Pynchon & Jazz

[vze422fs at verizon.net]

on 2/20/03 11:27 AM, Cyrus at cyrusgeo at netscape.net wrote:

> 
> 
> prozak at anus.com wrote:
> 
>> Interesting interpretation, although it seems to me that Western
>> classical music is predominantly melodic, although it insists on
>> defined harmonic structures (much like Western poetry of the older
>> types).
>> 
> 
> That's the key point, as you write yourself above: "it insists on
> defined harmonic structures". Harmony is always present, and when it is
> not, it is implied. Even in works composed for single instruments
> (Bach's "Suites for Violoncello Solo" are a perfect example, plus being
> extremely beautiful) the harmony is strongly implied by the movement of
> the melody, which is a definite requirement in order for the melody to
> make sense to the ear. In Eastern music there is no such need, because
> in most cases "harmony" simply isn't there at all. The requirement in
> this case is to stay within the scale of a particular mode. Changing
> modes within a piece is achieved easily through characteristic melodic
> passages, usually peculiar to a specific mode. This is not to say, of
> course, that Western music is not melodic. On the contrary. But harmony
> defines all...
> 
> Oh, and I' ve found out (second-hand) that being a teacher to your own
> children is always a bad idea.
> 
> Cyrus
> 
> 
Getting off topic here again but.....

Melody can actually be implied by harmony. A listener can be tricked into
thinking that he is hearing suggested melodic motion or even notes that
aren't there at all. It's a neat trick and one that involves the physics of
sound and hearing as well as cultural expectations.

This may be an oddity in this context, but Keith Richards of all people is
really good at it. Listen to Jumping Jack Flash, Street Fighting Man, Monkey
Man, Rocks Off, Or All Down the Line. There's all kinds of stuff going on,
and some that really isn't. Even better, tune your guitar D-G-D-G-B-D lowest
to highest, and try it yourself.

Joe