An American in Paris

Definition

An American in Paris is a symphonic tone poem composed by George Gershwin in 1928 that reflects the experiences of an American expatriate in the vibrant city of Paris. The piece blends classical music with jazz influences, capturing the energy and atmosphere of the city through orchestration and thematic elements that evoke both nostalgia and exuberance. Its innovative use of rhythm and harmony showcases Gershwin's unique ability to merge diverse musical styles, making it a landmark work in 20th century American classical music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The composition premiered on December 13, 1928, at Carnegie Hall in New York City, conducted by Walter Damrosch.
2. An American in Paris is known for its lively orchestration, including a prominent use of the saxophone, which was relatively rare in classical compositions at the time.
3. The work features themes that represent different aspects of Parisian life, including a romantic interlude that reflects the protagonist's love for the city.
4. Gershwin's blending of classical forms with jazz elements in An American in Paris helped to establish a new identity for American classical music during the early 20th century.
5. The piece has been adapted into various forms, including a successful film musical in 1951 starring Gene Kelly, which further popularized Gershwin's work.

Review Questions

• How does An American in Paris reflect the cultural and musical influences of its time?
  • An American in Paris embodies the cultural fusion of classical music with jazz, which was gaining popularity in the 1920s. Gershwin's use of jazz elements within the orchestral framework showcases the dynamic interplay between these genres, illustrating the vibrant artistic landscape of America during this period. The composition captures the essence of an expatriate experience, while also symbolizing a broader acceptance of jazz within classical music circles.
• Discuss the significance of orchestration in An American in Paris and how it enhances the narrative portrayed in the piece.
  • The orchestration in An American in Paris plays a critical role in conveying the narrative of an American's experiences in Paris. Gershwin employs a rich palette of instruments, including strings, woodwinds, and brass, to evoke various scenes and emotions associated with city life. The inclusion of distinctive sounds, like the saxophone and various percussion instruments, adds layers of texture that mirror the bustling atmosphere of Paris while emphasizing the protagonist's feelings of joy and longing.
• Evaluate how An American in Paris has influenced contemporary interpretations of American classical music and its legacy within the genre.
  • An American in Paris has significantly shaped contemporary interpretations of American classical music by establishing a precedent for blending diverse musical styles. Its innovative combination of jazz elements with traditional orchestral composition paved the way for future composers to explore similar fusions. The work's lasting legacy can be seen in how modern musicians continue to draw inspiration from Gershwin's ability to create a uniquely American sound that resonates with audiences today, bridging gaps between classical and popular music traditions.

Related terms

George Gershwin: A prominent American composer and pianist known for his contributions to both classical and popular music, especially for works like Rhapsody in Blue and Porgy and Bess.

Jazz: A genre of music that originated in the African American communities of New Orleans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its use of swing and blue notes, call and response vocals, polyrhythms, and improvisation.

Symphonic Poem: A piece of orchestral music that illustrates or evokes a poem, story, or scene, typically structured in a single continuous movement.