Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club: A Jazz Portrait of Gershwin
Celebrating 100 years of Rhapsody in Blue
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, led by their musical director James Pearson, present a very special concert in celebration the centenary of George Gershwin’s masterpiece, ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ – first performed in New York in February 1924.
Featuring a jazz ‘chamber orchestra’ – comprising of jazz rhythm section, augmented with violin, reed, brass, and tuned percussion – the concert showcases a sparkling selection of Gerwshin’s most popular and acclaimed work, performed across a stunning array of jazz styles.
His first hit ‘Swanee’ as Paul Whiteman would have played it; ‘The Man I Love’ a la Oscar Peterson; and ‘Lady Be Good’ as Benny Goodman as imagined by Benny Goodman!
In addition to a ‘Porgy and Bess’ medley and ‘An American in Paris’ overture, the concert will – of course – culminate with a complete version of Gershwin’s iconic ‘Rhapsody In Blue’, which has been specially arranged for this concert programme.
Expect an evening of truly world-class music, interspersed with anecdotes and stories, celebrating one of the most important and influential composers of the Twentieth Century, and the centenary of his seminal work.
‘Full-on brilliance’
The Guardian
‘Outstanding players. For poise, balance
and swing they’re a joy to listen to’
The Observer
Duration: approx. 2 hours 20 mins (incl. interval)
Hemsted Park – Centenary Hall
