How Classic Jazz Artists Changed the American Music Tradition
Till the end of the First World War, Western Culture was largely influenced by and drew inspiration from European music and philosophy. The early twentieth century witnessed American Culture achieving some sort of severance from the Old Country. The evolution of a unique North American Culture was taking place. White Americans for long had refused to accept that African American society could make a positive contribution to our collective culture. American music in the 20s and 30s was experiencing a convergence of European and African music traditions resulting in the emergence of a new type of melody and rhythm which altered the Music Scene of that time forever. Entertainment was undergoing a sea change with the advent of radio, motion pictures, talking pictures and other new fangled ?in? things. With the emergence of Ragtime and Swing, Blues and Classical Jazz artists from the African American communities of the Southern states, Americans started listening to a whole new sound that revolutionized Western music and culture making it what we know of today. Black American influence in music and culture had for long never been given respect nor allowed to assimilate into the mainstream. Talented and famous band leaders like Benny Goodman encouraged racially integrated Jazz bands with white and black classic jazz artists. Benny Goodman?s accomplishments led to the discovery of many Negro artistes who later achieved national recognition and celebrity.
Jazz as an art form is difficult to define but its improvisation traditions is one of its major elements. The repetitive call and response pattern of Blues owes its origins to the oral traditions of early African slaves. Much of the early Black American music was spiritual and gospel in its traditions. Jazz music is more sensual with some sexual connotation. The beats and rhythm of jazz and swing were considered immoral and many traditionalists were threatened by what they thought of as a decline in values and culture. The “Roaring Twenties” were seen as a decadent time with the popularity of swing and jazz.
Classic Jazz artists include some immortal names like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Among the younger group of traditional classic Jazz artists the names of Dave Brubeck, Sonny Rollins, Wynton Marsalis and Wayne Shorter may be included. Classical Jazz still appeals to a loyal fan following in the US and encourages a whole new breed of young motivated Classic Jazz artists like Brad Mehldau, Vijay Iyer and Jason Moran among many others to charm and enchant modern audiences today.
Jazz music is more sensual with some sexual connotation. If you love Classic Jazz artists you’ll want to visit the website of Sylvia Brooks, a talented jazz artist with passion for her art.
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