Some music is so captivating, it simply becomes part of the human experience. That’s the case for George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, a piece heard in movies, television and concert halls since it was composed a century ago.

Conductor Mélanie Léonard says this performance will take you back to a time where style and extravagance were king. (Sergio Veranes)

For conductor Mélanie Léonard, the soundtrack of the 1920’s can also be heard at home.

“There’s an exuberance to it, an unbridled joy.”

“I was cooking the other night and listening. I love everything about the era, it’s elegance and esthetic,” says Léonard. “It was a sound that was all new at the time and there’s an exuberance to it, an unbridled joy.”

That excitement is front and center as the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra takes us back in time with Roaring Twenties February 10th at TCU Place.

Gershwin’s music holds a special memories for Daniel Clarke Bouchard. (Joe Alvoeiro)

The centennial of Rhapsody in Blue will feature a performance by celebrated Montreal pianist Daniel Clarke Bouchard who was first introduced to the piece by his mentor Oliver Jones.

“It’s very memorable and one of my favourites to play.”

“I was 15 when I performed it with Oliver and it was so magical to share the stage with him,” says Bouchard. “The fusion of jazz and American pop of the time, it has a very showtime feel to it, it’s very memorable and one of my favourites to play.”

The trip to the speakeasy continues with another Gershwin classic American in Paris and Symphony No. 1 “Afro-American” by William Grant Still.

“Still’s work has echoes of Gershwin in it,” says Léonard. “This entire program is simply great music. It’s survived because the blending of the classical and jazz worlds resonates with people. I can’t wait to explore this repertoire with the orchestra and the audience.”