Third stream

Definition

Third stream refers to a musical genre that blends elements of classical music with jazz, creating a unique and innovative sound. This genre emerged in the mid-20th century as musicians sought to bridge the gap between the improvisational nature of jazz and the structured formality of classical music, resulting in a cross-genre experimentation that expanded the boundaries of both styles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'third stream' was coined by composer Gunther Schuller in 1957 to describe this fusion of jazz and classical music.
2. Third stream music often incorporates complex harmonic structures and orchestrations typical of classical music while maintaining the improvisational aspect of jazz.
3. Key figures in the development of third stream include musicians like Gunther Schuller, George Russell, and Claude Bolling.
4. The genre gained popularity during the 1960s as artists began to explore new ways to combine these musical traditions in concert performances and recordings.
5. Third stream has influenced various contemporary genres, inspiring a generation of musicians who continue to experiment with blending classical elements with other styles.

Review Questions

• How does third stream illustrate the concept of fusion in music, and what are its key characteristics?
  • Third stream exemplifies fusion by combining jazz's improvisational style with classical music's structured formality. Key characteristics include the use of orchestral arrangements typical of classical compositions while allowing for jazz improvisation. This genre showcases how musicians can creatively merge different musical traditions to create something entirely new, highlighting their versatility and artistic exploration.
• Discuss the impact of Gunther Schuller on the development of third stream and how his ideas shaped its evolution.
  • Gunther Schuller played a pivotal role in developing third stream, having coined the term in 1957. His vision for a new musical language that fused jazz and classical elements significantly shaped its evolution. Schuller not only composed works within this genre but also promoted it through performances and teaching, influencing many musicians to explore this innovative approach to music.
• Evaluate the significance of third stream in the broader context of 20th-century music and its influence on contemporary genres.
  • Third stream holds significant importance in 20th-century music as it challenged traditional boundaries between genres, promoting a culture of experimentation and cross-genre collaboration. Its influence can be seen in contemporary genres like progressive rock, fusion, and even some modern pop, where artists increasingly blend diverse musical elements. This genre not only paved the way for future innovations but also encouraged musicians to think outside conventional frameworks, enriching the overall landscape of modern music.

Related terms

Jazz: A genre of music characterized by swing and blue notes, call and response vocals, polyrhythms, and improvisation.

Classical Music: A long-standing tradition of art music that is rooted in Western culture, spanning from the Medieval period to the present day, often featuring orchestras and formal compositions.

Crossover: The blending of different musical styles or genres, which can result in new forms and attract audiences from various musical backgrounds.