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Jazz – Definition
Jazz is a musical genre characterized by improvisation, swing, syncopation, and rich harmonic language. Originating in the United States in the early twentieth century, jazz has influenced countless other styles of music.
What is Jazz?
Jazz combines elements of African American musical traditions with European harmony and form. Common features include extended chords, swing rhythm, blues influences, syncopation, and improvisation over chord progressions.
Although jazz has developed into many different styles—including traditional jazz, bebop, cool jazz, fusion, and contemporary jazz—improvisation and interaction between musicians remain central to the genre.
How is Jazz used in piano playing?
Jazz pianists use a wide range of harmonic and rhythmic techniques, including extended chords, rootless voicings, walking bass lines, comping, and improvisation. These techniques have also influenced pop, rock, gospel, soul, and many other musical styles.
Studying jazz helps pianists develop harmonic understanding, rhythmic flexibility, listening skills, and greater freedom in accompaniment and improvisation.