Types of Jazz Music
by Billy Merrick
http://www.rijazz.com
Jazz consists of many different styles, each having its own
origin and flavor. Jazz is not like any other music and is
recognized all over the world for its American roots. It is
a truly unique form that began in the United States. These
days you will here the African influence as well. The four
distinct parts of jazz music are rhythm, harmony, melody and
tonal qualities. Whatever your preferences, you'll find
clubs to hear your favorites. More and more experimental
venues are opening, including those in Europe. All types of
music are enjoyed and welcomed on the Continent.
One style of jazz is known as the Work Song. This type of
jazz is upbeat and rhythmically fast since it was often
used to make the work day pass by quicker. The Work Song
is repeated over and over in a rhythmic style that is not
often heard these days. This type of jazz is often
associated with African American music perhaps because of
this rhythmic beat that has become the least popular of
jazz styles today.
New Orleans is another style of Jazz that had its
beginnings in the early 1890~s. It began as brass band
performances that highlighted marching songs and gospel
songs. One of the most popular jazz names from this time
is the famous bandleader, William Basie, who would become
well known with his band as the Count Basie Orchestra.
This type of jazz is still popular today.
Another type of jazz style is the Chicago Style of jazz
that began in the late 1917~s. Chicago was known as the
jazz location of the country since musicians that were
leaving the southern states due to the prohibition were
moving north looking for new jobs and places where they
could play this new type of jazz. It was at this time that
the piano was added to the background sound of jazz,
creating an entirely new sound that became known as Chicago
Style jazz.
After World War II jazz went through another transformation
and Bebop was born. Bebop is a fusion of fast tempo and
changing rhythmic patterns that creates a softer and
lighter sound of jazz. Bebop often focuses on a solo
performer rather than on an entire band.
As you can see, jazz is always changing, yet retains part of
its original formation at it roots. Jazz is a musical style
that changes with the times and the various outlooks of its
listeners. One reason that jazz remains popular and alive is
its ability to adapt to the world it lives in.
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