HOW JAZZ MUSIC WORKS - Jazz is like a musical language. When the musicians play, it's as if they are talking to each other in jazz language. Most jazz music is based on a tune or a theme. The tune might be made up specifically or it might be based on a popular tune. A jazz group, or line-up has two parts: the rhythm section and the front line.
THE FRONT LINE - Front-line instruments are the ones that play solos during a jazz piece. They are given this name because the players usually stand in
front of the rhythm section. Front-line instruments include the clarinet, trombone and the right-hand side of a piano.
THE RHYTHM SECTION - The rhythm section is a part that keeps a steady pulse. It also plays harmonies for the front-line instrument to improvise over. Rhythm section instruments include the bass guitar, double bass, drums, and the left-hand side of the piano.
JAZZ STAR LIONEL HAMPTON - Plays drums and vibraphone (an instrument like a xylophone). Find out more about Hampton and other jazz greats at http://www.downbeatjazz.com/ "