L'histoire du jazz

World of Art

by Mervyn Cooke

Innovative, exuberant, controversial--jazz has, in its hundred-year existence, found both popular appeal and intellectual appreciation for its emotional intensity and musical sophistication. This invaluable guide covers the whole history of jazz, from its early balancing of African and European influences, through the formative years in New Orleans and Chicago, to the rise of the big bands in New York, be-bop, the postwar proliferation of styles (hard bop, West Coast, cool, free jazz, modal jazz, fusion, crossover), and today's acceptance of jazz as a music that defies conventional categories. Setting jazz in its social and political context, the author looks at the individual talents who shaped this remarkable music, personalities as diverse as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Benny Goodman, and Miles Davis. With striking illustrations and a useful glossary, the wide-ranging text provides a thoughtful and comprehensive introduction to the twentieth century's most vibrant music.

Genres: Music, History, Jazz, Nonfiction

276 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my all time favorite books on the history of jazz. Chronicle of jazz is a great introduction to the music and personalities of America’s best music. And not just for someone beginning to listen to jazz. As someone who has been a fan of jazz for decades now COJ has been a pleasure to read. Not only is it a well written (and illustrated) history of the music, it also pays particular attention to the events of the time when the music was composed and played, putting the music in its historical context. This is the book I wish I’d been given when I first started listening to jazz. It’s still a welcome addition to my library now.

[Richard Jespers · Rating 3 out of 5]

An odd but enjoyable book, especially if you are a fan of jazz and want the blank spots filled in for you. The book is divided by single years or periods of years. On each double page, you will read short bios of jazz personalities. You will put it context with a sidebar of World Events. There is a plethora of stunning black-and-white photographs that document, along with the text, the first one hundred years of jazz. But for many, this book may only be the beginning of your studies.

[Paul Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, year-by-year, review of Jazz from its ragtime origines to the present day. Key artists, records and milestones are emphasised for each year. Richly illustrated.

[Joshua Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding basic overview of the history of jazz...As a relatively new listener, I appreciated the information more than professional jazz critics. Well-written and very informative.

[Signoranimal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book takes a fast and easy ride through the history, characters, albums and songs that shaped the most overlooked genre of music

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good overview of the Jazz genre, taking you from African music and spirtituals up through the present day.