Gender and identity in jazz

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The 14th Darmstadt Jazzforum in October 2015 explored various aspects of identity in jazz, including the perception of female instrumentalists, notions of "male" versus "female" sound, homosexuality, and the denial of erotic elements in music. Discussions included figures like Jutta Hipp, Ivy Benson, Clare Fischer, and Sun Ra. Participants reflected on jazz history while confidently addressing contemporary issues, focusing on overcoming common prejudices and articulating the gender discourse of the 21st century. It is evident that reducing jazz musicians to singular aspects of their identity—such as gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity—can distort the understanding of their artistry. Conversely, neglecting these facets in both historical and modern contexts is equally problematic. This publication aims to contribute to an ongoing discourse that remains vital in our evolving world, highlighting the importance of recognizing the complex identities within the jazz community.