Final answer:
Western swing bands took the saxophone, syncopated rhythms, and improvisational practices from jazz, reflecting the significant influence of African American musicians and the cultural exchange within music.
Step-by-step explanation:
Western swing bands incorporated several elements from jazz music. Among them were the saxophone, which added a distinctive sound and was a significant part of jazz bands. Additionally, syncopated rhythms, which originated from African musical traditions and were a staple in jazz, were adopted to create a more complex and energetic musical experience in western swing.
Lastly, western swing also embraced the improvisational practices that were a hallmark of jazz, allowing musicians to express their creativity and contribute to the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of a performance.
These adaptations highlight the ways in which western swing bands were influenced by the jazz scene and its African American roots, especially noting the cultural exchange that took place in music during that era.