George Gershwin

PROGRAMME

George Gershwin (1898–1937)
- An American in Paris (1928): Tone poem for orchestra, chamber ensemble version by Ian Farrington
- Rhapsody in Blue: Version for chamber orchestra by Tim Behrens
- Songs: Arranged for ensemble by Michael Wilhelmi

JEWISH


From the streets of New York to the world’s greatest stages: George Gershwin, the son of Jewish-Russian immigrants, became one of America’s most influential voices. With his unmistakable blend of jazz, blues and classical music, he created a sound that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Together with his brother Ira, he created timeless songs and Broadway hits that capture the spirit of an entire era and speak of longing, energy and joie de vivre.

TODAY

What does Gershwin sound like in the 21st century? Surprisingly fresh, rousing and more relevant than ever. In new orchestral arrangements, his most famous melodies meet the voices of two extraordinary singers. Classics such as ‘The Man I Love’, ‘Fascinating Rhythm’ and ‘Embraceable You’ take on new hues – somewhere between a jazz club, a concert hall and a big-city night. A concert evening that makes the familiar sound fresh again.

FOR EVERYONE

Gershwin wrote music for people, not for pigeonholes. He broke down barriers between high culture and popular entertainment, between the concert hall and the dance floor, and between different musical traditions. To mark the 90th anniversary of his death, we are celebrating an artist whose work is characterised by openness, cultural diversity and creative curiosity. Following the sold-out ‘Jewish Jazz’ concerts, we invite you to rediscover a composer whose music continues to unite, move and inspire to this day.

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Robert Brembeck

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Robert Brembeck

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Robert Brembeck

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