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Jazz Improvisation: Its Origins And History

Jazz is a very popular genre of music as well as being an intrinsic part of the history of American music. Although some people believe that jazz had its origins in early twentieth century South America, there is no doubt that jazz really came into it’s own in the United States and was heavily influenced by African American blues music. The Blues were popular in the first half of the 20th century in the rural south and developed in cities such as New Orleans, St. Louis and Chicago.

The music that was called jazz was popular in many countries, including the United States. At the same time it quickly spread to many countries in Europe, and then to many parts of Asia, South America and Australia.

What makes jazz unique? Among other things the unique features of Jazz include ‘blue notes,” improvisation and syncopation. Jazz relies primarily on the spontaneous expression of the musicians - usually playing in small groups - and does not necessarily use a written score. The 1930s saw a rapid rise in the popularity of jazz. Although black musicians dominated the jazz scene, the 1930s saw an increase in the number of white jazz singers and players. But during this time jazz still remained true to its roots and to the African-American blues musicians who created it.

Jazz is a music of the world. It combines classical, popular and traditional American music with important strains of European and African musical traditions. Jazz is very technically sophisticated while still remaining spontaneous and improvisational. To really develop a good understanding and appreciation of jazz it is important to experience all aspects of the music, listen to the masters and join other musicians in playing. Jazz is truly a group experience.

The process of “putting yourself into the music” via improvising is essential to jazz. This ability must be acquired, and it is best learned while performing with other quality players. Quite often, you can make advances with peers by playing together in a “combo”. Unlike other types of music, the interplay of the individual instruments is the heart and soul of jazz.

Obviously it is better for a musician learning how to improvise to begin with simple songs. Learn some basic techniques by experimenting, listening to other musicians, or taking a few lessons. Then apply those simple techniques in a more advanced way to more complicated songs. But remember, as a jazz musician it is not as much about technique as it is about self-expression.

Playing the notes of the song with a little alteration here and there is an important way to begin learning the basic techniques of jazz improvisation. This applies whether you are learning the jazz guitar, piano, trumpet, violin, saxophone, or any of a hundred other instruments used in jazz.

Immerse yourself in jazz music by listening to both contemporary and traditional jazz masters. There are also schools of musical instruction that specialize in teaching jazz, jazz improvisation, jazz soloing, and many other facets of the discipline. If you are serious about playing jazz music, one of these jazz schools might be the most direct way to get your career as a jazz musician going in the right direction.

One of the richest, most expressive and satisfying genres of music for the musician looking for creative expression is, without a doubt, jazz. It creates a magic which cannot be expressed in words. When people are really interested in actually listening to the music, jazz can be the most appropriate and entertaining type of music you can choose for almost any occasion. Being equally challenging and rewarding for the musician - what could be better than that!

jazz workshops - Music school in St Leonards, Sydney, Australia, specializing in jazz and improvised music. We offer private lessons on all jazz instruments, ensembles, school holiday workshops and masterclasses. Our teachers are among the best jazz educators in Australia.

- Howard Brule