Thomas Robb’s PhD research investigates the work of Tyshawn Sorey, an American multi-instrumentalist, composer, improviser, academic, and Pulitzer Prize recipient, whose music erodes conventional notions of improvisation and composition. Through observation of Sorey’s multifaceted musical approach, Robb’s research aims to uncover new tools and frameworks for approaching improvisation and composition.

Robb’s three previous recitals presented creative output at the early and middle stages of his research. This final recital will showcase a selection of original works created during the late stages of research.

The program will include Prochinus, a semi-composed trio piece which utilises many of the improvisatory tools uncovered throughout the research, and For Solo Drums, an exploration of complex rhythmical vocabulary and experimental sound production which was inspired by Sorey’s composition Ornations (2014).