How did jazz music change after World War II?

After World War II, jazz music underwent significant transformations, characterized particularly by a shift towards more experimental forms. This period saw the emergence of several innovative genres, including bebop, hard bop, and eventually modal jazz and free jazz. Musicians began to break away from the rigid structures and conventions of earlier styles, exploring new rhythms, harmonies, and improvisational techniques.

The avant-garde movement in jazz, led by artists like Ornette Coleman and John Coltrane, sought to redefine the boundaries of the genre, challenging both the musicians and the audience to embrace new ideals of expression and creativity. This experimentation was not just a reflection of musical taste but also of the broader cultural changes in society during and after the war, where artists were looking to express deeper emotions and thoughts stemming from the tumultuous experiences of conflict.

While it is true that jazz became more commercial and gained popularity in Europe, these developments were more nuanced and did not represent the core artistic changes that defined the post-war era. The focus on traditional styles also did exist, but it was largely overshadowed by the wave of experimentation that truly redefined jazz's trajectory during that time. Thus, the correct answer reflects the creative shift towards more experimental forms, marking a pivotal moment in jazz