4 main {sources, influences} of Jazz standard and their {year, decade…} of {foundation,creation}

4 Main Sources and Influences of Jazz Standards

Jazz is a genre of music that has a rich and diverse history, drawing inspiration from various sources and influences. Understanding the origins and influences of jazz standards provides valuable insights into the development and evolution of this beloved musical genre. In this article, we will explore the four main sources and influences of jazz standards, shedding light on their foundation and creation.

1. African American Musical Styles: Blues and Work Songs

One of the primary sources of jazz standards lies in African American musical styles, particularly blues and work songs. These musical forms, born out of the experiences of African American communities, provided the foundation for what is now considered “traditional jazz” or “Dixieland Jazz.” The blues, with its expressive melodies and soulful lyrics, served as a cornerstone for jazz improvisation and emotional expression. Work songs, sung by enslaved individuals during labor, influenced the rhythmic and call-and-response elements of jazz music.

2. Show Tunes and Popular Hits

Another significant influence on jazz standards comes from show tunes and popular hits of the time. Many jazz composers began their careers by composing music for popular entertainment, especially in Tin Pan Alley, a hub of music publishing in New York City. The catchy melodies and memorable hooks of popular tunes found their way into the jazz repertoire, with musicians reinterpreting and improvising on these familiar melodies. This crossover between popular music and jazz helped to popularize the genre and expand its reach.

3. Classical Music Influences

Jazz has also been influenced by classical music, particularly in terms of harmony and chord progressions. European “impressionist” composers, such as Debussy and Ravel, introduced new harmonic possibilities and extended chords that found their way into jazz compositions. Prominent jazz musicians like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong drew inspiration from classical music, incorporating elements of orchestration, complex arrangements, and sophisticated melodic structures into their jazz performances. This fusion of classical and jazz elements added depth and complexity to the genre.

4. Latin-American Influence

Latin-American music has made a significant impact on jazz standards, infusing the genre with vibrant rhythms and exotic flavors. Brazilian jazz styles like bossa nova and samba, as well as afro-cuban styles and rhythms, have been embraced in jazz standards. Musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Getz played pivotal roles in popularizing Latin jazz, blending the infectious rhythms of Latin America with the improvisational nature of jazz. The Latin-American influence continues to be a vibrant and integral part of the jazz tradition.

Year of Creation

Understanding the timeline of jazz standards’ creation offers valuable insights into the historical context and evolution of the genre. While jazz as a distinct musical form began to emerge in the early 20th century, the creation of specific jazz standards varies.

• The earliest jazz recordings were made by the Original Dixieland Jass Band in 1917, and their composition “Tiger Rag” has become a popular jazz standard.
• Other jazz standards written before 1920 include songs like “Darktown Strutters’ Ball,” “Indiana,” “St. Louis Blues,” and “After You’ve Gone,” among others.

These early jazz standards laid the foundation for the development of the genre and continue to be celebrated and performed by jazz musicians worldwide.

In conclusion, jazz standards have been shaped by a diverse range of sources and influences. African American musical styles, show tunes, classical music, and Latin-American music have all contributed to the rich tapestry of jazz standards. Understanding these influences and the timeline of their creation provides a deeper appreciation for the history and evolution of jazz music.

Sources:

1. Music Fans Stack Exchange. “4 Main Sources Influences of Jazz Standard and their Year Decade of Foundation.” Available at: https://musicfans.stackexchange.com/questions/2866/4-main-sources-influences-of-jazz-standard-and-their-year-decade-of-fo
2. Wikipedia. “List of Pre-1920 Jazz Standards.” Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_pre-1920_jazz_standards
3. Greater Toronto Music. “The Eras & History of Jazz Music.” Available at: https://www.greatertorontomusic.ca/post/the-eras-history-of-jazz-music

FAQs

What are the main sources of jazz standards?

The main sources of jazz standards include African American musical styles such as blues and work songs, show tunes and popular hits, classical music influences, and Latin-American music.

How did African American musical styles contribute to the development of jazz standards?

African American musical styles, particularly blues and work songs, provided the foundation for what is now considered “traditional jazz” or “Dixieland Jazz.” The expressive melodies and rhythmic elements of blues and work songs influenced jazz improvisation and emotional expression.

How did popular music influence the creation of jazz standards?

Many jazz composers started their careers by composing music for popular entertainment, especially in Tin Pan Alley in New York City. The catchy melodies and memorable hooks of popular tunes found their way into the jazz repertoire, with musicians reinterpreting and improvising on these familiar melodies.

How did classical music influence jazz standards?

Classical music influenced jazz through its harmony and chord progressions. European “impressionist” composers introduced new harmonic possibilities and extended chords that jazz musicians incorporated into their compositions. Prominent jazz musicians like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong were influenced by classical music, adding orchestration, complex arrangements, and sophisticated melodic structures to their jazz performances.

How did Latin-American music contribute to jazz standards?

Latin-American music, including Brazilian jazz styles like bossa nova and samba, as well as afro-cuban styles and rhythms, had a significant influence on jazz standards. Musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Getz played pivotal roles in popularizing Latin jazz, blending the infectious rhythms of Latin America with the improvisational nature of jazz.

What is the timeline for the creation of jazz standards?

While jazz as a distinct musical form began to emerge in the early 20th century, the creation of specific jazz standards varies. The earliest jazz recordings were made in 1917 by the Original Dixieland Jass Band, and their composition “Tiger Rag” has become a popular jazz standard. Other jazz standards written before 1920 include songs like “Darktown Strutters’ Ball,” “Indiana,” “St. Louis Blues,” and “After You’ve Gone,” among others.

How have jazz standards evolved over time?

Jazz standards have evolved over time through reinterpretation, improvisation, and the incorporation of new musical styles and influences. Jazz musicians have continued to add their own unique interpretations and arrangements to these timeless compositions, keeping them fresh and relevant in contemporary jazz performances.

Are jazz standards still relevant in modern music?

Absolutely! Jazz standards continue to be an essential part of the jazz repertoire and are regularly performed and recorded by jazz musicians worldwide. These compositions serve as a foundation for improvisation and provide a common language for jazz musicians to communicate and collaborate, ensuring their enduring relevance in modern music.