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.
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.
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.
Jazz is an ever changing type of music that always retains some formation of its roots. Jazz is one style of music that has changed according to different times and the different outlook of the people listening to it. The flexibility of jazz to adapt to these different times and needs is one of the big reasons it is alive and so popular today.
