The famous clarinet glissando at the beginning of Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue was not originally conceived by Gershwin but was inspired by clarinettist Ross Gorman's improvisation during a rehearsal.
Performer Biography
Paquito D'Rivera, a clarinettist, saxophonist, band leader, and composer, fled Cuba in 1981 due to the Castro regime and became a US citizen, going on to win over a dozen Grammy and Latin Grammy awards.
Cultural Impact
The clarinet glissando in Rhapsody in Blue became a musical symbol of the Roaring Twenties in New York City.
Performer Biography
Wayne Marshall, the conductor on this album, began mastering the keyboard by ear at the age of three, laying the foundation for his acclaimed career as an organist and pianist.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Before becoming a star, George Gershwin worked as a 'song plugger' in Tin Pan Alley, playing new hits to attract customers for music publishers.
Recording & Production
The WDR Funkhausorchester, named for its historic broadcasting center in Cologne, is one of Germany's most listened-to orchestras, with regular live broadcasts and recordings.
Critical Reception
At its 1924 premiere, Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue was largely met with rapturous audience reception, though some professional critics were less enthusiastic.
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