Hugues Panassié

Definition

Hugues Panassié was a French jazz critic and historian who played a significant role in the development of jazz as an art form in the mid-20th century. He was influential in promoting the idea that jazz should be appreciated not just as popular music, but as a serious artistic endeavor. His writings and advocacy contributed to the shift from viewing jazz primarily as dance music to recognizing it as a form of art music deserving of academic study and critical evaluation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Panassié founded the first jazz magazine in France called 'Jazz,' which significantly contributed to jazz literature and criticism.
2. He argued for the importance of understanding jazz's cultural roots and its evolution as an art form, emphasizing its improvisational nature.
3. Panassié was instrumental in the establishment of jazz festivals in France, helping to elevate the genre's status within the musical community.
4. His perspectives were shaped by his appreciation for early jazz musicians, and he often championed artists like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington.
5. By promoting jazz as art music, Panassié helped pave the way for later scholarly studies and academic programs focused on jazz history and performance.

Review Questions

• How did Hugues Panassié influence the perception of jazz music in the 20th century?
  • Hugues Panassié significantly influenced how jazz was perceived by advocating for it as an art form rather than merely popular dance music. Through his writings and the establishment of the first jazz magazine in France, he emphasized jazz's artistic value and cultural importance. This shift encouraged musicians and critics alike to view jazz through a more serious lens, ultimately affecting how it was taught and studied academically.
• Evaluate the impact of Panassié's contributions on the development of jazz festivals in France.
  • Panassié's contributions were pivotal in the growth of jazz festivals in France, as he was actively involved in their establishment and promotion. By advocating for jazz as an important cultural expression, he helped garner public interest and support for these events. This not only showcased talent from around the world but also reinforced the recognition of jazz as a legitimate art form, fostering appreciation among diverse audiences.
• Assess how Hugues Panassié's vision for jazz paved the way for its acceptance in academic circles as a legitimate area of study.
  • Hugues Panassié's vision transformed how jazz was understood within both popular culture and academic discourse. By articulating arguments that highlighted jazz's artistic complexity and historical significance, he laid the groundwork for its inclusion in formal education. This acceptance allowed future scholars to explore jazz's theoretical aspects, stylistic developments, and cultural contexts, ultimately leading to structured programs dedicated to studying this vibrant musical genre.

Related terms

Jazz Criticism: The analysis and evaluation of jazz music, often focusing on its cultural significance, historical context, and artistic merit.

Art Music: A term used to describe music that is composed with a focus on artistic expression rather than commercial appeal, often associated with classical music traditions.

Dixieland: A style of jazz that originated in New Orleans, characterized by collective improvisation and a lively, upbeat tempo, often seen as one of the earlier forms of jazz music.