Crossing the lines: A portfolio of compositions exploring rhythmic dissonance and polyrhythmic textures

Rogers, Joshua 2025. Crossing the lines: A portfolio of compositions exploring rhythmic dissonance and polyrhythmic textures. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Rhythmic dissonance, the non-congruence of rhythmic layers, offers a rich area of exploration for composers. This doctoral research, titled Crossing The Lines: A Portfolio of Compositions Exploring Rhythmic Dissonance and Polyrhythmic Textures, aims to highlight the effectiveness of using rhythmic techniques to produce compelling musical textures. The thesis is in two parts: the portfolio of compositions (equating to c. ninety minutes of music) and a twenty-thousand-word commentary that critically assesses the compositional work and factors that have affected this research, supported by academic literature. The portfolio of compositions comprises nine pieces ranging in ensemble size from chamber to orchestral, enabling a broad exploration of rhythmic devices within the context of my compositional style. The commentary comprises four chapters. During the discovery of these compositional techniques, there arose a desire to categorise these techniques to fully understand the temporal impact each technique can have on a musical texture. Moreover, the juxtaposition of manipulating rhythmic techniques within a Western Classical notation system presented its own challenges and the need to produce a robust notational practice that can withstand both compositional intentions and notational clarity. Most importantly, the final chapter is an in-depth exploration of compositional development, focusing on Odyssey, and considers the overall effectiveness of rhythmic techniques and their ability to produce development over an extended timespan.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Music
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	17 March 2026
Last Modified:	17 Mar 2026 16:36
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/185802

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