Abstract Jazz is described as a form of musical improvisation that combines both organization and spontaneity. It is the spontaneous improvisation that separates it from traditional Western music, which is written down in notation as carefully as possible, in order to make sure that it is performed as closely to the composer's intentions as possible. This paper provides a definition of jazz before exploring the origins of this musical genre. The paper examines what makes certain music be regarded as jazz and explores the influence of jazz on other music.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
The Origins of Jazz
What Makes it Jazz?
The Influence of Jazz
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper "Even though jazz is a rich mixture of melody, rhythm, harmony and inventive improvisation based on those basics, it has always not been treated with respect by music historians and other experts. For instance, in his book An Illustrated History of Music, the author does not even give jazz a mention. Marc Pincherle seems to have a bias toward traditional Western European styles of music, but Gerard (p. 12) states, "Music does not have to be totally predictable to be beautiful." Jazz may suffer because it is often not written down in notation, and because much of its history is recorded informally."
Tags: Jelly, Morton, blues, AABA, lead, sheet, tempo
