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Article: Gershwin's Rhapsody: Perfect Pitch? Commercializing a Classic to Sell United's Friendly Skies
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- November 25, 1987
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
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"Rhapsody in Blue" has become a rhapsody in bucks.
Fifty years after the death of George Gershwin, America's
greatest composer, his best-known composition has been turned into a
jingle for United Airlines. It's the first time that Gershwin's
"Rhapsody in Blue" has been licensed for use in a commercial.
Those who made the commercial say they have treated "Rhapsody in
Blue" with respect, care, taste and what-have-you. Those who love
"Rhapsody in Blue" may feel differently. Gershwin's rhapsody is the
most-recorded American concert piece, and probably the best known.
It signaled a revolution in music when it was first played, with
Gershwin at the piano, in 1924.
Gershwin said later he ...