Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue at 100

In January 1924, George Gershwin reportedly learned from a newspaper article that he was meant to be writing a “jazz concerto” for a concert of new American music to be performed a month later by the popular dance band leader Paul Whiteman. Writing at manic pace, Gershwin composed a two-piano version, which was then orchestrated by Whiteman’s arranger. Rhapsody in Blue, with Gershwin as soloist, was a triumph and is considered a landmark in American music.

We celebrate the 100th anniversary of Rhapsody in Blue in a performance by the Shout Section Big Band, directed by Brett Dean and featuring Saint Charles native pianist Jeffrey LaDeur. The concert also will include classic tunes from the “Great American Songbook,” the most important and influential American popular songs and jazz standards from the early to mid-20th century that have stood the test of time.