11 best european jazz

European jazz is a dynamic and diverse musical genre that has a rich history and has made significant contributions to the global jazz scene. Here is some information about European jazz related to its history, notable musicians, and books on the subject:

1. Historical Overview: European jazz has its roots in the early 20th century and developed alongside American jazz. It began to gain popularity in Europe in the 1920s and 1930s. During World War II, American jazz musicians often found themselves in Europe, which further influenced the local jazz scenes. The post-war period saw a proliferation of jazz clubs and festivals across Europe, contributing to the genre's growth.

2. European Jazz Styles: European jazz is characterized by its fusion of traditional European music and jazz elements.Various countries have developed their own unique jazz styles, blending local musical traditions with American jazz. For example, French jazz often incorporates chanson and gypsy jazz elements, while Scandinavian jazz may draw from folk music.

3. Notable European Jazz Musicians: Several European jazz musicians have made a significant impact on the genre. Here are a few notable figures:

   • Django Reinhardt (Belgium/France): A pioneering figure in the development of gypsy jazz and one of the greatest jazz guitarists of all time.
   • Jan Garbarek (Norway): Known for his distinctive saxophone playing, Garbarek is a prominent figure in European jazz.
   • Esperanza Spalding (United States): Though American by birth, Spalding's work with European musicians and influence on the European jazz scene is noteworthy.
   • Tord Gustavsen (Norway): A pianist known for his work in the ECM Records stable, creating a minimalist, contemplative style of jazz.

4. Books on European Jazz: There are several books that delve into the history and development of European jazz. Some notable titles include:

   • "European Jazz" by Francesco Martinelli: This book offers an extensive historical overview of European jazz, covering its evolution and the impact of cultural, social, and political factors.
   • "Gypsy Jazz: In Search of Django Reinhardt and the Soul of Gypsy Swing" by Michael Dregni: While focusing on Django Reinhardt, this book also provides insights into the development of gypsy jazz, a distinctly European jazz style.
   • "Nordic Jazz" by Erik Moseholm: This book explores the history and development of jazz in the Nordic countries, shedding light on the unique contributions of Scandinavian jazz musicians.

European jazz continues to evolve and remains an integral part of the global jazz landscape, reflecting the cultural diversity and creativity of the continent.