Gershwin’s ‘Rhapsody In Blue’: An Iconic American Gem, A Century On
Unveiling the Birth of a Jazz Rhapsody
Feb. 12 is Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. That was the reason why Paul Whiteman decided to hold a concert that day in 1924.
Paul Whiteman, the King of Jazz, had a bold vision. He wanted to blend the orchestral approach with the vibrant sound of American jazz. Many thought this idea was far-fetched. Jazz was associated with small bands in speakeasy nightclubs, while orchestras were known for their grand performances in concert halls. Jazz embraced improvisation, while orchestras focused on perfecting scores. Jazz was seen as more ”black,” while orchestras were considered more “white.”
But Whiteman was not concerned with such talk. He was the king, after all. What better day to showcase his vision to the world than on Lincoln’s birthday? What better day to express his artistic aspirations? However, to bring his vision to life, he needed the best. He needed Jacob Gershowitz.
Better known as George Gershwin, this 25-year-old composer was just starting to make a name for himself in the music world. He had already written a No. 1 hit and was composing shows for the stage. But his path to success was far from certain.
Coming from a poor, Jewish-immigrant family, Gershwin’s exposure to the arts began in the Yiddish theater scene of the Lower East Side. He didn’t receive formal training until his teenage years and dropped out of school to work as a “song-plugger” for music houses. Despite these challenges, Whiteman recognized Gershwin’s unique blend of popular sensibility, classical knowledge, and strong work ethic. In the Jazz Age, a guy like Gershwin could seize the day.
During this era of rapid change, there were both progress and challenges. Prohibition led to organized crime, and cinema inspired the reemergence of the Klan. The generation that won the war felt lost. However, amidst this turmoil, Art Deco flourished, symbolizing hope for a better future. Humanity was on the move, and the best days seemed just ahead. Whiteman aimed to capture this spirit in his music, and it was a time when talents like Gershwin could shine.
In November 1923, Whiteman approached Gershwin with a proposition to write a jazz concerto for his show. Although they had previously collaborated on Broadway revues, they couldn’t reach an agreement this time. However, Gershwin soon realized that Whiteman was the king, and a king doesn’t ask but decrees.
Gershwin learned his lesson in January. He hadn’t heard from Whiteman for months, so the anticipated concert was the last thing on his mind that fateful night. While playing pool with his friend Buddy DeSylva, Gershwin discovered the shocking news in The New York Tribune. The article revealed that he was expected to perform a jazz concerto at Whiteman’s concert. Gershwin called the king the next day.
Imagine the conversation between them. Gershwin must have been astonished, but Whiteman explained that his rival, Vincent Lopez, was planning a similar concert, so he had to beat him to it. Gershwin had no choice but to comply. With little time, a concerto was impossible. Instead, they settled on a rhapsody. And so, the journey began.
During a train ride from New York to Boston, Gershwin experienced a moment of inspiration. Amidst the rhythmic noise of the train, he heard the complete construction of the rhapsody in his mind. He saw it as a musical kaleidoscope of America, representing the nation’s diversity, energy, and modernity.
Back in New York, Gershwin completed the composition in just two weeks, a seemingly insurmountable task. He initially named it “American Rhapsody,” but his brother Ira suggested “Rhapsody in Blue,” inspired by James Whistler’s paintings. With the concert approaching, the score was handed to Whiteman’s arranger, Ferde Grofé, who adapted it for the orchestra just in time for rehearsals. The stage was set for the jazz rhapsody.
Aeolian Hall was the place to be on Feb. 12, 1924. Esteemed musicians like Sousa, Stravinsky, and Rachmaninoff attended, creating an atmosphere of anticipation.
However, the concert didn’t start well. The opening numbers left the audience unimpressed, and the theater’s ventilation system malfunctioned. By the time Gershwin took the stage, the audience was sweaty and impatient. But little did they know, something extraordinary was about to unfold.
As the clarinet began with a soaring glissando, the audience realized they were in for a treat. The rhapsody, a fusion of jazz and symphony, modernity and tradition, captivated their senses. Gershwin’s improvised solos added a touch of spontaneity, and the orchestra guided them through the rhapsody’s distinct themes.
As the final notes faded away, the audience erupted in applause. The Jazz Age had found its anthem, and Whiteman had made his statement to the world. George Gershwin had left an indelible mark on music history.
One hundred years later, this story remains worth remembering.
How did Gershwin merge the complexity of classical music with the improvisation and syncopation of jazz in his jazz concerto?
The pressure on, Gershwin began composing his jazz concerto.
The creation of a jazz concerto was no small feat. Gershwin had to find a way to merge the complexity of classical music with the improvisation and syncopation of jazz. He spent months working on the piece, experimenting with different melodies and harmonies, and finding ways to showcase the talents of the orchestra and the improvisational skills of jazz musicians.
Finally, on February 12, 1924, the concert took place at Aeolian Hall in New York City. Whiteman’s orchestra, supplemented by jazz musicians including Gershwin himself on the piano, took the stage. The audience was a mix of classical music enthusiasts, jazz enthusiasts, and curious onlookers.
As the orchestra began to play, the room filled with a fusion of sounds. Classical melodies intertwined with lively jazz rhythms. Gershwin’s piano solo stole the show, with its virtuosic runs and improvised passages. The audience was captivated, and the performance was hailed as a triumph.
Whiteman’s bold vision of bringing together jazz and classical music had been realized. The jazz concerto, now known as “Rhapsody in Blue,” became a sensation. It was unlike anything people had ever heard before, and it marked a turning point in American music.
“Rhapsody in Blue” paved the way for future collaborations between jazz and classical musicians. It showed that these two seemingly opposite genres could come together to create something extraordinary. Gershwin’s composition became an iconic piece of music, and it solidified his reputation as one of the greatest American composers.
The concert on February 12, 1924, was a pivotal moment in the history of music. It was the birth of a jazz rhapsody, a groundbreaking fusion of styles that defied expectations and created something truly remarkable. And it all happened because Paul Whiteman had a bold vision and George Gershwin had the talent and creativity to bring that vision to life.
So, as we celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, let us also remember the birth of “Rhapsody in Blue” and the impact it had on American music. It remains a testament to the power of artistic vision and the enduring legacy of creativity.
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