Instruments Used in Jazz | Featuring Some Lesser-Known Ones Too!
Jazz has been loved for many years.
Even if you don’t know much about it, many people probably find themselves listening to jazz without thinking, right?
This feature is for those listeners, highlighting the instruments used in jazz.
We’ve selected instruments that appear in a variety of lineups—whether big bands, trios, quartets, or quintets.
It’s recommended for anyone who wants to get a basic overview of jazz instruments for now.
We’ll also introduce some lesser-known instruments in the latter half, so please relax and enjoy it to the very end!
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Instruments Used in Jazz | Lesser-Known Instruments Also Featured! (1–10)
electric guitar
When people think of electric guitars, many associate them with rock, but in fact they’re actively used in jazz settings as well.
In rock, electric guitars are usually heavily distorted, whereas in jazz they typically use little distortion and aim for a clean sound.
Another difference is that in rock the electric guitar often takes the spotlight—sometimes even called a second vocalist—while in jazz it more often plays a role similar to the rhythm section.
flute
The flute is an instrument known for its beautiful, memorable melodies.
When people hear “flute,” many might think of classical music, right? In fact, while it’s not the most common instrument, the flute is used quite often in jazz.
Rather than in traditional, straight-ahead jazz, it tends to appear more in funk-influenced jazz and smooth jazz.
Its light, graceful melodies and distinctive tone can lift your spirits just by listening.
electric bass
When people think of jazz bass, many probably picture the double bass.
It’s true that the atmosphere a double bass creates is unique—just hearing that warm, booming melody can draw you in instantly.
But the electric bass holds its own, too.
In jazz, the electric bass is often used in genres like smooth jazz and the recently popular electro swing.
Unlike rock, you get a bass with a strong, well-defined core to its sound, so if you love low frequencies, definitely give jazz electric bass a listen.
Instruments Used in Jazz | Lesser-Known Ones Included! (11–20)
soprano saxophone
The soprano saxophone, with its distinctive and memorable sound, is one of the saxophones specialized for the higher register, capable of playing even higher than the alto sax.
The soprano sax not only carries the sultry character typical of the saxophone, but also conveys a refreshing atmosphere.
Because of this, it’s frequently used in genres that blend pop and AOR with smooth jazz.
It’s not an excessively piercing instrument, so it doesn’t cause listening fatigue.
And when you want to relax, why not refresh yourself by listening to some tenor sax jazz?
vibraphone
When it comes to the most approachable jazz instrument for Japanese people, wouldn’t it be the vibraphone? That said, some might be thinking, “Vibraphone? Never heard of such an instrument.” In Japan, it’s more commonly known as the tetsukin (metalophone).
Many of us encountered the vibraphone at school, but in fact it’s an instrument frequently used in jazz.
It especially gives the impression of being featured in funky jazz.
If you’d like to hear top-tier performances—on a whole different level from the vibraphone we’re familiar with—played in a jazz setting, this is a must-check!
baritone saxophone
Even when we say “jazz,” its styles are incredibly diverse.
There’s everything from light and romantic smooth jazz to the passionate sounds of Latin jazz.
If you’re the type who loves gritty, cool tracks, be sure to check out the baritone sax in jazz.
Specializing in the low register, the baritone sax offers a mature allure you won’t get from the more common alto sax.
double bass
When people think of jazz, many probably picture brass instruments like the trumpet or alto sax first.
Of course, brass instruments are indispensable and play a very important role in creating the jazz vibe.
But there’s another instrument that’s quintessentially jazz: the double bass—often called the upright or “wood” bass.
In jazz, it’s often played not with a bow, but by plucking the strings with the fingers.
While this playing style isn’t exclusive to jazz, it instantly evokes a jazz atmosphere.
So if you want to discover songs that really say “this is jazz!”, try looking into the double bass.