Social Considerations

-White and african-american contribute to style

-Spawns a movment in jazz, not called avant grade

-Freedom from music tied to slavery

Musical Characteristics

-Generally pieces are based upon a concept, but no chord changes or form is agreed upon

-Rejection of the notion of "Tune" although there is sometimes a melody

-Musicians are free to act, react or interact with ensemble

-No prodetermined roles

-No piano or guitar because they generally play chords, therefore defining harmony

-Equally difficult to play and listen to without prep

Key Artist

-Ornette Coleman