Analysis of the Composition of Giant Steps from John Coltrane by Neo-Riemannian Theory

Abstract

Background and Aims: John Coltrane studied concepts of musical composition, including classical theories and innovative approaches to composition from the early 20th century. His exploration led to the development of a concept known as the Coltrane Changes. When analyzed through the lens of traditional music theory, it becomes apparent that this framework does not fully encompass the complexity of his ideas. The frequent modulation of key signatures, resulting from chord progressions based on third intervals, necessitates the use of more advanced theories, such as Neo-Riemannian theory, to provide a deeper understanding. The objectives of this study are as follows: 1. To analyze John Coltrane's compositional approach in Giant Steps using traditional music theory. 2. To analyze his compositional approach in Giant Steps through the lens of Neo-Riemannian theory. 3. To utilize the chordal relationships in Giant Steps, as explained through Neo-Riemannian theory, to construct a Parsimonious Tonnetz table. This approach provides a comprehensive perspective on Coltrane's innovative techniques, bridging classical and modern theoretical frameworks to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of his groundbreaking work.

Methodology: This research comprises musical compositions characterized by chord progressions that consistently move in major third intervals throughout the entire piece, utilizing the documentary research method. In addition to Giant Steps, other compositions employing this concept include Countdown, Satellite, and the B-section of Have You Met Miss Jones?. For this study, Giant Steps was selected as the representative piece. The tools employed for analysis include traditional music theory and Neo-Riemannian theory. This approach enables an in-depth examination of the harmonic and structural characteristics of compositions that utilize major third progressions, providing a comprehensive understanding of their theoretical foundations.

Results: An analysis of Giant Steps using traditional music theory reveals that the primary chords move up and down in major third intervals, with dominant chords added to approach the primary chords, as well as ii-V progressions leading to the primary chords. When analyzed using Neo-Riemannian theory, five types of chordal relationships are identified: 1. PRÌ 2. ÉRL 3. RPRÌ 4. ÉPRLÌ 5. ÉPRL These relationships were used to construct a Parsimonious Tonnetz table, offering a structured representation of the harmonic relationships within the piece.

Conclusion: An analysis of John Coltrane's compositional approach in Giant Steps through traditional music theory reveals the prominent use of the chromatic mediant concept. From a Neo-Riemannian perspective, five types of chordal relationships are identified: 1. PRÌ 2. ÉRL 3. RPRÌ 4. ÉPRLÌ 5. ÉPRL These relationships were subsequently utilized to construct a Parsimonious Tonnetz table, providing a deeper understanding of the harmonic structure in the piece.