Gershwin’s Captivating Rhapsody: A Musical Journey – Newspaper

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s iconic composition, Rhapsody in Blue, the University of Plymouth’s Musica Viva concert series recently hosted a special celebration concert. The event featured the London Gershwin Players, conducted by the talented Mark Forkgen, in an all-Gershwin programme that included classics like A Porgy and Bess Fantasy and An American in Paris.

What set this concert apart was the decision to perform the original Paul Whiteman Band version of Rhapsody in Blue, rather than the more commonly heard 1942 symphonic orchestration. This version captured the essence of Gershwin’s 1924 original with its dynamic and jazzier orchestration, showcasing the playful and incisive nature of the composition.

George Gershwin, known for blending jazz and classical elements in his compositions, had a unique melodic gift that brought joy and optimism to his audiences. His musical journey began with exposure to classical and popular music in New York, where his parents bought him a piano at a young age. Gershwin’s early career saw him composing hit songs for Broadway shows, with his brother Ira as the lyricist for many of his works.

Throughout his career, Gershwin continued to push boundaries by melding classical music with jazz, creating timeless pieces like Porgy and Bess, Rhapsody in Blue, and An American in Paris. His magnetic personality and enthusiasm for his work endeared him to many, and his compositions continue to be celebrated and performed worldwide.

The original version of Rhapsody in Blue, performed at the Musica Viva concert, highlighted Gershwin’s innovative approach to music and his ability to seamlessly blend different styles. As we mark the centenary of this groundbreaking masterpiece, we are reminded of Gershwin’s enduring legacy and his contributions to the world of music.