Simply because as a form of classical music, jazz served as a model for other types of music and forms of entertainment; its influence is internationally recognized on all continents. Jazz is American classical music because it is both a way of spontaneously composing music and a repertoire resulting from the musical language developed by improvising artists. Although it is fun to play, jazz is a very serious art. It expresses American ideals and attitudes toward Americans and toward people of other cultures around the world, which is why it is studied, analyzed, documented, and imitated. Important jazz musicians who helped influence jazz include: Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk and many others, just to name a few. Louis Armstrong is undoubtedly one of the most important figures in the history of jazz. He was an incredibly influential trumpeter and singer from New Orleans, recognized as one of the greatest musicians of all time for playing a major role in modern jazz. He is also remembered for creating solo events with jazz musical instruments. He also popularized scat singing. His singing influenced other great artists such as Frank Sinatra, Miles Gillespie and many more. His influence on music is immeasurable. Duke is another artist who is a huge icon of jazz music.