The Chronicle of Jazz tells the whole story of the history and the personalities that have formed this century's most exciting music, a story rich with innovation, experimentation, controversy and emotion.

Beginning at the turn of the century, The Chronicle of Jazz charts the evolution of jazz from its roots in Africa and the southern United States to the myriad urban styles heard around the world today. The book looks closely at how jazz has influenced - and been influenced by - other musical and artistic forms. Each chronologically arranged section contains special features, on topics ranging from the individual qualities of the bass clarinet and the jazz scene in Paris to personality sketches and seminal gigs. Throughout, a clever cross-reference system points to related motifs, people or music and a complete reference section at the back of the book contains an extensive discography, a glossary, biographies, bibliography and index.

Modelled on the improvisation, interaction and rhythm of jazz itself, the book features hundreds of rare images of all kinds, from record-cover artwork to pictures of live performances, and is accompanied by an accessible and wide-ranging text which turn music into words and histories into living images. The Chronicle of Jazz is a celebration of the twentieth century's most imaginative and enduring music, and an essential work of reference for all lovers of music.

DR MERVYN COOKE is Professor of Music at the University of Nottingham.

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