The Era of Jazz In the 30s & 40s

by Mariah Wolfe

What's Jazz?

Jazz is a music genre that evolved in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century in the African-American communities of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, having origins in blues and ragtime.

What Were the Early

Forms Of Jazz?

Early jazz is purposefully "hot," passionate, and upbeat. It's full of lively swinging tempos, unexpected musical changes, and "weird" effects like half-valving, mutes, glissandos, and growls. Swing jazz and bebop were very popular during this time.

Different Forms of Jazz

Swing

1930s

Swing music is a subgenre of jazz that emerged in the 1930s and 1940s in the United States. The emphasis on the off–beat, or slower pulse, inspired the name swing. Soloists in swing bands would frequently improvise on the melody over the arrangement to create a more free feeling. Swing jazz is also a form a jazz that many people danced to during this era. 

Bebop

1940s

Bebop  is a small-band contemporary jazz music style that emerged in the early 1940s. Bebop has its roots in swing music and features quick tempos, daring improvisation, complex harmonies and chord progressions, and an emphasis on individual skill.

Cool Jazz

1940s

Cool jazz is a contemporary jazz music style that emerged in the United States following World War II. In contrast to the rapid and intricate bebop style, it is distinguished by slower tempos and softer tones. Cool jazz is frequently performed at  formal arrangements and integrates classical music influences.

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