Jazz has been an integral part of my life, especially in high school and marching ensembles. The genre of jazz is known for its off-beat rhythms and spectacular improvisation. Originating in small African American communities in New Orleans, jazz has become an integral part of African American culture and other cultures as well. There are also sub-genres of jazz, such as Swing, Spiritual, Ragtime, and, my personal favorite, Bebop jazz.

The Bebop movement began during the 1940s, with pioneers Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane paving the way in one of the most influential periods of Jazz of the 20th century. Characteristics of Bebop are similar to those of Scat singing, with multiple key changes in succession and vicarious improvisation. One example I'd love to share with you all is "Budo" by Miles Davis, released in the 1950s on his most notable album "Birth of the Cool." A description can be seen below the video:

"This electric and fast paced piece is quite the project. Instruments in this piece included a piano, alto saxophone, Trombone, Tuba, Miles Davis on trumpet, and a Baritone Saxophone. Most of what Miles Davis wrote was Bebop, and Budo is no exception. The song opens up with pulsating rhythm, accents and a dynamic that stays fairly consistent through the opening minutes. Miles Davis was the first soloist heard, followed by a tenor saxophone, then a trombone solo before the music form goes back to normal. The solos consisted of slurred eighth notes with the piano comping behind each solo, creating a very smooth and clear rhythm that is both fun and articulate. This form of Bebop Jazz attracted those who listened for musical purpose, and lacked true rhythm for dancing. However, this piece was transcendent during the bebop era."

I hope you can look into Miles Davis and can get into the smooth culture of Bebop jazz!