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Types of Jazz Music

Types of Jazz Music

By Billy Merrak

There are different types of jazz music, each with their own origin and style. Jazz music is distinctly different from any other types of music and can be recognized world wide as having a uniquely American flair to it. Jazz had its beginnings in the United States but is now considered to have a fine mixture of African culture thrown in with it. There are four distinct parts to jazz music that include rhythm, harmony, melody, and tonal qualities. No matter what type of jazz that you enjoy you'll be able to find a club that caters to your tastes. There are many experimental jazz venues that are popping up all over the place, including many European cities where all types of music are welcomed and appreciated.

One jazz style is called the Work Song. It is upbeat and rhythmically fast because it was used to make the work day go by faster. The Work Song is repeated over and over and isn't considered a modern form. This jazz tends to be associated with African American music. It's probably the rhythmic beat that makes it the least popular jazz style today.

New Orleans jazz began in the early 1890's. It started out with brass band performances highlighting marching and gospel songs. One of the most famous names from this period was William Basie. He became famous with his band, the Count Basie Orchestra. His music is still listened to and loved 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.

World War II came and went transforming jazz yet again. This era is when Bebop was born. Bebop fuses fast tempo with changing rhythmic patterns and makes a softer, lighter sound. Bebop will often focus on a solo performer instead of the whole 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.