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Undergraduate Research at UMass Dartmouth
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had to compile the other pieces for the group, which
included three more original compositions (each
written by separate members of the group and two
covers). During this process, I also thought about how
the pieces should be arranged, according to both my
tastes and the tastes of my fellow musicians.
After these preliminary stages, I began to figure out
the details for booking the space. I decided to use
the main auditorium as I felt it would be an appropriate
venue for the musicians I had chosen. In this
stage I also started to work on assembling promotional
materials, which included designing a poster,
as well as contacting various promotional outlets
(for both inside and outside of the school). During
the process, I came across the OUR grant opportunities,
and decided to apply. I was lucky enough to
be awarded a generous amount that helped support
part of the recital and the research that went into
the making of this music.
The next item on the agenda was organizing two
rehearsals. Due to the busy schedules of the chosen
musicians, I booked two rehearsals in October, well
in advance. The first rehearsal was an interesting
experience; it was my first time directing a group
like that. It was especially strange having to give
directions to Professor Robitaille and Sean, due to
their reputations and stature as musicians. In the
second rehearsal I was able to better ascertain my
bearings and give more clear instructions. It was a
great experience, as I learned to examine the group
sound, and make sure that people were playing their
parts. It was also interesting to experiment with
different ensemble textures, which I felt needed to
be worked in, making sure that pieces had a certain
flow to them. If this were a more regularly working
group, these sorts of textures and dynamics would
not need to be said, as they could be formed spontaneously.
However, due to time constraints it was the
most logical choice.
The day of the concert was very gratifying. Playing with
musicians of this caliber is not only exciting, but also
educational. There is also a level of comfort and trust;
and this gives an amazing feeling. Indeed, this is part of
the beauty of this kind of art form. Jazz is a communal
experience, and the relationships one has with other
musicians has an impact on one’s own musical style.
When there is a deep connection between musicians, it
can be felt in the way they play together.
Another interesting facet of this performance was
the extent to which the results were different from
my own personal expectations. Many of the solos
took on different directions than what I had anticipated.
I really enjoyed this aspect of the project, as
it is those unexpected turns that bring about some
of the most powerful moments in improvising. Of
course, sometimes these risks don’t pay off, but they
have to be done as part of the process. The thrill of
improvising when everything comes together makes
the process worth the risk of things not working out.
This performance was positively received by both
my peers and mentors, which I greatly appreciate.
My greatest achievement was that I inspired some of
the younger musician peers at the University to work