George Gershwin's groundbreaking fusion of classical music and jazz, Rhapsody in Blue, is one of America's most beloved cultural icons, a symbol of the nation's melting pot self-image, its vigor, optimism, and constant reinvention.
Popular pianist and speaker Rachel Franklin celebrates this very big birthday by diving into how Gershwin conceived the work; the roles of arranger Ferde Grofé and bandleader Paul Whiteman; and the composition's myriad reincarnations since its exuberant premiere with Gershwin at the piano on February 12, 1924, as part of a concert titled “An Experiment in Modern Music."
British-born Franklin has been a featured speaker for organizations including the Library of Congress and NPR, exploring intersections among classical and jazz music, film scores, and the fine arts.
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