SYNCOPATION

This is a shifting of normal rhythmic stress from the strong beat to the weak beat, accenting the offbeat and playing one rhythm against another in such a way that listeners want to move, not their heads, clap hands or dance. Syncopation is basic and continuous in Jazz and, upon it, are built very complex rhythms.

IMPROVISATION

This is composing as one plays, or making up variations on old themes directly on the instrument being played rather than from written notes. Improvisation spotlights the interest and beauty of the individual performer.

RHYTHM

In Jazz, this is not limited to percussion beats alone. The variations of volume, tone and pitch may also be used in such a way as to give a Jazz performance additional accents of sound-rhythm, played against a variety of counter-rhythms supplied by percussion.

BREAK

This is a brief syncopated interlude, usually of two to four bars, between musical phrases - often improvised in unwritten Jazz.

RIFF

This is a single rhythmic phrase repeated over and over, usually as a background to the lead melody. A a riff may be used also as a melodic theme itself.

JOY OF PLAYING

This is the element that gives Jazz it's zest and verve...its happy, dancing quality that brings musicians of all ages and races together in impromptu jam sessions. Here new musical ideas are born as the musicians play together for hours without written music - just for fun.