What is modal jazz?

Modal jazz is a style of jazz that emerged in the late 1950s and 1960s, and is characterized by a focus on the use of musical modes as the basis for improvisation and composition, rather than traditional chord progressions. This style was pioneered by influential jazz musicians such as Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Bill Evans.

One of the defining features of modal jazz is its use of modal scales, which allow for a more open and ambiguous harmonic structure compared to traditional tonal harmony. This approach gives musicians more freedom to explore different melodic and harmonic possibilities, and often results in a more contemplative and meditative sound.

Modal jazz compositions typically feature extended periods of improvisation, often based on a single modal scale or a small number of related modes. This allows for a more fluid and exploratory approach to soloing, as musicians can focus on exploring the unique tonal characteristics of each mode.

Some of the most well-known modal jazz compositions include "So What" by Miles Davis, "Impressions" by John Coltrane, and "Maiden Voyage" by Herbie Hancock. These tunes have become jazz standards and are frequently performed and recorded by musicians around the world.

Overall, modal jazz represents a significant departure from the more traditional harmonic and melodic conventions of earlier jazz styles, and has had a lasting impact on the evolution of jazz music as a whole.