How to Discover and Enjoy Jazz Music: A Personal Guide
When it comes to jazz music, the term ldquo;Jazzrdquo; signifies a level of enlivenment, much like the familiar phrase ldquo;Jazz it up.rdquo; Despite the rich history and evolving landscape of jazz, my late father, a seasoned pianist, imparted invaluable insights that continue to guide my personal journey. Jazz to me is often acoustic, and my musical diet was shaped by Trad Dixieland Jazz in my formative years. Today, I find solace in artists like the Firehouse Five, Chris Barber, and Monty Sunshine. These musicians are consummate artists in their own right.
Exploring Jazz through Digital Platforms
Just as with any other genre of music, digital platforms offer endless opportunities to sample and discover new sounds. Streaming platforms such as YouTube Music, even the free version, can help you explore the vast array of jazz styles and artists. Listen to a wide variety of songs. Donrsquo;t just settle for the first thing you hear; keep exploring and be patient. Finding the sounds that resonate with you takes time and patience.
Listening to Jazz Radio Stations
Another delightful way to explore jazz is through jazz radio stations. These stations not only play music but also provide informative content about new and old artists. For instance, if you reside in Chicago, the radio station WDCB 90.9 FM is an excellent choice. As a public radio station, WDCBrsquo;s DJs are often musicians themselves, offering listeners a wealth of information on both emerging and established artists and their recordings.
Understanding Jazz Diversity
Jazz is a broad and diverse genre, encompassing a variety of styles that go beyond traditional music boundaries. Personal preferences and taste play a significant role in what constitutes ldquo;goodrdquo; jazz. No explanation or account can be given for onersquo;s personal taste in music. Yet, my personal favorite, Bossa Nova, stands out as one of the great genres of the 20th century, known for its complex harmonics and rhythms but presenting itself in a soothing and accessible manner.
Musicians like Antonio Jobim and Stan Getz excel in this genre. For a relaxing and ambient experience, consider artists such as Bekhi Mselekhu, Eliane Elias, Gary Burton, Diana Krall, and Bill Evans. Alternatively, if yoursquo;re drawn to technically complex and energetic performances, explore the works of artists like Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, and Charlie Parker, and the further ahead to John Coltrane.
For a unique fusion of rock and jazz, look into Weather Report, Pat Metheny Group, Herbie Hancock, and west African jazz pioneers like Salif Keita and Dudu Pukwana. Southern African legends like Hugh Masakela offer an enriching intersection of genres.
To explore the ldquo;Great American Songbookrdquo; and classical vocal jazz, consider the virtuosic singers Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and more contemporary artists like Kurt Elling and Cassandra Wilson. Artists with a folk or blues background include Ralph Towner, John Scofield, and John Abercrombie.
Many jazz musicians have embraced various styles, making them versatile players. Miles Davis is one such artist; his album ldquo;Kind of Bluerdquo; is a timeless masterpiece.
Ultimately, tuning into a good jazz station that plays a wide variety of music can enrich your listening experience. Happy listening!