Ya Like Jazz? But What Is It?

Learning Objectives

Understand the unique qualities that define jazz.
Appreciate the significance of individual exprestion in jazz performance.
Describe the commonly used instruments in jazz music.
Explain which instruments are used in the rhythm section and their roles.
Identify the basic elements of music.

Jazz is a forn of art that places importance on individual expression. Jazz is American music that originated from the social conditions that existed in the southern United States, where musicians first began combining the oral traditions of African music and the literal traditions of Western European music. Jazz is now studied and cultivated worldwide. Establishing a definitive set of criteria for jazz would be almost impossible. However, we can identify certain qualities that are shared by most jazz music.

typical jazz instruments and their names

Basic Guidelines for Defining Jazz

Improvisation - Composing and performing simultaneously is a defining aspect in the performance of almost all jazz.
Rhythm - Swing and syncopation are typically used terms.
Dissonance - Non-harmonious and dissonant tonalities are often incorporated by jazz musicians.
Jazz Interpretation - Technical devices such as slurs, bends, and muting are often part of how jazz musicians produce music.
Interaction - Similar to a discussion panel with multiple speakers, a jazz ensemble interacts with each member responding in turn.

The peak of individual expression in a jazz performance is displayed in the improvised solo. Jazz improvisation centers on distinct and personal expressions, with historically renowned performers distinguished by the strength of their personal expression. In jazz, emphasis lies more on the performer than the composer. Each performance of a song will sound unique through the performers' personal innovation. Jazz musicians employ syncopation, rhythmic diversity, varying degrees of dissonance, and effects in their solos to craft a distinct and personal sound.

In the jazz band, the rhythm section made up of a bass, drums, and piano or guitar, all have a designated role to play. Yet, within these defined roles they also have a vast amount of space as to what they specifically play. During a solo, the role of the rhythm section is to provide interactive support for the soloist. The pianist or guitarist plays the chords that accompany the melody of the song. The bassist provides foundational support for the chords and maintains a steady beat.

One of the most commonly used wind instruments in jazz includes the saxophone. There are multiple types of saxophones including the soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophone. Often, these musicians will "double up" and play clarinet or flute as well for specific parts of an arrangement. The final set of instruments commonly used in jazz are the trumpet, flugel horn, cornet, and trombone. Other instruments that are not as commonly found in jazz are the violin, harmonica, banjo, and tuba.

When describing music, there are three basic elements that make up any form of music. They include melody, harmony, and rhythm. A melody is a sequence of notes that is played or sung in a specific order and rhythm. Harmony is the set of chords. Chords are three or more notes played at the same time. Rhythm is the relationship of notes and sound with time. Typically, rhythm is measured in beats.

Assessment

The most remembered performers in jazz history were best known for what?

When jazz musicians incorporate non-harmonious tonalities, what is that called?

In the jazz band which instrument has the role of providing a foundation for the chords and keeping a steady beat?

Which of the following is NOT a common instrument used in jazz?

How is rhythm usually measured?