Many people find jazz confusing. They can't figure out where this uniquely American music is going and they can't detect a melody. First of all there are several different and distinct types of jazz and you may not like them all but you might wind up finding some of the music appealing. Let's do some exploring and see if an understanding of this musical idiom will allow you to enjoy at least some of it.
You hear a trumpet blaring, an electric bass thumping, and someone playing weird-sounding chords on a piano and you think, “what is this?” You’re at a lounge and other people seem to be enjoying it but you don’t. You think, “this must be an acquired taste because I just don’t get it.” Well, you’re not alone. Let’s see if we can “get it” for you.
First, it is important to understand that jazz isn’t for everyone. It is “minority” music. Although it started with Black musicians, that isn’t what we’re talking about. Jazz is similar to classical music – relatively few people (a minority) listen to it. And that probably won’t change. Jazz will never be the music of the masses because most people 1) aren’t exposed to it, and 2) don’t want to learn about it. But for those with an open mind, let’s begin with the types of jazz, namely Dixieland, Classic/Trad Jazz, Big Band, Mainstream, and Progressive.
Dixieland
Dixieland, as the name implies, started in the South, mainly in New Orleans but also has Chicago influences. It got its roots from the Black community and in the 20’s it took off. It is very melodic and most of the songs have high energy. Some of the more memorable hits include Margie, Avalon, When The Saints Come Marching In, When You’re Smiling and the Sheik of Araby. A banjo or two are almost ubiquitous in every Dixieland group. Other typical instruments would include a piano, trumpet, clarinet, drums, trombone, and acoustic guitar. A word about the piano sound. Usually they are tuned especially for the Dixieland sound – slightly out of tune but not quite. Once you hear it you will immediately know the sound.
A typical song would feature all of the group, then each person takes a turn with their featured instrument. This, by the way, is true in most jazz groups. Some of the more famous Dixieland artists include: the Firehouse Five, Eddie Peabody, Louis Armstrong, the Dukes of Dixieland, the Preservation Hall Dixieland Jazz Band, the Original Dixieland Band, Eddie Condon, Al Hirt, and Pete Fountain to name a few. One particularly unique thing about Dixieland is that it still is played for New Orleans funerals with a procession to the grave site. It begins in somber tones then changes radically for the wake. The bottom line is that Dixieland is really fun and you can tap the soles off your shoes as you listen.