The Chronicle of Jazz

World of Art

by Mervyn Cooke

Here is the whole story of the history and the personalities that have formed this century's most exciting music, a story rich with innovation, experimentation, controversy, and emotion.Beginning at the turn of the century, The Chronicle of Jazz charts the evolution of jazz from its roots in Africa and the southern United States to the myriad styles heard around the world today. The book looks closely at how jazz has influenced -- and been influenced by -- other musical and artistic forms. Each chronologically arranged section contains special features on topics ranging from the individual qualities of the bass clarinet and the jazz scene in Paris to personality sketches and seminal gigs. Cross references throughout point to related motifs, people, and music, and a complete reference section at the back contains an extensive discography, a glossary, biographies, a bibliography, and an index.Modeled on the improvisation, interaction, and rhythm of jazz itself, this book features hundreds of rare images of all kinds, from record covers to pictures of live performances, and is accompanied by an accessible and wide-ranging text that turns music into words and history into living images. The Chronicle of Jazz is a celebration of the 20th century's most imaginative and enduring music, and an essential work of reference for all lovers of music.

Genres: Music, History, Jazz, Nonfiction

256 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.