Jazz is described as a form of musical
improvisation that combines both organization and spontaneity. It is the spontaneous
improvisation that separates it from traditional Western music, which is written down in notation as carefully as possible, in order to make sure that it is performed as closely to the composer's intentions as possible. This paper provides a definition of jazz before exploring the origins of this musical genre. The paper examines what makes certain music be regarded as jazz and explores the
influence of jazz on other music. Paper Outline: Introduction The Origins of Jazz What Makes it Jazz? The Influence of Jazz Conclusion Bibliography