r 1895, other prefer 1917, which is the year that the word "jazz" seems to have become popular and that the Original Dixieland Jazz Band made the first jazz recording. However, whichever historical date is used, it is safe to say that in purely musical terms the earliest jazz represents a primitive reduction of the complexity, richness, and perfection of its African . . . and European antecedents" (Schuller 63).
In retrospect, it seems safe to conclude that the music that eventually became known as the jazz medium existed for many years as a multi faceted music. The character of this music varied depending on the geographical location and personalities involved, but it certainly took on some of the characteristics of tribal
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