Song of European immigrants

Gershwin was entrusted to write rhapsody in blue by paul whiteman, who was called "the king of jazz". Whiteman is eight years older than Gershwin, and they have a good friendship. Whiteman was born in orthodox music, but later devoted himself to the development of jazz.

At the beginning of the 20th century, a kind of music became popular in new york. This kind of music has a unique style, absorbing the musical elements of Jews, blacks, European immigrants and American folk songs, and further influencing the comedy performance on Broadway.

Americans have great enthusiasm for Broadway shows. Because this style can actually be said to be a real "American product" with American style, Americans still lack symphonies written in "American language", so Americans have been waiting for a symphony with American style, even an orchestra or concerto.

In Whiteman's mind, jazz is a great product that the United States can be proud of. He always wanted to create "symphonic jazz", but he never got it. The bigger the orchestra, although it can create a huge sound and lively atmosphere, there is still a long way to go to become a "symphony".