Listening Journal #2

For my second listening journal I will be reviewing some aspects of the music from module two as it relates to important contributions to our musical society.  I feel that most early developments of music has definitely put a stamp on American Poplar Music.

The music for module #2 consisted of genres of music from the 1920's t the early 1930's. The sounds of Ragtime, Jazz and Blues quickly flourished across America. The textbook describes the movement of music of this era "catching as the small-pox". I feel that these particular genres of music brought about the concept of rhythm as well as syncopation. As I listened to the recordings for module 2, I could definitely feel the various rhythm and syncopation methods used throughout the ragtime and jazz selections. However, I must admit before reading chapter 3 I did not realize that there was a special name for this technique which is called stop time sequences. Stop time sequences can be heard when the performing band abruptly stops on a dime and allows for a performer to play a solo. The use of trumpet mutes, slides and glides also came into play for various jazz, ragtime and even early blues songs.

The "Tiger Rag" is a particular  ragtime selection that I feel has had an impact on the development of jazz and blues. Throughout the activities for module 2 I was able to listen to different variations in which Tiger Rag could be played. For example, I was able to find a recording of Tiger Rag that was performed by The Canadian Brass. What made this performance so interesting is the performers ability to perform Tiger Rag on a Tuba. When in the past I have only seen or heard the song being played with the typical banjo, trumpets piano and even clarinets. I also liked Louis Armstrong version of Tiger Rag as well.

The arise of Jazz also had an impact on Early American Popular Music. Through the readings there is a bit of controversy to where jazz originated. Some people feel that jazz is rooted in New Orleans, Chicago, Detroit and even in New York.  Needless to say no matter where people feel the birthplace of jazz originated, it still has had a significant impact among African Americans success in music. The jazz craze gave countless opportunities for black musicians to perform and showcase the musical talents. The jazz craze also opened the doors for blacks to break the barrier of dance bands and dance orchestras. Musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Noble Sissle, Eubie Blake, Bennie Moten and Fletcher Henderson assisted to close the racial divide of music.