Bebop is a style of jazz music that emerged in the 1940s, characterized by its fast tempos, complex chords, and intricate melodies. Unlike earlier jazz forms, bebop focuses on improvisation and showcases the musicians' technical skills. Key figures in this movement include Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, who pushed the boundaries of jazz with their innovative approaches. This genre often features small ensembles, typically a combo of instruments like the saxophone, trumpet, piano, bass, and drums. Bebop laid the groundwork for modern jazz, influencing countless musicians and leading to the development of other styles, such as cool jazz and hard bop.