What to Listen For
Rhapsody in Blue is often cited as composer George Gershwin's greatest work. Some parts of the song to listen for are the opening Clarinet Glissando, sometimes coined the signature of the song. This is followed by some solo clarinet in a slightly ragtime style that persists throughout the song. The song's melody is repeated often and switches between different instruments and sections. The song is marked by sudden forceful entrances and tempo changes, as well as frequent changes in the style. Many different instruments and sections play small solos throughout the song. One particular soli to listen for is the section of runs played by the bass voices near the end of the song. It should also be noted that the song gradually builds. This is particularly recognizable in the American Airlines commercial featuring this song. |
Rhapsody in Blue. Youtube. Youtube, 20 Sept. 2013. Web. 10 Oct. 2013.
<http://youtu.be/0XYtGYrQeV4>. UNC Wind Ensemble - Rhapsody in Blue (Gershwin). By BandsatUnc. YouTube. Google,
13 Dec. 2011. Web. 15 Oct. 2013. <http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=mICHjIsVfZ4>. |
Rhapsody In Blue Sheet Music. Music Notes. Musicnotes, n.d. Web. 10 Oct. 2013.
<http://www.musicnotes.com/sheetmusic/
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<http://www.musicnotes.com/sheetmusic/
mtdFPE.asp?ppn=MN0039886&ref=google>.