Jazz History for Beginners

The Inspiring Story of Its Origins, Legends, Cities and How It Entertained While Integrating the Races

By: Annalisa Ewald

Narrated by: Brett Rockwood

Jazz is more than a musical genre. It is a movement, an escape, and a form of rebellion—one whose mystery you can uncover through the fascinating musicians that shaped its history.

Jazz doesn’t easily fit into any category owing to its diverse roots, incredible flexibility, and passion for improvisation. It is, therefore, ironic, yet somehow understandable, that this mysterious genre, so different even from other Black-inspired music, should be so well-loved by millions of people across the globe. The recent Oscar-winning film La La Land was no less than a love letter to jazz. Emmy-nominated producer, comedian, and actor, Jeff Garlin, recently announced that Los Angeles was on the verge of a major jazz rebirth, and celebrities like Billy Crystal, Bill Maher, and Tommy Chong are all self-confessed “hardcore jazz buffs.”

Perhaps the secret to jazz’s eternal appeal is its democratic nature. Modern jazz defies its Dixieland roots and is inherently irreverent and versatile. This musical genre embraces individuality and daringness and always has room for a new cat willing to celebrate their individuality and defy convention. Jazz also has a fascinating history and an important role in battling discrimination. Icons like Louis Armstrong, known across the globe as one of the most uplifting and talented musicians, found a form of “escape” in jazz. Music has always been a key road to freedom from segregation, but in the case of jazz, it created an entire cultural ecosystem that enabled black musicians to make a living doing the thing they most loved.

Jazz History for Beginners shares the magic of the world’s most courageous, groundbreaking genres, demystifying the myriad of styles, tonal colors, and rhythms that define jazz.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2023 Annalisa Ewald (P)2023 Annalisa Ewald

Primer on Musical Styles

In a lot of ways, this book is a tour of American history told through soulful legends of jazz. The book masterfully weaves together the musical evolution of jazz with its socio-cultural context, inviting you to dance alongside ragtime pioneers in New Orleans, witness the birth of swing in smoky Harlem clubs, and feel the pulse of civil rights movements through the improvisational spirit of the genre. I really enjoyed this book.

Exactly what I wanted

Really enjoyed this audio, i have always wanted to get a better understanding of jazz and this did the trick. Very enjoyable and a fun listen. The narrator was excellent and conveyed enthusiasm for the story unfolding.

So many things about Jazz I never knew!

This audiobook definitely got me wanting to put more jazz music into my playlists. Jazz is one of the most unique and beloved musical genres, and this audiobook dives deep into its origins, legends, and cities. I was absolutely enthralled by the author’s exploration of the music's social implications. It was truly inspiring to learn how jazz provided a form of “escape” for black musicians and created an entire cultural ecosystem that enabled them to make a living doing the thing they most loved. The narration by Brett Rockwood was exceptional, and he really conveyed enthusiasm for the story unfolding. I would definitely recommend this audiobook to jazz enthusiasts and anyone looking to gain a better understanding of one of the world’s most courageous and groundbreaking genres.

Enilightening!

Jazz is more than a music genre; this book is more than an inspiring story. This book weaves together historical accounts, musical anecdotes, and cultural context, making it accessible for novices and enthusiasts. With a rhythmic narrative that mirrors the essence of jazz itself, this book educates and immerses listeners in this genre's vibrant and transformative legacy. It's a must-listen for those seeking to understand the profound impact of jazz on music, culture, and the journey toward racial integration.

Very Pleasant and Concise Listen

Very pleasant and concise read for the beginner or seasoned Jazz fan. Don't be turned off just because the title mentions beginner, there is always something you miss or could go over again when it comes to music history. And why not learn things twice when you enjoyed it the first time? I really like how it continues to celebrate and come back to New Orleans on the Jazz geographic tour! Also goes into aspects of fusion and modern Jazz and where the music is headed in 2023 along with interesting opinions and perspectives to keep this American artwork alive and well!!
Dave Dauterive -- Host of Friday Morning Set Jazz Radio Show 90.7 WWOZ FM New Orleans

Jazz Primer

A good preliminary for the emerging jazz enthusiast. Well written and a thorough study of the social implications of the music.