What Is Jazz?

Teaching Artist: Chris Rathbun

“What Is Jazz?” is an interactive overview and discussion group that dives into the history, culture, and nuts and bolts of jazz as well as the very American concepts of individualism, self-expression, and free thinking. Participants will explore various music genres, connecting each to cultural events in art, literature, and, especially, dance styles of the time. Through listening sessions, hands-on music activities, and live demonstrations we’ll help Jazz listeners (and non-listeners) to understand, hear, and feel Jazz as a living language that Jazz musicians use to communicate. What are they doing? Do you listen to what you are hearing? What is “deep listening"? With a little hands-on theory, you might better understand why jazz musicians are often more fluent in music theory than some orchestra players. We’ll examine topics like why the popular music of the 1920s was considered fresh and exciting—and why it might sound “corny” to some today (just as today’s hits might sound in 2124!). Join us for a journey through the evolution of jazz and its enduring impact on music and culture.