Reading Comprehension Related

Review Reading Comprehension related questions and content

All That Jazz: Jazz is an American musical art form which originated at the beginning of the 20th century in African-American communities in the Southern United States. It derived from a confluence of African and European music traditions. From its early development until the present, jazz has also incorporated music from 19th and 20th century American popular music. The word jazz began as a West Coast slang term of uncertain derivation and was first used to refer to music in Chicago in about 1915.
Improvisation is one of the key elements of jazz and a fundamental part of the nature of the music. In jazz, the skilled performer will interpret a tune in very individual ways, never playing the same composition exactly the same way twice. Depending upon the performer's mood and personal experience, interactions with fellow musicians, or even members of the audience, a jazz musician/performer may alter melodies, harmonies, or time signatures at will.

What makes jazz a different sort of music?

  • A. Improvisation of the theme.
  • B. Rhythmic variations by combo members.
  • C. Rigid interpretation of the written score.
  • D. Interaction with the audience.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Improvisation of the theme. Jazz is distinguished by its emphasis on improvisation, where performers interpret and play a tune in unique ways each time. This constant creativity and spontaneity set jazz apart from other music genres. Rhythmic variations by combo members (B) are related to improvisation but not the defining characteristic of jazz. Rigid interpretation of the written score (C) goes against the essence of jazz, which thrives on freedom and individual expression. While interaction with the audience (D) is common in jazz performances, it is not what fundamentally makes jazz a different sort of music.