The Aesthetic Characteristics of Hard Bop Drumming : Focused Analysis of Art Blakey’s Performances in 〈Kozo’s Waltz〉 and 〈Free for All〉

This study aims to examine the aesthetic structure of hard bop drumming, with a focus on analyzing the drumming characteristics of Art Blakey through representative performances such as <Kozo’s Waltz> and <Free for All>. Art Blakey played a pivotal role in the formation and consolidation of the hard bop style, and his drumming is regarded as a model of rhythmic leadership that organizes the flow and narrative of music, transcending the mere function of timekeeping. The research combines literature review and direct transcription-based analysis, specifically focusing on the distinct performance sections of the two tracks to interpret Blakey's drumming traits. In <Kozo’s Waltz>, the analysis concentrates on the use of rudimental techniques and density control in the latter half of the drum solo (bars 32-56). In <Free for All>, the study highlights the drummer's ride cymbal pattern construction and the interaction within the ensemble during the head section development. Through this analysis, the study provides a structural overview of the formal principles and aesthetic elements of hard bop drumming, along with the multidimensional roles that drummers play within the musical structure. The significance of this research lies in its expansion of the interpretative possibilities of jazz drumming and the understanding of the drummer's role as an expressive agent in performance.