A jazz musician is someone who performs or composes jazz music, which is a type of music that originated in the early twentieth century. This musical genre has a distinct sound, though a precise definition can be difficult to come by. Jazz incorporates elements of other musical genres such as blues and ragtime, and a jazz musician is likely to be well-versed in and skilled at playing these styles. A jazz singer or a musician who plays a musical instrument could be the musician.
A person is generally considered a professional if he or she makes a living playing music. Professional musicians frequently travel around the world or to specific regions of the world to spread their music, promote an album, or simply perform for a living. Other musicians may do so as a pastime. The ability to play this genre of music is the most important criterion for becoming a jazz musician, regardless of whether the musician makes a living from it.
A jazz musician is not uncommon to form a band with other musicians. Each band member will sing or play an instrument, and all of the musicians will work together to create a distinct sound. Playing together necessitates a great deal of skill and practice, even more so than playing alone, because timing is crucial to achieving a high-quality sound. A jazz band or group can have two or more members; vocalists and drummers are usually included in the mix. Guitarists, bassists, pianists, saxophonists, trumpeters, and other musicians can all join the band.
Over time, subgenres of jazz have emerged; nu-jazz and acid jazz combine modern elements such as synthesizers with more traditional sounds to create an entirely new jazz sound. Smooth jazz is a mellow style of jazz that provides listeners with soothing sounds. Jazzcore, on the other hand, incorporates elements of both jazz and heavy metal music. Punk jazz is a hybrid of jazz and punk rock music that produces a heavier, more frenetic sound. It is the polar opposite of smooth jazz, though it is lively like some traditional jazz styles.