ABSTRACT
The findings of this book reveal three trends that typify contemporary Chinese jazz. First, jazz that follows universal traditions and developments. Second, jazz that incorporates local folkloristic and regional ethnic musical elements. Third, jazz that expresses individual musical styles and approaches. The dynamics between the musicians and audiences who follow each of these trends and the mutual criticism they convey unveil multifaceted conceptions of identity, integrity, and authenticity. This concluding chapter evaluates the current trends of jazz in China. And, in terms of creativity and authenticity, it faces the basic question: What is Chinese jazz? The findings of this chapter reveal that the status of Chinese jazz is changing rapidly. Its musicians operate in the margins of China’s music industries, but they gradually integrate into the international jazz arena. This chapter further points to the significant role of jazz in China and the responsibility of its musicians. On the one hand, it reflects the shifting sounds and movement of global jazz – spreading from relative comfort zones in the West to novel territories and cultural grounds. On the other hand, this chapter shows how jazz impacts the present nature, direction, and aspiration of China’s fringe culture – from national identity to universal belonging, from collective ethos to expressions of individuality, from assimilation to creation.
