"Rhapsody in Blue: A Century of Controversy"

George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" premiered 100 years ago and continues to enchant audiences, but its legacy and unfulfilled promise are being reconsidered. While the piece is widely celebrated, it has also been criticized for not fully delivering on its bold proposal to fuse African American ragtime and blues into a virtuoso concerto. The work's reception history and impact on American music are examined, with some arguing that it has hindered the exploration of new possibilities. Despite its flaws, "Rhapsody in Blue" remains a beloved classic that reflects the nation's complex relationship with African American music and technique.