Jazz is a combination of MANY styles of music, mostly music of the slaves. It was first performed publicly in New Orleans in 1900, The first jazz performers did everything by improvisation (making it up on the spot) with a strong beat from the drums and bass instruments that made it very powerful. Jazz has since become popular around the world and is called “America’s Music.” There are many instruments that can be used in a jazz group, and they can be 3-piece groups or 20-piece groups! Instruments include; clarinet, flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drumset, guitar, bass, piano & voice. Improvisation is a main trait of jazz music.

Here are some suggested recordings of Jazz music from Mrs. Marro:

1. What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

2. In the Mood by Glenn Miller (trombone player!)

3. Salt Peanuts by Dizzy Gillespie

4. “Jump, Jive & Wail” by Brian Setzer Orchestra

Please feel free to add any of your ideas to this list!