Russell Lydian chromatic (again)
George Russell’s Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization
The Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization, developed by George Russell, is a groundbreaking theoretical framework that has had a profound impact on the world of music, particularly in the realm of modal jazz. This article explores the key aspects of Russell’s concept, including its derivation from the Lydian mode, the construction of the Lydian chromatic scale, the concept of tonal gravity, and its influential role in shaping musical compositions.
Deriving Lydian
Russell’s concept is rooted in the belief that dominant function serves as the driving force behind all harmonic motion. To explore this idea, he focused on the Lydian mode due to its unique properties that can be built with fifths. For instance, to construct a C Lydian scale, one can list the first seven tones on the circle of fifths starting with C, resulting in the sequence C, G, D, A, E, B, F♯.
The Lydian Chromatic Scale
Building upon the Lydian mode, Russell devised a prototype chromatic scale by stacking fifths and skipping the interval between the seventh and eighth tones. The skipped tone is then placed at the end of the scale, possessing the lowest level of tonal gravity. Taking C as the Lydian Tonic, the resulting 12-note scale with enharmonic respellings is as follows: C, G, D, A, E, B, F♯, G♯, E♭ (D♯), B♭ (A♯), F (E♯), D♭ (C♯).
Tonal Gravity
Central to Russell’s concept is the notion of tonal gravity. He posited that tonal gravity emanates from the first seven tones of the Lydian mode. As the player ventures further from the Lydian tonic, the tonal gravity shifts, indicating a change in the tonal center. Notes located higher up on the circle of fifths may signify a shift in tonal gravity, allowing for dynamic and expressive harmonic possibilities.
Influence
George Russell’s Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization has had a significant impact on the world of music, particularly in the realm of modal jazz. Pioneering artists such as Miles Davis and John Coltrane embraced Russell’s theory, utilizing it in their recordings of modal jazz compositions. Today, many conservatoires and music institutions teach Russell’s concept to varying degrees, recognizing its value in expanding harmonic language and fostering creative exploration in composition and improvisation.
Sources:
- Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization. (2021, September 18). In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lydian_Chromatic_Concept_of_Tonal_Organization
- George Russell’s Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.georgerussell.com/lc.html
- Lydian Chromatic Concept – TJPS. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.thejazzpianosite.com/jazz-piano-lessons/modern-jazz-theory/lydian-chromatic-concept/
FAQs
What is the Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization?
The Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization is a theoretical framework developed by George Russell. It introduces a new approach to understanding and organizing tonal relationships in music, focusing on the Lydian mode as a foundation.
How is the Lydian mode derived in Russell’s concept?
In Russell’s concept, the Lydian mode is derived by listing the first seven tones on the circle of fifths starting with the tonic note. For example, to construct a C Lydian scale, one would follow the sequence C, G, D, A, E, B, F♯.
What is the significance of the Lydian chromatic scale in Russell’s concept?
Russell builds a prototype chromatic scale by stacking fifths and skipping the interval between the seventh and eighth tones. This results in a 12-note scale with enharmonic respellings, where the Lydian Tonic serves as the starting point. The Lydian chromatic scale provides a harmonic palette for exploring tonal relationships and creating musical compositions.
What is meant by tonal gravity in the Lydian Chromatic Concept?
Tonal gravity, a central concept in Russell’s theory, refers to the perceived pull or attraction of certain tones towards a tonal center. In the Lydian mode, the first seven tones exert the strongest tonal gravity, while notes further up the circle of fifths indicate a shift in tonal gravity and potential modulation.
How has the Lydian Chromatic Concept influenced music?
The Lydian Chromatic Concept has had a significant impact, particularly in the realm of modal jazz. Influential artists like Miles Davis and John Coltrane embraced Russell’s theory, using it as a foundation for their recordings of modal jazz compositions. The concept continues to be taught in music education institutions, inspiring musicians to explore new harmonic possibilities.