Jazz is largely based on improvisation. It has evolved while balancing traditional forces with the pursuit of new ideas and approaches. Today jazz continues to expand at an exciting rate while following a similar path. Here you will find resources that shed light on the basics of one of the greatest musical developments in modern history.
A brief history of saxophonists in jazz.
Ideas for classic jazz albums. Some of the best jazz records made throughout the history of jazz.
Jazz is perhaps best experienced live, but by documenting the music of various artists, some albums have become veritable works of art in and of themselves. Below is a list of ten albums that represent important periods in the development of jazz, and whose music is as fresh today as when it was recorded. The list functions as a mere introduction to classic jazz recordings.
A brief history of the origin and development of jazz.
A description of ragtime, including its musical characteristics, origins, and a list of prominent composers.
A description of early jazz, also referred to as hot jazz or Dixieland music.
A description of the music from the swing era of jazz.
A description of bebop, the innovative style of jazz that developed in the 1940s.
A description of the Brazilian music that combined samba with jazz.
