION
Includes three preparatory exercises: 'Scribbling', 'Free Space' and 'Mouth Piece'

18. CLICK PIECE
Uses only the shortest, most concise sounds

19. SUSTAIN
Uses breath length to determine longest individual sounds

20. HAPPY BIRTHDAY
As 'Sustain', but using a specific melody or motif

21. 2 ALBERT
A musical or verbal stream of consciousness applied to 'Sustain'

22. SEARCH & REFLECT
A progression of exercises to heighten aural awareness and reflective interaction *L

23. TRIANGLE
A trio discipline incorporating 'scribbling' in a free group interaction

24. FACE TO FACE
Similar to 'Triangle' but performed by a duo

25. COMPOSE
Uses compositional invention collectively

26. SILENCE
Endeavours to confront the lack of silence within a free group context

27. DOT PIECE
Similar to 'Silence', using only clicks

28. GHOST
Explores the individual accompanied by the collective

29. CREATIVE INDIVIDUAL PRACTICE METHOD

30. FEATHER FLOCK
Develops from minimal material to collective music making 'L

31. BIRD
A rhythmelodic phrase which is expanded independently and improvisationally *L/M

32. D
Combines speed, energy and rhythm with spontaneous solo awareness *M

33. BECKETT (SAM)
Uses breath as 'Sustain', but toward minimal improvisation

34. APPENDIX
Adaptation of some of the pieces for other creative activities

35. HUMBLE SEAMEN HAYES
A notated musical score *M
Consists of four large GIF images, for printing out.