Performance portfolio Neil Graham Yates

Yates, NG

Abstract

The overarching theme of the portfolio is creative performance between established genres. I
present here projects examining the artistic potential of a highly detailed level of genre
mixing. All explore the possibilities of amalgamating at least two disparate musical genres to
produce more than a mere juxtaposition. The aim is to originate a music that sounds complete
in and of itself by detailed study and practice in both genres. I have attempted to explain my
reasoning and methodology in this endeavour thoroughly.
The first example is the commercially available album, New Origins, exemplifying mixing of
jazz and traditional music from Ireland and Britain in a jazz octet setting, with the addition of
traditional instruments, bodhran and whistle.
Next is the commercially available album, Five Countries, demonstrating the mixing of jazz
and traditional music from Ireland and Britain, as well as some influences from a slightly
broader European palette, in a small folk trio style setting employing traditional and acoustic
instruments as the backdrop to intricate melodies and improvisations on trumpet and
flugelhorn.
There is then video footage presented of the premiere performance of Five Countries at
Manchester Jazz Festival 2008, and further footage from performances at London Jazz
Festival 2011 and Brecon Jazz Festival 2012.
The the last example is video footage of a live performance of music from the album
Catching Sunlight at Kings Place in London. The suite mixes classical saxophone quartet with
a jazz trio and improvising solo trumpet and flugelhorn.
Other evidence highlights how the main examples have generated reviews, articles,
performances at numerous festivals and venues, radio play, internet interest, and numerous
commissions and awards from funding bodies and major festivals. The new techniques
developed for trumpet are illustrated and some other similar musical endeavours are archived
alongside a selected history of my professional career.

Citation

Yates, N. Performance portfolio Neil Graham Yates. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Aug 4, 2021
• Award Date: Nov 1, 2012