Final answer:
Louis Armstrong emphasized that a musician must have precise timing and a strong rhythmic feel to play swing music effectively. These qualities are crucial for conveying the characteristic swing rhythm and for the improvisational communication between musicians.
Step-by-step explanation:
Qualities Required for Swing Music
According to Louis Armstrong, one of the most influential figures in jazz and swing music, a musician must possess precise timing and rhythmic feel to play swing effectively. This style of music relies heavily on a strong sense of swing rhythm, which is not just about playing the correct notes but also about the feel and groove that propels the music forward. Moreover, musicians need to be able to communicate with each other through their playing, improvising and responding in the moment, which requires a deep understanding of the music's structure and the ability to listen and adapt quickly.
While extensive theoretical knowledge and strong melodic skills are certainly beneficial to any musician, they are not the only qualities that define a good swing player. Armstrong did not specifically mention mastery of electronic instruments as a requirement for swing music, probably because swing traditionally thrives on acoustic instrument sounds. Therefore, the correct answer that embodies what Armstrong believed is 'a) Precise timing and rhythmic feel'.