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The Wonderful World of Jazz

By: Billy Merrak

There world of jazz music is full of different styles, each with their own style and origin. Jazz music, a distinctly American invention, is different from any other types of music. Although the roots of jazz begin in United States, it is now considered to have a fine mixture of African culture enmeshed in it. The four distinct components of jazz music are rhythm, harmony, melody, and tonal qualities. Regardless of your preference for the type jazz, you'll be able to find a club that caters to your tastes. experimental jazz is one of the more popular styles, with venues popping up all over the world, including many European cities.

The Work Song is one style of jazz that is an interesting style of jazz. Work songs are typically upbeat and rhythmically fast - they are used make the work day pass by quicker. The Work Song uses a rhythmic style that is repeated over and over and is seldom heard these days. The work song is sometimes associated with African American music -- this rhythmic beat that has become the least popular of jazz styles 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.

The Chicago Style of jazz started in the late 1917's. Chicago, known as one of the premiere jazz locations in the country, drew many musicians from southern states as the prohibition forced people to move north looking for new jobs and places where they could play this new type of jazz. During this period, piano was added to the background of jazz music, creating an entirely new sound known as Chicago Style jazz.

Following World War II, jazz went through another transformation with the introduction of Bebop. Bebop, a fusion of fast tempo and changing rhythmic patterns, creates a softer and lighter sound of jazz. Bebop often highlights a solo performer instead of 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.

Article Source: http://www.azine.info

Billy Merrick is the chief editor for Real Info on Jazz, the web's premier resource for information about Jazz. For more articles on Jazz visit: www.rijazz.com/articles
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