Microtonality in Jazz

Jazz is widely recognized as one of the most inclusive and globally connected art forms. Its sound world is shaped by improvisation, flexibility, and openness to diverse influences. Yet despite its history of incorporating elements from many cultures, microtones – intervals between the notes of the piano – have rarely been studied systematically in a jazz context.

This project seeks to expand the tonal possibilities of jazz by exploring microtonality in dialogue with contemporary music and with musical traditions from around the world. Through new compositions, international collaborations, ensemble work, and art-theoretical considerations, the project investigates how alternative tuning systems can enrich jazz improvisation and composition, and how they connect jazz to broader global soundscapes.

A particular focus lies on audience perception: large-scale studies will examine how listeners from different cultural backgrounds experience microtonal sounds in jazz. By combining artistic practice, theoretical reflection, and perception research, the project develops new insights into how microtonality shapes expression, communication, and intercultural exchange in jazz.

The aim is not to reinvent jazz, but to highlight and expand dimensions that resonate across traditions. In doing so, the project demonstrates how microtonality can strengthen jazz as a living practice of cultural dialogue and artistic innovation.

The project is funded by the Austrian Science Fund (Programme for Arts-based Research).

Core Team: Lars Seniuk, MMus, Dr.in Julia Meer, Philipp Gerschlauer, MMus, Lucia Forster, BA Further information: https://www.fwf.ac.at/forschungsradar/10.55776/AR830 

Grant DOI: 10.55776/AR830

Contact: l.seniuk@muk.ac.at, p.gerschlauer@muk.ac.at, j.meer@muk.ac.at, l.forster@muk.ac.at