Since 2001, National Museum of American History has designated April as Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM). What is jazz? Well, according to this article on the history museum’s site, jazz is “a kind of music in which improvisation is typically an important part.” They note that there is large amount of variety in jazz but it is “very rhythmic” has a “forward momentum” and “uses bent or blue notes.” Each jazz musician puts their own touch on whatever song they are playing or singing. This means that you can listen to the same song by different artists and get a different feel each time.
Jazz has its roots in the brass bands and Mardi Gras Indians of New Orleans. The ethnic diversity of the city at the turn of the 20th century helped spread the music to various communities. The first jazz recording was made in New York City in 1917. The song was a hit and the demand for more led to New Orleans musicians to take their music on the road. The rest, as they say, is history.
The National Museum of American History offers a number of ways to celebrate JAM. Here are a few of that you can do with the help of The Library:
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Seek out new jazz music, musicians, and albums – Our collection has nearly 500 jazz titles on CD.
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Read a biography about one of your favorite jazz musicians – Biographies in our collection include Sarah Vaughn and Cab Calloway. Include the kids in your life by reading about Ella Fitzgerald or Miles Davis.
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Watch a jazz documentary, film, or performance – check out a DVD like Chasing Trane, Billie or Bert Stern’s Jazz on a Summer’s Day.
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Read a jazz magazine or other publication online or in print – Did you know that OverDrive now has magazines? There are over 3500 titles including JazzTimes.
Check out the museum’s full list for even more ways to celebrate!