Jazz Dictionary: Essential Terms You Need To Know

Hey jazz lovers! Ever find yourself lost in a conversation about jazz, nodding along but secretly wondering what everyone's talking about? Don't worry, you're not alone! Jazz, with its rich history and complex musical language, comes with its own set of terms. This glossary of jazz terms is designed to help you navigate the world of jazz like a pro. So, let's dive in and decode some of the essential lingo!

A

AABA Form

The AABA form, guys, is a super common song structure, especially in jazz and popular music. Think of it as a musical roadmap where 'A' represents the main theme, repeated with slight variations, and 'B' is a contrasting bridge that offers a fresh melodic or harmonic idea. The return to 'A' provides a sense of resolution, bringing the listener back to familiar territory. This structure isn't just some arbitrary arrangement; it's a carefully crafted architecture that plays with expectation and memory. Composers use the AABA form to create a balance between familiarity and novelty, ensuring that the listener remains engaged throughout the piece. The repetition of the 'A' section makes the song memorable, while the 'B' section adds intrigue and prevents the song from becoming monotonous. It's a formula that has stood the test of time, used in countless jazz standards and pop hits alike. Understanding the AABA form can deepen your appreciation for the music, allowing you to anticipate the structure and recognize the artistry in its execution. So next time you're listening to your favorite jazz tune, try to identify the AABA sections – you might be surprised at how often this structure pops up!

Altered Chord

Now, let's talk about altered chords. An altered chord is basically a chord that has one or more notes changed slightly to create a more dissonant or colorful sound. In jazz, we often alter the 5th or 9th of a chord, raising or lowering them to add some tension and spice. These alterations can create a sense of instability, making the resolution to the next chord even more satisfying. For example, a dominant 7th chord with a raised 5th (7#5) or a flattened 9th (7b9) is a classic altered chord. These chords are like the secret ingredients in a chef's recipe, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor. Jazz musicians use altered chords to push the boundaries of harmony, creating unexpected and exciting sounds that keep the music fresh and innovative. Don't be afraid to experiment with altered chords in your own playing – they can add a whole new dimension to your improvisations and compositions. Just remember to use them tastefully, as too many altered chords can make the music sound chaotic and unresolved. Finding the right balance is key to unlocking the power of altered chords in jazz.

Arrangement

The arrangement, in simple terms, is how a piece of music is adapted for a specific ensemble or performance. It's more than just writing out the notes; it involves deciding which instruments play which parts, adding harmonies, creating introductions and endings, and generally shaping the overall sound of the piece. A good arrangement can take a simple melody and transform it into a complex and engaging piece of music. Think of it as the architect's blueprint for a building – it provides the structure and details that bring the composer's vision to life. In jazz, arrangements often involve reharmonizing melodies, adding improvisation sections, and incorporating different instrumental textures. The arranger has the power to change the mood, tempo, and style of the original piece, making it their own. Some famous jazz arrangers include Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Gil Evans, who were masters of crafting arrangements that showcased the unique talents of their ensembles. So, when you listen to a jazz performance, remember that the arrangement plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and impact of the music.

Articulation

Articulation refers to how a note is played – whether it's smooth and connected (legato), short and detached (staccato), or somewhere in between. It's like the way you pronounce words when you speak; it can change the meaning and emotion of the music. In jazz, articulation is often used to create swing and rhythmic interest. For example, playing notes slightly longer or shorter than written can create a syncopated feel that is characteristic of jazz. Different types of articulation can also be used to create different moods and textures. Legato playing can create a smooth and flowing sound, while staccato playing can create a more percussive and energetic feel. Jazz musicians often use a variety of articulation techniques to add nuance and expression to their playing. Experiment with different articulations in your own playing to see how they can affect the sound and feel of the music. Pay attention to how your favorite jazz musicians use articulation to create their unique styles.

B

Bebop

Bebop, often called "Bop", emerged in the 1940s as a reaction to the swing era. Think of it as jazz's rebellious teenager phase. It's characterized by fast tempos, complex harmonies, and virtuosic improvisation. Bebop was all about pushing the boundaries of jazz, exploring new harmonic possibilities, and showcasing individual skill. Key figures in bebop include Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Thelonious Monk, who were all pioneers in developing this new style. Bebop can sound chaotic and unpredictable at first, but there's a deep logic and structure underlying the music. Bebop musicians often used chord substitutions, altered scales, and complex rhythmic patterns to create their unique sound. Listening to bebop can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It requires active listening and an appreciation for the improvisational nature of the music. So, put on some Charlie Parker, buckle up, and get ready for a wild ride into the world of bebop!

Blues

The blues is a foundational element of jazz, a genre steeped in emotion and storytelling. Originating in the African American communities of the Southern United States, the blues is characterized by its distinctive chord progressions, melancholic melodies, and expressive vocals. The blues often deals with themes of hardship, loss, and resilience, reflecting the experiences of those who created it. The 12-bar blues is a common structure, providing a framework for improvisation and variation. Blues scales, with their characteristic "blue notes" (flattened 3rd, 5th, and 7th), add to the genre's unique sound. Many jazz musicians have drawn inspiration from the blues, incorporating its elements into their own playing. The blues is more than just a musical genre; it's a cultural expression that speaks to the human condition. Its influence can be heard in countless jazz standards, as well as in other genres like rock and roll and R&B.

Break

A break in jazz is a short, improvised passage, often lasting only a few bars, where the rest of the band stops playing, giving a soloist a chance to shine. It's like a brief spotlight on one musician, allowing them to show off their skills and creativity. Breaks can be used to create tension and excitement, building anticipation for the return of the full ensemble. They can also be used to transition between sections of a song or to introduce a new melody. Breaks are a common feature in early jazz styles like Dixieland and swing, and they continue to be used in more modern forms of jazz as well. A well-executed break can be a highlight of a jazz performance, showcasing the improvisational nature of the music and the individual talents of the musicians.

Bridge

The bridge, as mentioned earlier in the context of AABA form, is a contrasting section in a song that provides a break from the main theme. It's like a detour on a road trip, offering a new perspective before returning to the familiar route. The bridge typically introduces new harmonies, melodies, or rhythms, creating a sense of contrast and interest. It often serves to build tension, leading back to the final repetition of the main theme. The bridge is an important element in many jazz standards, providing a moment of departure and return that adds depth and complexity to the music. A well-written bridge can elevate a song from good to great, making it more memorable and engaging for the listener.

C

Changes

"Changes" is jazz slang for chord progressions. When jazz musicians talk about "playing the changes," they mean improvising over a specific series of chords. Understanding the changes is crucial for successful improvisation, as it allows the musician to create melodies and harmonies that fit the underlying structure of the song. Jazz musicians often study and practice different chord progressions, learning to navigate them with ease and creativity. Common chord progressions in jazz include the 12-bar blues, rhythm changes (based on the chords to "I Got Rhythm"), and various ii-V-I progressions. Mastering the changes is an ongoing process for any jazz musician, requiring dedication, practice, and a good ear.

Chord Voicing

Chord voicing refers to the specific arrangement of notes within a chord. It's not just about playing the right notes; it's about how you stack them up to create a particular sound. Different voicings can create different textures and colors, adding depth and richness to the music. Jazz musicians often experiment with different voicings to find the perfect sound for a given situation. Some common voicing techniques in jazz include using close voicings (where the notes are close together), open voicings (where the notes are spread out), and adding extensions and alterations to the basic chord. Good chord voicings can make a huge difference in the overall sound of a jazz performance, adding subtlety and nuance to the music.

Comping

Comping, short for "accompanying," is the art of providing harmonic and rhythmic support for a soloist. It's what the pianist, guitarist, or other chordal instrument does behind the melody or improvisation. Good comping is interactive and responsive, reacting to the soloist's ideas and providing a solid foundation for their playing. Comping involves choosing appropriate chord voicings, rhythms, and dynamics to create a supportive and engaging accompaniment. Jazz comping often involves using syncopation, chord substitutions, and other techniques to add interest and complexity to the music. A good accompanist knows when to lay back and when to push forward, creating a dynamic and balanced musical interaction.

Crossover

Crossover refers to music that blends elements of jazz with other genres, such as rock, pop, or classical music. It's about breaking down boundaries and creating new and innovative sounds. Crossover jazz can be controversial among purists, but it has also produced some exciting and groundbreaking music. Artists like Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and Pat Metheny have all explored crossover territory, incorporating elements of funk, rock, and electronic music into their jazz playing. Crossover jazz can be a great way to introduce new audiences to jazz music, bridging the gap between different musical worlds.

D

Dixieland

Dixieland, also known as "New Orleans Jazz", is one of the earliest forms of jazz, originating in the early 20th century. Think of it as the granddaddy of jazz. It's characterized by a lively, energetic sound, with collective improvisation and a focus on melody. Dixieland bands typically include instruments like trumpet, clarinet, trombone, banjo, and drums. The music is often upbeat and danceable, reflecting the vibrant culture of New Orleans. Dixieland relies heavily on improvisation, with each instrument contributing its own melodic line to the overall texture. Dixieland is a joyful and infectious style of jazz that continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.

Dominant Chord

The dominant chord is a chord built on the fifth degree of a scale. It's a crucial element in jazz harmony, creating a strong pull towards the tonic chord (the chord built on the first degree of the scale). The dominant chord typically includes a major third and a minor seventh, giving it a distinctive sound. Jazz musicians often use dominant chords to create tension and anticipation, leading to a satisfying resolution. Dominant chords can also be altered or extended, adding even more color and complexity to the harmony. Understanding the function of the dominant chord is essential for understanding jazz harmony.

E

Extensions

Extensions are notes added to a basic chord to create a richer, more complex sound. Common extensions include the 9th, 11th, and 13th. These notes are added above the root, 3rd, 5th, and 7th of the chord, creating new harmonic possibilities. Jazz musicians often use extensions to add color and sophistication to their chord voicings. Extensions can also be altered, creating even more interesting and dissonant sounds. Understanding how to use extensions is a key skill for any jazz musician.

This glossary is just a starting point, guys, but hopefully, it'll give you a solid foundation for exploring the amazing world of jazz! Keep listening, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the music!