In the 2-year research project “Quantum Leaps”, a working group of the Institute for Jazz and Improvised Music (JIM) at the Anton Bruckner Private University, Linz, underpinned the thesis that artistic development in (European) jazz does not take place steadily, not in a continuous growth towards an “ever more” (e.g. in rhythmic complexity, melodic sophistication, harmonic density, improvisational freedom, etc.), but rather in quantum leaps (in that seemingly out of “nothing” new stages of development are reached). (e.g. in rhythmic complexity, melodic sophistication, harmonic density, improvisational freedom, etc.), but rather in quantum leaps (by reaching new levels of development seemingly out of “nothing”).
At its 47th symposium with the theme “Jazz in the European Media – Historical Observations and Current Currents”, the working group “Radio Jazz Research” is examining the interaction between jazz and broadcasting (radio and television) on several levels. Firstly, it deals with technological innovations that have shaped both developments from their beginnings in the first decades of the last century to the present. Secondly, the jazz and media researchers of the international working group will analyse the attempts of jazz propagandists in different regions of Europe to win new target groups for jazz, or to use jazz during the Cold War as a means in the system competition between East and West. The conference will also examine current trends and compare linear and non-linear jazz radio formats from various European countries.
As a fitting evening programme to these guest events, two concerts will take place: Roberto Magris – EUROPLANE FOR JAZZ and The UPPER AUSTRIAN JAZZ ORCHESTRA, both world premieres – ORF / Ö1 recording planned.
