Jazz & Popular Music Genres Flashcards
Scat Singing
The use of nonsense syllables to create spontaneous melodies in the style of an instrument.
Americana/Alternative Country
A catch-all category for country music that has strong influences from any of a number of Modern Rock genres; Often features a rougher, less polished sound.
Avant-Garde
A term used in many forms of art & across musical styles to describe the introduction of new, experimental, or unusual ideas.
Big Band
A large ensemble made up of a rhythm section, brass, & woodwinds.
Early Hip-Hop & Rap
Originated from DJs playing records & acting as MCs by commenting over the recording; Sometimes multiple records were used together & faded between using a mixer.
Jazz
An umbrella term used to label a variety of musical styles whose origins can be traced back to the musical traditions of Black Americans in the late 19th & early 20th centuries.
Combo
A common & small ensemble made up of a rhythm section & “horn” section.
Blues
A type of music known for its distinct harmonic form (12-Bar), vocal inflections, & pitch flexibility. Originated from spirituals & work songs.
Modern Gospel
Built on traditional gospel; Used accompaniment & sung by quartets or ensembles; Known for its very jubilant, shouting quality to singing.
Traditional Pop
Musical genre known for its vocal soloists (star status) with smooth singing style (crooner); Often accompanied by a big band or studio orchestra.
Traditional Gospel
Similar to spirituals; Vocal soloist with a choir; Call & response; Often sung in Southern churches.
Improvisation
The act of spontaneous composition.
Traditional/Classic Country
Grew out of folk/blues/etc.; Lyrics focus on personal stories; Vocalist with “twang” accompanied by a simple guitar part.
