Jazz Creation

What elements of music are emphasized in jazz singing according to John Szwed?

Tempo, volume, pitch, rhythm, timbre, breathing, and phrasing.

What are the two key aspects to listen for in jazz singing?

Musicianship and communication.

What is a conversational approach in jazz singing?

Adapting the rhythms of the song to the patterns of natural, everyday speech.

What is backphrasing in jazz singing?

Singing the lyric 'late' or 'early' in relation to the beat.

What is SCAT in jazz singing?

Wordless singing that uses syllables to create improvised melodies.

How do jazz singers improvise using text-based improvisation?

By singing the lyrics while changing the notes and rhythms of the original melody.

What does interaction with the accompaniment in jazz singing involve?

How well the arrangement connects with the singer and how well the singer connects with the arrangement.

What is the shape of a jazz performance often described as?

An arc.

What is the purpose of a verse in a jazz song?

To provide an extended introduction to the refrain or chorus.

What does a prologue in a jazz song provide?

Setting, character, mood, and motivation; it sets the stage and raises questions.

What is the significance of the phrase 'passing the baton' in jazz?

It refers to transitioning from one soloist to the next, allowing musicians' ideas to inspire one another.

What is a motif in the context of jazz music?

A recurring image or element in a work of art that is repeated, expanded, and developed throughout the piece.

How can motifs be utilized in jazz improvisation?

Motifs can appear in improvised solos, such as Oliver Nelson's solo on 'Stolen Moments'.

What is an obbligato in jazz?

A form of improvised counterpoint performed by a soloist, often to support or accompany a singer.

What does the term 'storytelling' refer to in music?

It refers to how soloists in a jazz performance can represent characters in a play, creating a narrative through their music.

What was the Bebop Revolution?

A movement in the mid-1940s where the first generation of bebop players sought more space for improvisation and expression.

What are some characteristics of bebop music?

Intricate melody lines, faster tempos, complex rhythms, and longer solos consisting of longer phrases.

Who were two prominent figures in the bebop movement?

Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie.

What is the significance of Charlie Parker in jazz history?

He demonstrated new ways of playing that influenced all instruments and is deeply connected to the roots of jazz.

What was Dizzy Gillespie's role in the bebop movement?

He was a trumpeter who explored similar ideas to Parker and adapted bebop to big band formats.

What did Tadd Dameron contribute to bebop?

He brought lyricism and beauty into the bebop genre.

What does the abrupt ending of a song signify in a musical context?

It can create an interesting and unexpected conclusion, leaving the listener surprised.

What does the term 'antiphony' refer to in jazz?

It refers to a call-and-response style where different musicians or groups alternate in playing.

How does the concept of 'storytelling' manifest in jazz performances?

Soloists can express narratives through their improvisations, making the music feel alive and relatable.

Who is considered the 'founder' of bebop?

Thelonious Monk

What are some characteristics of the pianist mentioned in the notes?

Deliberate, percussive attacker; 'free-floating' time; space and dissonance.

What is the significance of the compositions by the pianist mentioned?

Many have become jazz standards.

What did Mario Bauzá say about his music?

He emphasized that his music is Afro-Cuban Jazz, not Latin Jazz, highlighting the distinction between the two.

What significant event in Latin music occurred in 1930 in the US?

The breakthrough of Latin music with 'El Manisero' (the peanut vendor).

What is Afro-Cuban Jazz?

A fusion of African rhythms and Cuban melodies with jazz improvisation.

What is the clave in Afro-Cuban Jazz?

A two-bar rhythmic pattern that serves as the foundation of Afro-Cuban jazz.

Who incorporated West African roots into bebop music in the late 1940s?

Dizzy Gillespie.

What is the significance of the song "Manteca" (1947)?

It features shifts between 2-3 clave and straight-ahead 4/4 time with walking bass.

What instruments are commonly used in Afro-Cuban Jazz?

Bongos and conga drums.

What is Mambo in the context of Afro-Cuban Jazz?

A dance music evolved from big band Afro-Cuban jazz.

What is Bolero in relation to Afro-Cuban rhythms?

A ballad played over Afro-Cuban rhythm.

How have Latin music influences impacted jazz?

Latin songs have been incorporated into jazz repertoire, original jazz compositions written in Afro-Cuban style, and Latin percussion added to straight-ahead jazz recordings.

What is a notable example of a jazz standard transformed by Latin rhythms?

"Blue Train" by John Coltrane compared to Conrad Herwig's Latin version.

What is the significance of 'The Birth of the Cool' in jazz history?

It marks the emergence of cool jazz, which evolved from bebop in the late 1940s.

What are some characteristics of bebop?

Intricate melodies, long phrases, faster tempos, and complex rhythms.

How does cool jazz differ from bebop?

Cool jazz is less intense, with a relaxed and smooth sound, and less dynamic contrast.

What instrument was added to the jazz mainstream during the cool jazz era?

Flute.

What is 'West Coast jazz'?

A subgenre of cool jazz characterized by a laid-back style.

Name a key player in West Coast jazz.

Stan Getz, Gerry Mulligan, Dave Brubeck, or Paul Desmond.

What is a common theme in the student's notes regarding jazz?

The integration of Latin influences into jazz music.

What is the overall impact of Latin music on jazz as noted in the student's observations?

It is now common to hear Latin-influenced tunes in jazz CDs, gigs, and radio.

What is a characteristic feature of the piece 'Late Show' by Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers?

The piece uses silence and repetition to build tension, featuring solos from different instruments.

What is a notable aspect of the bass part in 'A Little Taste' by Cannonball Adderley?

It has a smooth and sweet bass line that supports the winds as they solo.

What are the main characteristics of Cool Jazz?

Intricate melodies, subtle rhythms, moderate dynamics, and relaxed, calm ensembles.

What defines Hard Bop as a jazz style?

It re-emphasizes the African-American aesthetic with strong rhythm sections and a wide dynamic range.

Who were the founding members of The Jazz Messengers?

Horace Silver and Art Blakey.

What is Art Blakey known for in his drumming style?

His use of the hi-hat on the 2nd and 4th beats and a constant, powerful presence.

What is a significant contribution of Horace Silver to jazz composition?

He created riff-based, blues-rooted melodies that are not as complex as bebop.

What does 'Soul Jazz' refer to in the context of Hard Bop?

A subgenre characterized by melodies inspired by African-American folk music and a highly rhythmic, blues-based style.

What transformation occurs in jazz singing during the 1950s?

Lyrics were added to hard bop instrumentals, creating a new era in jazz singing.

What does Tony Bennett suggest about the nature of songs in jazz?

Songs are seen as a 'blank canvas' for musicians to express their personal stories.

What is the role of improvisation in jazz according to the notes?

Improvisation allows different artists to transform the same material into unique personal expressions.

What is a trademark of Art Blakey's drumming during solos?

He interacts with and drives soloists, creating a dynamic performance.

How does Hard Bop differ from Cool Jazz?

Hard Bop emphasizes emotional and exciting elements, while Cool Jazz is more subdued and intricate.

What is the significance of the quote about songs being interesting the thousandth time?

It highlights the unique interpretations and discoveries made by different jazz musicians.

What is a common feature of improvisations in Hard Bop?

They are usually built from short motifs and variations.

What is the impact of Cannonball Adderley on the genre of Soul Jazz?

He is known for his work in Soul Jazz, particularly with pieces like 'Work Song' and 'Mercy, Mercy, Mercy'.

What does the term 'tutti ensembles' refer to in Cool Jazz?

It refers to sections where all instruments play together, often with counterpoint.

What was the mainstream status of Hard Bop in the 1950s?

It stood alongside Cool Jazz as a prominent style in modern jazz.

What does the phrase 'the different discoveries by different voices' imply about jazz music?

It suggests that each musician brings their own interpretation and story to a song, making it unique.

What is a stylistic trademark of Miles Davis as a trumpeter?

Minimal vibrato and a mix of long and short phrases.

What did Miles Davis mean by 'The space between the notes is just as important as the notes'?

He emphasized the importance of silence and space in music.

What was the name of the ensemble Miles Davis formed from 1955 to 1957?

The classic quintet.

What characterized the classic quintet's style?

Contrasting solo styles and an adaptable rhythm section.

What genre did Miles Davis explore after taking a break from cool jazz?

Hard bop with a more diverse repertoire.

What are concept albums in jazz?

Album-length programs of music centered around a single theme.

What is modal improvisation?

A style where simple modes replace complex chord progressions for improvisation.

What was the 'second great quintet' of Miles Davis?

An ensemble featuring Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Roy Carter, and Tony Williams.

What does 'time, no changes' refer to in jazz?

Eliminating strophic form and allowing open-ended solos over a constant rhythmic pulse.

What genre emerged in the 1970s that Miles Davis was associated with?

Jazz fusion.

What is the significance of the album 'Bitches Brew'?

It featured expanded ensembles and a central role for the rhythm section with electronics.

What was Miles Davis' final album released posthumously?

Doo-Bop.

What was unique about the collaboration on 'Doo-Bop'?

It featured rap vocals, loops, and sampling with hip-hop artist Easy Mo Bee.

What was John Coltrane's birth year?

1926

What was Coltrane's role in the Miles Davis quintet from 1955 to 1957?

He was a saxophonist.

What is the title of John Coltrane's album released in 1959?

Giant Steps.

What is 'sheets of sound' in relation to Coltrane's music?

A technique involving dense harmony and complex musical lines.

What was a significant aspect of Coltrane's music during 1960-67?

He led his own groups and explored various musical traditions.

What themes are present in Coltrane's music?

Deep connections to African-American musical traditions, spirituality, and political consciousness.

What is the name of Coltrane's classic quartet?

The quartet included McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Garrison, and Elvin Jones.

What is 'A Love Supreme'?

A spiritual suite composed by John Coltrane, released in 1964.

What legacy did Coltrane pioneer in jazz?

He pioneered new avenues of expression and influenced the way all instruments are played.

What jazz styles are noted for their development in the late 1950s?

Chamber Jazz and Free Jazz.

What instruments were introduced in 'new' jazz during the 1950s?

Electric guitar and Hammond organ.

What characterizes Chamber Jazz?

Small groups with an emphasis on arrangement and structure.

What is the significance of the Modern Jazz Quartet?

Formed in 1952, they adapted classical elements to jazz and were active until 1994.

What are some techniques applied by the Modern Jazz Quartet?

Fugue, counterpoint, and adaptations of classical works.

What defines Free Jazz of the late 1950s?

Non-strophic, atonal, no chord progressions, and often irregular rhythmic pulse.

Who is a notable figure associated with Free Jazz?

Ornette Coleman.

What should listeners do when encountering something 'new' in jazz?

Try to discover elements in it that are 'old' or 'familiar' and connect it to the traditions/roots of jazz.

What is the significance of Ornette Coleman's 'Ramblin' in jazz?

It features a blues form and feeling with a vocalized use of instruments, rejecting traditional musical forms for 'pure expression.'

How does Ornette Coleman's approach to music differ from traditional forms?

Coleman's music is 'free' but not necessarily 'formless'; it has no preexisting form but may be organized in a subtle, spontaneous way.

What musical technique did Cecil Taylor revive in 'Jitney No. 2'?

He revived spontaneous polyphony and took it to an extreme energy level.

What are the characteristics of chamber jazz and free jazz?

They are polar opposites but both require high levels of communication and interaction, connected to the roots of jazz.

What universal values does jazz represent according to Martin Luther King Jr.?

Jazz embodies human values such as the blues, longing for meaning, and the need for love, as well as political values like freedom, individuality, democracy, and rebellion.