The Gilded Age Orchestra returned to Rosecliff to celebrate Rhapsody in Blue at 100. George Gershwin’s “jazz concerto masterpiece” however, wasn’t the only programme note. The Orchestra introduced critically successful composers of the day to a new audience.
Rhapsody in Blue at Rosecliff
Rosecliff is a beautiful manor house on iconic Bellevue Avenue in Newport Rhode Island. It’s also an ideal venue for “Parlour music.” Whilst the “sold out” concert numbered about 100 seated guests, this was nevertheless an intimate affair. The Social Diary delighted in attending the Gilded Age Orchestra’s performance earlier this year. As well as two opening night exhibitions, Gilded Age Newport in Color and Wild Imagination. The latest exhibition continues through 12th January 2025.
Conductor and educator, Dr. Mark A. Stickney started with lesser known pieces. However, these composers, including Kate Vannah, achieved critical success in their own right. Vannah published her first songs at age 18.
The pièce de résistance came at the end, with Rhapsody in Blue at 100. Still, a classic by any measure, performed with gusto by the brilliant pianist, Dr. Kirill Gliadkovsky.
The Gilded Age Orchestra
Some of the members of the Gilded Age Orchestra have appeared on the television programme, The Gilded Age. Newport is abuzz with the prospect of Season 3 sometime in 2025. Moreover, filming resumed this year, with notable closures of some of the Newport Mansions.
Indeed, The Social Diary is all about the “dress code” and the Gilded Age Orchestra did not disappoint. Whether you watch the series or attend this concert, white tie ensemble is always impressive. That’s because this dress code is rare, unless specially noted on the invitation.
What’s in a Name: Rhapsody in Blue
Rhapsody in Blue at 100 (1924-2024) celebrates George Gershwin’s ” masterpiece.” However, Gershwin almost called it “American Rhapsody.” The inspiration for the name change came from Ira Gershwin. Additionally, the “jazz concerto” quickly composed within five weeks, speaks to the brilliance of George Gershwin. Rhapsody in Blue premiered in February 1924 and instantly hailed as an “American masterpiece.”