George Gershwin Signed Rhapsody in Blue Piano Score.

GERSHWIN, George.

$12,500.00

Item Number: 145285

New York: Harms Incorporated, 1925.

Rare 1925 printing of the piano score for the orchestral composition that defined the jazz age, first published in 1924. Small folio, original illustrated wrappers, piano solo and second piano in score. Presentation copy, inscribed by George Gershwin on the title page, “For Mr. Fuerst – with all best wishes George Gershwin.” The recipient, Eugene Fuerst, was conductor and director of the Portland Civic Opera Association and the Theater Arts Opera Association. In very good condition with some loss and creasing to the cover and slight toning to the title page. A beautiful signature from Gershwin.

"Rhapsody in Blue" first premiered at Aeolian Hall in New York City on February 12, 1924 to blazing reception. The rhapsody is one of Gershwin's most recognizable creations, ushering in a new age in Jazz history. By 1927, bandleader Paul Whiteman's band performed 'Rhapsody in Blue' approximately 84 times and sold a million copies of its recordings.