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The flute is one of the oldest known instruments, but it gets little respect. It's mostly known for schmaltzy concert recordings and one particular comedic movie reference. Luckily, the sheer virtuosic force of many jazz artists has lent a cool factor to the much-maligned instrument. Here are five of jazz's best flutists in action.

In the 1960s, European musicians began to reinvent the occasionally strident sounds of American avant-garde jazz to suit their own ideas. Norway, in particular, produced its own distinct regional aesthetic — no doubt influenced by its icy landscape.

What do chocolate pudding, smiles, gingerbread, fishing and dairy products have to do with each other? They all have lesser-known holidays dedicated to them in the month of June. Celebrate these delightfully obscure days with Jimmy Heath, Louis Armstrong and more.

For his third release, 5-time GRAMMY Award winner Billy Childs assembles an all-star quartet with trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire, bassist Scott Colley, and drummer Brian Blade on "The Winds of Change."

New music from artists features original compositions in latin, soul jazz, and a new take on funk. Let's take a look at some of the best albums of the week.

For jazz musicians, playing at the Village Vanguard is a special event. To record there is a rite of passage. How can you not bring your best stuff, knowing who brought theirs before? Here are five notable glimpses into the world's most famous jazz joint.

Ella Fitzgerald is one of the most recognized voices in jazz history. As a teen, her dream was to be a dancer, but fate had different plans for her. "Lady Ella" possessed a three-octave range, was noted for her pure tone, and is widely considered one of the finest Great American Songbook interpreters.

The summer of 1958 was the season of bossa nova. Fifty years ago, a movement of melody, harmony, lyrics, and rhythm sent a fresh wave of sound throughout Brazil.

Everyone knows the expression, "April showers bring May flowers." The beauty of flowers inspires songs of color, happiness, love, and passion, with a hint of the summer yet to come. In honor of the season, here's a small bouquet of jazz with a floral flair.

Marian McPartland, world-renowned jazz pianist and host of NPR's Piano Jazz, thought that an all-time favorite song list was impossible. Here, she offers her current Top 5: the songs and recordings that she's listening to right now.