| This study is a theoretical inquiry into the meaning potentials of rhythm in improvisation, with implications for improvisational music therapy. A review of music therapy literature regarding assessment and treatment reveals that improvisation is a widely applied music therapy method, but that rhythm---found universally in all forms of clinical improvisational processes---has received little attention. Theories from the areas of music philosophy, psychology of music, social psychology of music, musicological studies of jazz, and music therapy are explicated and implications for potential meanings of rhythm for improvisation and improvisational music therapy are described. Concepts that are foundational to the ways that the various theories find meaning in music include symbolism, metaphorical conceptualization, and interpersonal interactions. Theoretical foci for analysis include improvised rhythm (i.e., the rhythmic products), an improviser or co-improviser's processes while playing, and the perspective of a listener. Differences between solo improvisation and co-improvisation processes are considered. An integral theory of rhythm in improvisation is proposed along with clinical implications. Potential benefits of the study for music therapy and musicology are proposed and considerations for future investigations regarding the topics of rhythm and improvisation are articulated. |
