Alfred Publishing Gershwin George - Rhapsody In Blue - Piano Solo
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Alfred Publishing
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Summary of This Score
This score offers a piano solo version of a major work in the American repertoire, originally conceived with rich and brilliant writing, driven by a dialogue between soloist and orchestra. To facilitate its dissemination, the publishers of the time obtained from the composer a first version for solo piano, in which the orchestral elements were integrated into the piano part to best restore the colors and breadth of the original version.
However, this initial adaptation proved particularly demanding pianistically. After the composer's death, several attempts at simplification were discarded until a manuscript by Herman Wasserman was selected and became the basis for this edition. Renowned pianists who examined the score noted the significant reduction in difficulty while praising the respect for the writing: the musical line remains clear, the texture stays sonorous, and the brilliance effect, essential to the work's aesthetic, is preserved.
Designed for pianists at the Early Advanced level, this edition is especially suitable for those wishing to approach a major repertoire piece without facing excessive virtuosity. Certain sections, including the well-known central Moderato, remain accessible to performers of a slightly lower level, making it an excellent choice for concert performance, stylistic study (between classical and jazz), and work on sound projection at the piano.
Technical specifications
| Musical Genre | Classical | Publication | Sheet music |
| Composer | George Gershwin | Instrumentation | Piano solo |
| Arranger | Herman Wasserman | Difficulty | Early Advanced |
Questions frequently asked
What level is required to play Rhapsody in Blue as a solo piano piece?
The edition is indicated for an Early Advanced level, with reduced difficulty compared to the original solo piano adaptation.
Is this version of Rhapsody in Blue simplified?
Herman Wasserman's arrangement significantly reduces the pianistic difficulties. However, the writing retains the sonic texture and brilliance characteristic of the work.
Who arranged this score?
The published version is based on a manuscript by Herman Wasserman, selected after George Gershwin's death. It incorporates elements originally intended for orchestra into the piano part.
Is the Moderato passage of Rhapsody in Blue accessible?
The central Moderato is presented as accessible to pianists of a slightly lower level than Early Advanced. This section allows for tackling a well-known passage of the work without requiring the same virtuosity as the entire score. Sound projection and the style blending classical and jazz remain central to the interpretation.
Is the Alfred Publishing Gershwin George - Rhapsody In Blue score intended for solo piano?
This edition is written for solo piano. The piano part captures the colors and breadth of the original version designed for soloist and orchestra.
