Christian jazz music is a vibrant and powerful musical genre that blends the dynamics of jazz with the power of Christian faith. For some it is unimaginable to apply the musical improvisation and rhythms of jazz to an old standard of the church such as Amazing Grace or The Old Rugged Cross. However, the marriage of the meaningful words of an old hymn coupled with the personal impressions and experience of the jazz vocalist or instrumentalist provides for a vibrant expression of faith.
There are many who would wonder about the value of Christian jazz music, but it is important to note that Christian jazz music is not a new musical expression of ones faith.
There are three possible benefits of Christian jazz music. They are worship, expression of personal faith and edification of others.
Worship
Christian jazz music refers to the jazz style of Christian music that has appealed to modern-day worshipers. The component of worship is deeply embedded in the performers desire to give thanks and express their adoration to God for their talents. Christian jazz music provides a venue for the Christian performer and jazz enthusiast to meet together and express their love for God in a non-traditional, yet unified manner.
Personal Witness
Christian jazz music is also an avenue whereby aspiring singers can give a voice to their own personal testimony and experiences with accepting and practicing their faith. In performing Christian jazz music the artist can capture and express their personal walk of faith which becomes even sweeter to the ears when coupled with music.
Through the power of such music, the joys, struggles, expressions of doubt and other common bonds provides worshippers with an opportunity to share with others. The personal witness dimension also benefits the jazz performer by strengthening their Christian character which is accomplished through their willingness to be open and transparent to the audience.
Encourage Others
Through Christian jazz music the audience can be encouraged and edified. Christian jazz music provides the jazz enthusiast that favorite musical sound that couples with their Christian faith. Experiencing the joy of Christian jazz music causes the spirit to soar and expand itself beyond the frustrations of the daily routine. Joining with others who share the same faith lends itself to a rich experience in expressing their own emotions, beliefs and questions. These commonalities provide an atmosphere of encouragement by the sharing of insights and strengthening of ones faith.
