“Rhapsody in Blue,” which premiered 100 years ago, is explored in The New York Times by jazz pianist and composer Ethan Iverson. Iverson considers the work’s legacy and unfulfilled promise, emphasizing its significant impact on American music but also critiquing its shortcomings in advancing the fusion of jazz and classical music.
Why it matters
- “Rhapsody in Blue” has enjoyed consistent success as one of the most frequently programmed pieces in the symphonic repertoire by an American composer, showcasing its enduring popularity and cultural significance.
- The work’s impact on American music, its integration into various mediums like movies and advertisements, and its role as both celebrated and criticized highlight its complex legacy, sparking discussions about cultural appropriation and the limitations it imposes on exploring new musical possibilities.
- The article also delves into the racial dynamics surrounding the piece, addressing concerns about the appropriation of African American music by Gershwin and the challenges it presents to serious Black musicians, prompting a critical reevaluation of its place in American music history.
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