Jazz originated in African American communities of New Orleans in the early twentieth century and quickly spread. Its defining features include improvisation, syncopated rhythms, blue notes, and a rhythmic feel known as swing. Early styles such as New Orleans jazz, swing, bebop, and later modal and free jazz continually reinvented the language.

The typical ensemble features a rhythm section of piano, bass, and drums supporting wind or brass soloists. Interaction among the players is constant; solos emerge from and return to collective playing. Jazz has absorbed influences from Latin America, Africa, Europe, and popular music while retaining its core emphasis on individual expression within a group.

Major figures such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane expanded both the technical and emotional range of the music. Today jazz exists as both a historical tradition and a living, evolving practice worldwide.

Listening to jazz rewards attention to spontaneous conversation among the musicians.