Which musical features are commonly associated with jazz?

Jazz is a complex and evolving musical form that defies a single, all-encompassing definition, as its characteristics have shifted significantly across its history. However, several features are commonly associated with the genre:1

• Improvisation: While not present in every instance, improvisation is a hallmark of jazz, allowing performers to act as creative, improvising composers.213
• Rhythmic Complexity: Jazz often features syncopated rhythms, which involve displacing regular accents to create a forward-driving momentum.24
• Harmonic Structure: The music frequently employs complex chord changes, including the use of 9th, 11th, and 13th chords, and various substitute harmonizations.56
• Instrumentation and Timbre: Jazz is characterized by unique instrumental sounds and timbres, often utilizing brass mutes, glissandos, and specific inflections. Common instruments include the piano, double bass, trumpet, saxophone, trombone, clarinet, and drums.17
• Ensemble Interaction: Jazz is fundamentally communal, often involving polyphonic ensemble playing and musical dialogue between performers.215

These elements combine to give jazz its distinct identity, though the specific application of these features varies widely between styles like New Orleans style, swing, and free jazz.1