MUS 263 How Jazz Began

Explores the early history of jazz, America's principal contribution to world musical-culture. Considers jazz antecedents-the blues, ragtime-and origins in early twentieth century New Orleans. Then considers the "Chicago School," early territory bands, "New Orleans revival," big band tradition of the 1940s, and small group sessions and beginnings of bebop. Although there is consideration of the historical/music-historical backgrounds, emphasis is on the music itself, through original recordings and scholarly transcriptions, which permit detailed analyses of jazz characteristics at critical moments in history. Students may not earn credit for both MUS 263 and MUS 363. [H, GM1]

Instructor

Cummings