How to Build a Jazz CD Collection

Jazz is the quintessential American music form. For the novice who has spent their money and time in other styles of music, the task of building a new jazz collection can be daunting. The history of jazz is rich, its forms many and the air of snobbish "hipness" associated with the style is intimidating. This basic approach to beginning a jazz CD collection should help start you on your way to "hep cat" status.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A local library with a good music section
• A CD burner
• An appreciation for jazz music

1. Read up on the history of jazz and decide which forms interest you the most. Jazz forms include Ragtime, Dixieland, Boogie, Bebop, Cool, Free and Swing to name a few. There are also regional divisions including Chicago, New Orleans, Kansas City and West Coast.

2. Go to your library and see what they offer. Many libraries carry large jazz selections of all styles and forms. Listen to samples from each.

3. Choose a few discs from each style that interests you and copy them with a CD burner.

4. Continue with this approach until you can distinguish which artists and styles are your favorites. Decide which instruments you prefer.

5. Listen to jazz constantly until it is second nature to you. It provides a great soundtrack to a hip life. You will begin to branch out and appreciate all styles.

Tips & Warnings

• Beginning with the undisputed masters is a good start. Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Dave Brubeck, Chet Baker, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Scott Joplin, Benny Goodman and Thelonius Monk are all good initiations.
• With the low price of blank compact discs, experimenting will not be a burden on your wallet.
• Learn your jazz history. It will foment your appreciation.