A style of music pioneered by Ornette Coleman in the late 1950s that eschewed Western harmony and rhythm in favor of greater freedom of self-expression.

Any form of jazz that uses free improvisation

Same as above but in a jazz shell. Often raucous, high-end passion.

A jazz style in which performers improvise without restrictions as to melody, harmony, or other musical elements.

a style of the early and middle sixties, involving 'free' playing and a vehement affect. It was originally associated with black cultural nationalism. Sometimes two drummers and/or two bass players were used. Some free jazz was profound, and some not very good. Some who played it later denounced it, but the style became an ingredient in future styles and still has many proponents despite its lack of general popularity.