G. Gershwin - Rhapsody in Blue - 1st clarinet part (1924)
 
Rhapsody in Blue is Gershwin’s absolute masterpiece, as well as a landmark in the history of American culture. Conceived with the idea of representing the variety of cultures which formed New York’s eclectic identity in the roaring 20s, Rhapsody in Blue blends melodies, rhythms and structures of classical, jazz, and blues in a completely novel way, becoming a quintessential example of the emerging genre of "symphonic jazz”. Here, the clarinet plays a pivotal role. Starting from the iconic glissando which opens the composition and has become synonymous with the piece itself, the clarinet provides soulful elegance throughout the composition, both as solo instrument and in ensemble sections, adding color, personality, and a touch of improvisatory flair to the overall sound of Rhapsody in Blue.