Tradition and innovation in the drumming of Airto Moreira: a portfolio of recorded performances and exegesis

Abstract

This project explores the relationship between traditional Brazilian rhythms and the more contemporary, innovative playing style developed by percussionist/drummer, Airto Moreira (b.1941). The submission for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Music Performance investigates how traditional rhythms, and to a lesser extent, influences from outside Brazil, have shaped Airto’s contribution to the development of Brazilian influenced jazz-fusion in the United States in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The research addresses how aspects of Airto’s style can be successfully assimilated through transcription, analysis and performance. It focuses on the two main areas of every drummer’s musical vocabulary – time functioning and solo material and presents relevant case studies from two recorded recitals. The first recital features traditional Brazilian songs along with compositions from Airto’s recording career. The second recital explores a more contemporary approach to samba. Each recital demonstrates the application of aspects of Airto’s style and innovative approach. The dissertation comprises CD recordings of two 60-minute public recitals and a 7,500 word exegesis.