Gershwin intended the rhapsody to fuse the respective powers of classical music and jazz.
In the article I cited above, “The Worst Masterpiece: ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ at 100,” Iverson offers an intriguing take: that “Rhapsody in Blue,” while having its charms, is just too square to merit being played as often as it is.
He believes the rhapsody isn’t truly jazzy enough, and specifically that it only lightly dwells in African-based rhythm.
But to Gershwin, the rhapsody was precisely what it needed to be.
I resolved, if possible, to kill that misconception with one sturdy blow.” So while the rhapsody certainly has its foot-tapping sections, it also sails, rests, jolts and soars.
Persons:
George Gershwin’s, tony, Paul Whiteman, Gershwin, Ethan Iverson, ” Iverson
Organizations:
Times, Aeolian
Locations:
Manhattan