Symphony Concert: Let it swing!

Experience a groundbreaking evening of musical fusion in *Symphony Concert: Let it Swing!* This captivating concert film explores the fascinating moment when classical music dared to embrace the energy of jazz, forever changing the landscape of composition. Journey back to 1924, when Paul Whiteman's audacious attempt to blend popular melodies with a classical orchestra sparked both curiosity and skepticism – even leaving luminaries like Fritz Kreisler and Sergei Rachmaninoff feeling underwhelmed. Then, a young George Gershwin took the stage, and everything changed. Witness the electrifying premiere of Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue," heralded by a dazzling clarinet glissando that signaled a completely new musical experience. This iconic work has captivated audiences for generations, bridging the gap between classical and jazz. The concert film then traces the ripple effect of Gershwin’s innovation, showcasing how other composers – from Shostakovich to Alexander Tsfasman – followed suit, creating their own unique blends of genres. Featuring a vibrant performance by the Thuringian Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Oliver Weder with the brilliant Oleg Weinstein on piano, this concert film is a thrilling exploration of musical boundary-breaking. Enjoy a diverse program including Gershwin’s “Overture to the musical 'Funny Face,'” “An American in Paris,” and the evocative “Warsaw Concerto” by Richard Addinsell, alongside Ernst Fischer’s “In a Harbour Town” and Tsfasman's Jazz Suite. Prepare to be moved and inspired by this extraordinary celebration of musical innovation!