"You have to practice improvisation, let no one kid you about it!"
~Art Tatum
In case I didn't say it loud enough, the main hallmark of JaZz is its improvisational nature. Improvisation is instant composition. It is musical creation that is spontaneous and in the moment. It is an interactive conversation between the musicians and vocalist (if a vocalist is present) that expresses their unique individuality. This improvisation may be centered in the melody or harmony being played or sung. However, it may also be expressed through the rhythm, time signature, syncopation and/or lyrics.
Joachim Berendt contended that JaZz differs from European music in that JaZz has a "special relationship to time, defined as 'swing'." So what is 'swing?'
More later . . .
Hugs, Carolena