OSHER 618 - Jazz: An American Original

Jazz is an original American art form, the combination of Western European classical music traditions and African culture. Explore the essence of jazz, its unique elements, and the multitude of styles that have been part of its history. We will discuss the principle developers and performers of the music and samples of their contributions to the art as well as the history and evolution of this hundred-year-old genre. Class members will be encouraged to attend live musical presentations as well as to listen to examples of the music discussed in class.