Swing and Bebop Differences

Question 1

What is the rhythm difference?

Answer 1

Swing - Emphasis on unity in rhythm sections
Bebop - Scattered, irregular accents
Ragtime - Syncopation

Question 2

What is the melody difference?

Answer 2

Swing - smooth, singable melodies
Bebop - Subjugation of melody to rhythm
Ragtime - Jagged

Question 3

What is the harmony difference?

Answer 3

Swing - Simple, in 4 parts
Bebop - Level of dissonance raised, use of tritone
Ragtime - Simple

Question 4

What is the form difference?

Answer 4

Swing - 32 bar song form, height of rifts
Bebop - Very independant
Ragtime - Sectional

Question 5

What is the ensemble difference?

Answer 5

Swing - Family groupings
Bebop - Smaller, independant
Ragtime - Usually just piano

Question 6

What are the other difference?

Answer 6

Swing - featured small groups
Bebop - re-establishment of blues