Jazz Music

Jazz is a fun and exciting kind of music. It began in New Orleans in the early 1900s. Jazz mixes African rhythms with European music ideas. Musicians often make up parts of the song as they play.

How Jazz Started

Jazz was born in New Orleans more than 100 years ago. African American musicians created it by blending many styles together. It grew from blues and ragtime music. Soon, jazz spread across the United States and around the world.

How Jazz Sounds

Jazz has a special beat called swing that makes people want to dance. Musicians play solos where they make up notes on the spot. This is called improvisation. Common jazz instruments are the saxophone, trumpet, piano, and drums.

Fun Facts

• Louis Armstrong was one of the most famous jazz musicians ever.
• Jazz has its own special day on April 30 called International Jazz Day.
• The word 'jazz' was first used around 1915.

Did You Know?

Jazz musicians often play the same song differently each time. No two jazz performances are exactly alike.