Stephen Ververis
All That Jazz
Dr. Cornicello
December 14, 2012
The Origins of Bebop Ever since the musical style of bebop arose in the mid-1940’s, jazz musicians from all generations were influenced by its musical style and rhythm. Along with its fast tempo, bebop is also characterized by having “more complex chord progressions and melodies with a strong concentration on the rhythm section”(historyjazz.com). Although not as popular as the jazz styles that came before it, bebop still created a well-defined audience. Since bebop’s origination was not a result of a single musician or band, bebop’s formation cannot be attributed to any single musician. There are many origins of bebop that made it relevant during its time. The early formation and history of bebop consisted of how the musical form was created and the numerous reactions that were caused by its existence. The musical style of bebop is like no other jazz style. Bands were usually smaller and included different types of instruments. Some influential players of bebop music were Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Bud Powell, and Thelonious Monk. These players created the foundations of bebop and continue to influence musicians of all genres. During the 1940’s, America underwent a number of drastic experiences that would change the American economy forever. One of these occurrences of the 1940s was World War II. Beginning in 1939, World War II required the assistance of all United States citizens and left America with a massive debt. Many men were forced to ship overseas in order to aid in the wartime efforts. The great depression also left the American economy in a crisis. Both of these events led up to the ending of a musical era known as the swing era. Ending in the mid 1940s, the swing era was a musical era filled with big jazz bands and danceable music. Along with being a style of