On pages 4 and 5, Bereford presents his thesis of “Soviet ideology, [as] an expression of an alternative definition of Soviet culturedness. Jazz enthusiasts […] believed that jazz music, and the leisure practices associated with it, was a “cultured” activity that could contribute to the construction of the New Soviet Person.” I think this is a fascinating argument. As we have learned in the first few weeks, Soviet art is required to satisfy many requirements to be deemed “good.” In both the United States and Soviet Union, Jazz was something of a rebellion. It does not follow many standard meters, riffing is encouraged, and it conveys a different type of message – a source of contention. Perhaps it is because I am uncultured, but I found todays music selections much more compelling to listen to than Shostakovich (please do not haunt me Shostakovich). Are any of you in the same position? With this reflection, do you think that has something to do with Soviet interest in Jazz? I feel like many of us probably listen to music at the days end; what are we looking for in music after a long day? Do we think that is what the Soviet citizen of 1930-something was looking for?
