An Exploration of the Various Compositional Approaches to Modern Progressive Metal

Progressive metal is a genre that has developed since it began in the mid 1980s, with various artists demonstrating different approaches to its composition. This thesis will explore these approaches, through detailed analysis alongside a portfolio of music which demonstrates an understanding of the diversity of the genre, while exploring the possibilities of development in new and interesting ways. The portfolio aims to channel various influences, culminating with a final piece that pushes the boundaries of the genre. The thesis will feature analytical overviews of the genre’s development, with particular focus on the artists that influenced my work. This will be followed by outlines of the methodology and analysis used to conduct this research.