In this thesis, I have examined, analyzed and studied the interplay between the soloist and drummer in a jazz context.To understand it better I have chosen to study some of the masters in the history of jazz on this very subject. By analyzing legendary jazz drummers such as Elvin Jones, Tony Williams and Ari Hoenig, I have transcribed excerpts from recordings on which they are comping the soloist, and with that analyzed the topic of communication and interplay. Doing that I have gained a clearer picture of what these drummer’s concepts were, regarding the subject. With the conclusion that the vocabulary has moved further away from the idea of timekeeping. Instead, drummers developed the vocabulary to a more melodic and interactive way of playing.

It has also been important to choose the right music and musicians to explore different interaction techniques. Together we have questioned the drummer's role and his/her relationship to the role of accompaniment. Finally, I did a concert where these techniques were put to the test, to see if our learning method had evolved the way we interacted with each other.

In conclusion, what you can clearly see is that the concept of tension and release, dramatic dynamics and an open approach are consistently techniques of communication that all the drummers I have chosen to study have mastered. It is something rebellious and innovative that I have really taken a liking to, and look forward to explore further myself in the future.

This study could be interesting to the jazz musician wanting to learn more about the drummer’s role in a contemporary jazz context. Especially to the drummer wishing to develop their interplay.