Ferde Grofé — Rhapsody in Blue Orchestration

Status: Documented. Grofé orchestrated Rhapsody in Blue; Gershwin provided two-piano score. The line between orchestration and composition is blurry—Grofé’s choices shaped the work’s sound. Officially credited as orchestrator; contributes to Gershwin/Swift investigation.

Overview

Ferde Grofé (1892–1972). Paul Whiteman’s staff arranger. Orchestrated Rhapsody in Blue (1924) and created multiple versions (1924 jazz band, 1926 pit orchestra, 1942 symphonic).

Rhapsody in Blue — Collaboration

Gershwin’s Role

Commissioned by Whiteman; five weeks to complete.
Delivered two-piano score—one piano = solo part, other = band reduction.
Consulted Grofé early: played sketches for feedback on themes and ordering.

Grofé’s Role

Received pages as Gershwin completed them; orchestrated for Whiteman’s ensemble.
Knew each player’s strengths (four+ years with ensemble).
Published credit: “Geo. Gershwin ; score by Ferdie [sic] Grofé” (Morgan Library).
Grofé = orchestrator; Gershwin = composer.

Blurred Line

Orchestration choices (instrumentation, color, voicing) significantly shape the work’s impact.
Richard Howe: Gershwin consulted Grofé on “which themes to include and their ordering”—compositional input, not merely scoring.
Grofé’s handling “significantly contributed to the work’s lasting success” (LOC).
Interpretation: Grofé’s contribution exceeds “mere” orchestration; but he is credited. Contrast with Kay Swift (no formal credit despite “intimate involvement”).

Cross-Reference

gershwin-kay-swift.md — Porgy and Bess; Swift uncredited; Grofé credited for Rhapsody

Sources

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