Embedded Files
The History of Jazz
Watch the video and make notes on the important points of the history of Jazz
You can also watch this video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgUxQt-V-BI
Understanding the piece I am learning to play called 'It don't mean a thing'
Context
'It don't mean a thing' by Duke Ellington (lyrics written by Irving Mills) is a swing piece originally written for jazz band in 1931.
What is the structure of this piece?
The piece starts with the 'head' where you will hear the melody and accompaniment.
The main part of the performance is the improvisation section. Different instruments take it in turns to improvise, which means they are making music up on the spot!
The performance will usually end with the head again, although it may sound a little different to signal the end of the performance.
Now listen to this recording from 1943 to hear this in action.
This is a video of the piece which has been made for keyboard.
Watch and listen to hear how your keyboard performance of 'It don't mean a thing' Duke Ellington should sound by the end of this topic.
Listen to the brief timeline of Jazz
1910
New Orleans Dixieland jazz
1920/ 30s
Swing /
Big band jazz
1970+
Jazz Fusion + more
Further listening: To develop your listening skills, listen to more Jazz music!
Share what you have listened to on your google classroom
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