A Rhapsody in Blue to Ring in the Weekend

     

     Enjoyed by all, the Rhapsody in Blue by the great composer, George Gershwin, was one of his most famous and thrilling compositions. This fantastic jazz masterpiece was said to be composed by Gershwin in less than five weeks! The virtuosity of the piano accompanied by the exhilarating sound of the orchestra truly works together to create a fantastical performance to be enjoyed by audiences of any age. Many of my piano teachers and orchestra conductors have stated that Gershwin's inspiration and muse of sorts were the quintessential elements of American culture. However, many musicologists (as do I) believe that this piece is indeed the anthem and musical soul of New York City. The piece certainly incorporates various motifs of the hustle and bustle of the beautifully chaotic city. This composition is definitely no stranger to the world of popular culture. You might recognize the famous main theme of the Rhapsody in Blue from United Airlines' signature in-flight videos and TV advertisements. It is also no surprise that this piece was used in the Great Gatsby (2013)--queuing the grandiose beginning of the piece at the moment when Jay Gatsby (Leonardo Dicaprio) is shown at his flamboyant house party truly makes a magnificent statement. This is another incredible work of art that proves classical music is far from being dull and monotonous. 

I would suggest to grab a drink and some snacks, get your homework out, and let the energizing melodies of the Rhapsody in Blue motivate you through your study session!

Let me know how you enjoyed the piece in the comments below!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! 

A Story Without Words: Ballade in G minor

     During my years of being a piano student a very dear music teacher once told me, “music is a reflection of our deepest and most genuine emotions, therefore, music does not have the capacity to lie.”  Frederic Chopin's "Ballade in G minor" not only symbolizes the turbulent events of Poland's fight towards nationalism, but also epitomizes the very aspect of the human condition, mirroring the raw emotion's of one's life into the black and white notes of a transcendent composition, highlighting that life is simultaneously tragic and joyous.
     
     The title of this piece, “Ballade” has a significant meaning to the overall structure and context of the piece.  The derivation of the word ballade originates from the Old French word balada, meaning dance or dance song.  By the fourteenth century, the word ballad developed into the definition of a narrative text accompanied by song.  The program of a ballade is interpreted as a protagonist’s legendary odyssey through violent affairs of mankind, set in a quasi-supernatural setting, and ending in utter tragedy.

     The Ballade’s eternal theme of the human mind’s continuous battle to overcome the boundaries of existence and free oneself from the utter pain and grief that taints one’s spirit is an unending characteristic that resides within each individual’s soul. By animating and communicating these everlasting human characteristics, Chopin left an imperishable work of art for performers and listeners to deeply reflect and reminisce about their lives, allowing them to relive those moments through the medium of music.  With a beautiful mind and a courageous heart, Chopin captured and illustrated the vast emotions of humanity, gave the heartbroken country of Poland a voice within each hauntingly mournful melody, and unveiled the tragedies and miracles of life.

Hope you enjoy my favorite performance of this monumental piece by Krystian Zimmerman!