Jazz

Women have shaped jazz from the very beginning—on the mic, at the piano, and behind the bandstand.

Nina Simone, born in 1933 in Tryon, North Carolina, was a multifaceted artist whose blend of jazz, blues, classical, and soul genres created a unique style all her own.

One of the most frequent questions is how jazz musicians know when to play. The answer lies in a deep understanding of form, feel, and listening.

Blues guitarist and singer Wes Mackey was born December 12, 1942, in the Big State community near Yemassee, South Carolina.

Radio has played a pivotal role in spreading the sound of jazz across America and around the world.

During the Jazz Age of the 1920s and ’30s, South Carolina played a key yet often overlooked role in shaping the sound and spirit of American jazz.

Gospel Music has had a profound influence on jazz. From the church pews to the bandstands, gospel has shaped jazz's emotional depth, phrasing, and spirit since its earliest days.

There are several common song forms in jazz — the structures that shape the music we love.

Scat singing is one of jazz’s most joyful expressions. The term scat is vocal improvisation where singers use nonsense syllables instead of lyrics, turning their voice into an instrument.

In the early 20th century, jazz’s syncopated rhythms and improvisational flair began weaving into classical composition.