Take five

Definition

'Take five' is a musical term that refers to a specific piece composed by Dave Brubeck, known for its distinctive 5/4 time signature. This unique rhythmic structure sets it apart from the more common 4/4 time signature used in much of jazz and popular music, showcasing the innovation and creativity associated with both bebop and cool jazz. The composition exemplifies how these jazz movements challenged traditional forms and explored new boundaries in rhythm and melody.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Take Five' was released in 1959 on the album 'Time Out', which was one of the first jazz albums to achieve significant commercial success.
2. The piece became immensely popular and has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, contributing to its status as a jazz standard.
3. 'Take Five' showcases improvisation, allowing musicians to explore melodies within its unique rhythmic framework.
4. Brubeck's use of unusual time signatures, such as the 5/4 in 'Take Five', helped to expand the vocabulary of jazz, influencing future generations of musicians.
5. The iconic saxophone melody in 'Take Five', played by Paul Desmond, is one of the most recognizable themes in jazz music.

Review Questions

• How does the 5/4 time signature in 'Take Five' contribute to its overall feel compared to more common time signatures?
  • 'Take Five' uses a 5/4 time signature, which creates an uneven and distinctive rhythmic feel that sets it apart from songs in 4/4 time. This unusual structure allows for creative phrasing and can give listeners a sense of surprise as the rhythm shifts. The 5/4 signature invites musicians to experiment with their improvisations, making each performance unique while maintaining the song's recognizable melody.
• Discuss the impact of Dave Brubeck's 'Take Five' on the evolution of jazz music, particularly in relation to bebop and cool jazz.
  • 'Take Five' played a pivotal role in showcasing how innovative rhythms could be integrated into jazz, especially within the cool jazz movement. By employing an uncommon time signature, Brubeck challenged traditional rhythmic conventions found in bebop. This willingness to experiment not only solidified Brubeck’s status as a leading figure in cool jazz but also inspired countless musicians to push boundaries and explore new musical territories.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of 'Take Five' in the context of its release era and how it influenced both jazz and popular music.
  • 'Take Five' emerged during a period when jazz was transitioning into mainstream culture. Its success paved the way for more complex musical forms to be embraced by wider audiences. The blending of sophisticated rhythms with accessible melodies allowed 'Take Five' to resonate beyond just jazz enthusiasts, influencing popular music as well. This cultural crossover helped establish a new appreciation for jazz's artistic potential and encouraged artists across genres to incorporate elements of jazz into their work.

Related terms

Dave Brubeck: An American jazz pianist and composer known for his influential works in cool jazz, particularly the classic 'Take Five'.

5/4 Time Signature: A rhythmic pattern where each measure contains five beats, creating an uneven yet engaging feel that is characteristic of 'Take Five'.

Cool Jazz: A style of jazz that emerged in the late 1940s, characterized by a relaxed tempo, smoother sound, and intricate arrangements.