Jazz in New Orleans

Jazz emerged strongly in New Orleans for a variety of reasons. One key fact is that jazz is the product of many different cultures (and thus musical genres) coming together with the common goal of entertainment in a specific era. In the early 20^th century, culture and heritage determined a huge amount about the life someone would have. Slavery had only recently been abolished and stereotypes and racism were plentiful. As an African American, one did not have many options. Many African Americans who were part-white were freed long before the civil war and emancipation. By the time the 20^th century rolled around, these people were black of color, but distanced themselves from the Negro culture. These ‘creoles’ continued to do so post-abolition as to prevent themselves from being labeled as ‘black.,’ and to maintain certain rights. However, Louisiana legislation passed in 1894 to designate anyone of African heritage as a ‘Negro,’ thus forcing them back into the ‘black’ culture. The creoles, often well-trained musicians, were now competing with the Negros, who often lacked formal techniques but made up for it with their contemporary style. The emphasis of these two styles differ greatly. Creoles emphasized the specific notes they were playing, making the notes distinct but the tone similar. In contrast, the Negroes emphasized the way they played each separate note. For example, jazz musician Sidney Bechet once told a student to play one note, and see how many ways he could play it; to express his feelings in it. None of this, however is particular to New Orleans. The major difference and the most important factor was that in New Orleans, brass bands and string ensembles were already extremely popular. These styles were played everywhere, but in New Orleans they were played for almost every kind of social gathering. Another factor that distinguishes New Orleans as a major birthplace of jazz is the contribution of Mexican immigrants to the music. Following the performance of a Mexican military band at a cotton exposition in New Orleans in 1884, Mexican bands commonly returned there to play, some band members even staying permanently to play music for a living. These Mexican bands gave New Orleans an inspiration that not many other cities had at this time. In addition, several Mexican immigrants became prominent music teachers. One famous example is Lorenzo Tío, who had at least fifteen students go on to eventually become professional jazz artists. This is yet another source from which jazz evolved. The most important thing to take from it is that jazz is the culmination of many different styles of music. When Creoles and Negroes and Whites, inspired and taught by Mexicans, got together with brass ensembles and string bands, in a time of ragtime and blues, jazz emerged.

Commented on Ethan Reul's post at <http://ethanblogblst14.blogspot.com/>

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