Questions and Answers
What were the two distinct sources that influenced Fletcher Henderson's band?
Louis Armstrong and Paul Whitman Band
What years were the most popular for jazz referred to as the Swing Years?
1935-1945
Describe the instrumentation of the early jazz big band.
3-5 saxophones, 2-4 trumpets, 2-4 trombones
How did the big band swing rhythm section change in instrumentation and style?
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How did the written arrangements accommodate improvising soloists?
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How did the Kansas City big band approach contrast with the Fletcher Henderson/New York style?
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What were John Hammond's and Benny Goodman's roles in the popularity of big band swing music?
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How did specific players in Duke Ellington's orchestra affect his arranging style?
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What is it about Duke Ellington's writing style that brings him the designation of a great colorist in jazz?
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What is the orchestrational technique most associated with the Glenn Miller Orchestra?
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What was Tommy Dorsey's contribution to the development of jazz trombone?
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Study Notes
Influences on Fletcher Henderson's Band
- Louis Armstrong introduced a hot, swinging style with a relaxed rhythm and exuberance.
- The Paul Whiteman Band also significantly influenced Henderson's band.
Swing Years
- The most popular years for jazz known as the Swing Years spanned from 1935 to 1945.
Early Jazz Big Band Instrumentation
- Early big bands typically consisted of 3-5 saxophones, 2-4 trumpets, and 2-4 trombones.
- Don Redman utilized "pitting" technique in arrangements, creating call and response between saxophones and brass.
Changes in Big Band Rhythm Section
- Banjo or tuba were initially favored for their loudness and good recording quality.
- The 1930s saw a shift towards softer sounds with guitars, along with the inclusion of hi-hat or sock cymbals for a steady rhythm.
Accommodating Improvisation in Arrangements
- Written arrangements allowed for balanced solo space, with solos carefully tailored to fit each instrument.
Kansas City vs. Fletcher Henderson Style
- Kansas City bands emphasized individual solos and were less formally trained.
- Use of riff charts allowed for spontaneous and rhythmically interesting arrangements.
Roles of John Hammond and Benny Goodman
- John Hammond and Benny Goodman were pivotal in popularizing big band swing, emphasizing diversity in their band.
Influence of Specific Players in Duke Ellington's Orchestra
- Trumpeter James "Bubber" Miley contributed distinctive growl effects to Ellington's sound.
- The trombone section, featuring Lawrence, Sam, and Juan, influenced Ellington's arrangements.
Duke Ellington's Writing Style
- Known as a "colorist," Ellington used unconventional instrument combinations to create exotic soundscapes.
Orchestration Technique of Glenn Miller Orchestra
- The clarinet was typically featured as the lead instrument, subsequently supported by saxophones.
Tommy Dorsey's Impact on Jazz Trombone
- Dorsey elevated the trombone as a solo instrument and significantly influenced Frank Sinatra's phrasing and sound.
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Description
Explore the influential aspects of big bands and the Swing Era through these flashcards. Understand the key figures like Fletcher Henderson and Louis Armstrong, and learn about the Jazz years that defined the genre. Test your knowledge on the instrumentation and history of this exciting period in music.
