The Philosophy of Jazz

by Kevin Le Gendre

Kevin Le Gendre brings his considerable knowledge and experience to The Philosophy of Jazz, interpreting the mindset, outlook and ambition of the jazz musician and a form of music that has captured the imagination of international audiences for over a century. This is not a history of this genre of music but an exploration of what it means to be a jazz musician and the alchemy between players and audience during a live-music session. While drawing on historical references, in terms of cultural touch stones in Black music and the Black experience, this fascinating book very much immerses itself in the current jazz scene and the interesting directions being explored.

Genres: Nonfiction

105 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication November 17, 2026

Reviews

[Isabella · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a philosophy book, so slightly misleading title. More of an easy read, giving a brief history of the genre and a list of well known and less well known names, their styles and some notable gigs. Some ideas for what artists to check out, which I will follow up.