Jazz Terminology

A style of jazz identifiable by unusual rhythms, dissonance and lots of improvisation.

• Swing

• Bebop

• Funk

• Rock

A form of music introduced in the early 20th century derived from the African American work songs as principle source material.

• Blues

• Funk

• Rock

• Opera

During a tune this occurs when all the band members stop playing except the one who is improvising a solo

• Break

• Change

• Stop time

• Lunch

One musician or section will play a short melodic idea and is answered by another musician or section.

• Call and response

• Solo

• Chorus

• Head

Jazz terminology for chords; the tune's chord progression

• Changes

• Coda

• Cadence

• Tail

Rhythmically interesting chording by the keyboardist or guitarist which provides improvised accompaniment for melodies

• Comping

• Soloing

• Faking

• Gigging

Style of jazz identified by relaxed tempos and open space in the melody.

• Cool Jazz

• Hot Jazz

• Spicy Jazz

• Ice Jazz

Early instrumental jazz band music. The name given to New Orleans style jazz when it began to be played in Northern cities.

• Dixieland

• Swing

• Bop

• Rag

A jazz style in which performers improvise without restrictions as to melody, harmony, or other musical elements.

• Free Jazz

• Open Jazz

• Cool Jazz

• Hard Jazz

Straight-eighth, medium tempo rock groove incorporating syncopated sixteenth notes against a steady, underlying pulse.

• Punk

• Funk

• Swing

• Latin