A riff in jazz is a short, repeated melodic or rhythmic figure that forms the basis of a section or the entire piece.
In more detail:
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Short and Memorable: A riff is typically a brief, catchy musical phrase. Think of it as a "hook" that's easy to remember.
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Repetitive Nature: Riffs are characterized by their repetition. This repetition can be literal or with slight variations. The repetition provides a grounding element and helps build momentum.
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Foundation of Composition: A riff can serve as the foundation for an entire jazz tune. Soloists often improvise over these repeated riffs.
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Improvisational Framework: Riffs provide a framework for improvisation. Musicians will use the riff as a harmonic and rhythmic guide for their solos.
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Texture and Groove: Riffs contribute significantly to the texture and groove of a jazz piece. They can create a sense of forward motion and excitement.
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Call and Response: Riffs are often used in "call and response" patterns between different instruments or sections of the ensemble. This creates a dynamic and engaging musical conversation.
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Example: Consider the famous jazz standard "Take Five." While perhaps not strictly a riff as generally defined due to its more extended phrase length, the recurring piano figure establishes the feel and is repeated throughout, acting in a similar function. A more succinct example might be a repeated horn phrase in a blues-based jazz piece.
In essence, a riff in jazz is a recurring musical fragment that provides a rhythmic and melodic anchor, serving as a building block for improvisation and adding to the overall texture and character of the music.
