Jazz dance is a step lower than ballet or Modern Dance.When the slaves were brought to America they brought their dances with them. Jazz dance started with the Folk dances of the African people who had a dance for every part of their lives. It was first started in New Orleans, Memphis, St. Louis, and Kansas City. The origins were in the end of the 19th century. Some characteristics are bent knees, different movement of body parts, and entire body to express movement. Jazz focuses on body movement. Until recently jazz dancers had little instructions. Many of the good dancers could not perform in theaters because they were black. Jazz has always been performed to enjoy the movement and rhythm. It is the soul purpose.
In jazz you are supposed to wear jazz shoes. They are shoes that are leather and black. They can be slip on or shoes that you tie. You should get shoes with soft leather and soles made of rube or suede. Costumes are based on whatever the dance is or to jazz practice you can wear jazz pants with a black leotard. Famous jazz dancers are Paula Abdul, Debbie Allen, and Alvin Ailey.