Jazz is a style of music that originated in the United States in the early 20th century, mainly among African American communities in New Orleans. It blends influences from blues, ragtime, and African rhythms with Western harmony and orchestration.
What makes jazz unique is improvisation — musicians often create and vary melodies spontaneously, responding to each other as they play. It also features syncopated rhythms, rich harmonies, and a strong sense of personal expression and freedom.