What has Rhapsody in Blue been used in?
The piece is used by United Airlines in their advertisements, in pre-flight safety videos, and in the Terminal 1 underground walkway at O’Hare International Airport. Rhapsody in Blue was used extensively throughout the 2013 film The Great Gatsby.
Why is Rhapsody in Blue so popular?
The rhapsody is one of Gershwin’s most recognizable creations and a key composition that defined the Jazz Age. Gershwin’s piece inaugurated a new era in America’s musical history, established Gershwin’s reputation as an eminent composer, and eventually became one of the most popular of all concert works.
When was Rhapsody in Blue first performed?
February 13, 1924
“The audience packed a house that could have been sold out at twice the size,” wrote New York Times critic Olin Downes on February 13, 1924, of a concert staged the previous afternoon at the Aeolian Hall in New York City.
How many musicals are in Rhapsody in Blue?
After hearing a complete performance of Rhapsody in Blue, the class will isolate each of the five main themes and explore some common elements of each.
What word best describes Rhapsody in Blue?
Jazz rock best describes Rhapsody in Blue.
Why is rhapsody Blue controversial?
Gershwin intentionally combined musical styles from the classical and jazz worlds, creating controversy due to the African-American roots of jazz. As a result, ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ was considered a ‘symphonic jazz’ piece, a ‘hybrid’ of black and white music.
What is the mood of Rhapsody in Blue?
So Gershwin created a patchwork of exciting jazz-influenced melodies and moods for his rhapsody. From the soaring opening notes on the clarinet, to the razzle-dazzle of the brass, this is music full of excitement, swagger, and Gershwin’s love for his home.
Who commissioned Rhapsody in Blue?
Paul Whiteman
The Rhapsody in Blue (1924) established Gershwin’s reputation as a serious composer and has since become one of the most popular of all American concert works. The composition was commissioned by the bandleader Paul Whiteman.
Why did Gershwin name it Rhapsody in Blue?
Why not call the new piece Rhapsody In Blue instead, he suggested. The title would reflect the European and American influences. Also at Ira’s suggestion, George contrasted the syncopated character that dominates the tune with an expressive romantic theme the composer had previously improvised at a party.
