Dance of the Times:1920’s – 1930’s

Jazzy sounds and dancing bodies

Observe the next image and write three observations about the participant(s) and what emotion(s) they might be

experiencing.

Birth of Jazz Music

• Jazz music is a unique blend of traditional African rhythmic styles, combining multi-rhythms and syncopation, coupled with traditionally European horn and string instruments.

• It was made popular by African-American musicians as early as the 1900’s in New Orleans, LA. As the style of music became more popular, jazz musicians could be found throughout the south, north to Chicago and east to Harlem, New York.

Birth of Jazz Musiccont.

• The musical style and form was inspired by the desire to express an African-American identity and celebrate new freedoms and opportunity in America.

• It also developed as a response to social isolation and oppression.

Jazz Music cont.

• The music is often fast, and energetic with a “swinging” quality.

• It can also be slow, with exaggerated melodies and tones.

Observe the next image and write three observations about the participant(s) and what emotion(s) they might be

experiencing.

Social Jazz Dance

• There were many social dance forms that arose from the rapidly developing jazz musical style.

• These dances were performed by men and women and later included elaborate flips and stunts.

• The movements were fast and driving in order to keep up with the multi-rhythms and sounds.

• Charleston• Black Bottom• Lindy Hop• Bunny Hop• Swing

Observe the next image and write three observations about the participant(s) and what emotion(s) they might be

experiencing.

Contemporary Jazz Dance

• Isolating body parts• Emphasis on use of

the pelvis and hips• Use of improvisation

Key Vocabulary

• Syncopation – Rhythm created with an accent on the non-dominant down-beat. Also described as “finding the rhythm in between the beats.

• Improvisation - Movement that is created spontaneously, occurring within free or highly structured environments , but always with an element of chance.

Sounds of Jazz

• Take the “A” Train – Duke Ellington and His Orchestra

• Jumpin’ at the Woodside – Count Basie and His Orchestra

• Sing, Sing, Sing (With a Swing) – Benny Goodman and His Orchestra

• The Mooche – Duke Ellington and His Orchestra • Well, Git It! – Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra • Echoes of Harlem – Duke Ellington and His

Orchestra