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How Did Jazz Become "Respectable" Music?

by jonsukben - 25 May, 2023 - 08:01 AM
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(This post was last modified: 28 May, 2023 - 12:11 PM by jonsukben. Edited 1 time in total.)
Back in the day--from the origin of Jazz in the 1890's to about the early 1950's--Jazz was considered the rebellious music of the youth, so much so that it provided the soundtrack to the very decadent roaring 20's. It was music associated with drinking, hard drugs, per-marital sex and the moral decay of the West. How exactly did it end up going from that to how we now see Jazz: respectable music for high-society types in a similar way to Classical music? and generally what lessons can Rock learn from it as it transitions to a kind of rooted tradition, not totally unlike Jazz & Classical.
If the image of Jazz can do a complete 180 and go from degenerate rebellious music to highly respectable, can Rock do the same? or is the idea of subversion & rebellion too deeply rooted in the Rock tradition to ever become truly "respectable" and "high-class" and taught/studied in universities the same way the aforementioned genres are?
what do you guys think?
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The journey of jazz becoming a "respectable" form of music is a complex and multifaceted one that evolved over time. Jazz originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in African American communities, particularly in New Orleans, Louisiana. Initially, it was seen as a form of entertainment associated with dance halls, bars, and brothels, often considered inappropriate or even scandalous by some segments of society.
However, several factors contributed to jazz gaining recognition and respectability as a significant musical genre:
  1. Artistic and Technical Complexity: Jazz musicians demonstrated remarkable skill and virtuosity, showcasing improvisation, complex harmonies, and intricate rhythms. This elevated the perception of jazz as a sophisticated and technically demanding art form.
  2. Influence of Early Jazz Pioneers: Jazz was pioneered by talented musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton, and others. Their artistic contributions and innovations helped shape the development of jazz and influenced subsequent generations of musicians.
  3. Cultural Integration: Over time, jazz began to transcend racial and cultural boundaries. Musicians from diverse backgrounds started embracing jazz and incorporating it into their compositions. This increased acceptance helped bridge societal gaps and contribute to the wider recognition of jazz as an inclusive and culturally significant form of music.
  4. Support from Prominent Figures: Jazz gained the support and endorsement of influential figures in the arts and culture. Prominent composers, critics, and intellectuals recognized the artistic value of jazz and began advocating for its acceptance in mainstream society.
  5. Jazz Education: The establishment of jazz education programs and institutions, such as the Berklee College of Music and the Juilliard School, played a crucial role in legitimizing jazz as an academic discipline. These institutions provided formal education and training for aspiring jazz musicians, further cementing jazz's position as a respected musical tradition.
  6. Jazz in Concert Halls: As jazz evolved and gained recognition, it found its way into prestigious concert venues and performance spaces. Jazz musicians started performing in formal concert settings, alongside symphony orchestras and chamber ensembles, which helped elevate the perception of jazz as a serious art form.
  7. Recording Industry: The advent of recording technology allowed jazz to reach a broader audience. Recordings enabled jazz musicians to showcase their talents and compositions, transcending geographical limitations and exposing the music to a wider range of listeners. This helped to increase the appreciation and acceptance of jazz as a legitimate and culturally significant genre.
Through a combination of artistic excellence, cultural integration, institutional support, and evolving societal attitudes, jazz gradually transformed from a marginalized form of music into a respected and revered art form that has made a lasting impact on music and culture worldwide.

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