Definition for Jazz
From Biology Forums Dictionary
Jazz (originating early 20th century and ongoing) began as a combination of elements from many cultures, including West African, American, and European. Mostly, its creators were African-American musicians who performed in the streets, bars, brothels, and dance halls of New Orleans and other southern cities. It is highly improvisational in nature and typically employs syncopated rhythm, a steady beat, and distinctive tone colors and performance techniques. It contains a number of sub-styles such as Dixieland, swing, bebop, cool jazz, free jazz, and jazz rock. Typically jazz is performed by small combos ranging from three to eight players or by “big bands” of ten to fifteen players. The rhythm section (piano, plucked double bass, and percussion) tends to be the backbone of the jazz ensemble.