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Rhapsody
One evening in 1924, Katharine “Kay” Swift—the restless but loyal society wife of wealthy banker James Warburg and a serious pianist who longs for recognition—attends a concert. The piece: Rhapsody in Blue. The composer: a brilliant, elusive young musical genius named George Gershwin.
Kay is transfixed, helpless to resist the magnetic pull of George’s talent, charm, and swagger. Their ten-year love affair, complicated by her conflicted loyalty to her husband and the twists and turns of her own musical career, ends only with George’s death from a brain tumor at the age of thirty-eight.
Set in Jazz Age New York City, this stunning work of fiction, for fans of The Paris Wife and Loving Frank, explores the timeless bond between two brilliant, strong-willed artists. George Gershwin left behind not just a body of work unmatched in popular musical history, but a woman who loved him with all her heart, knowing all the while that he belonged not to her, but to the world.
Kay is transfixed, helpless to resist the magnetic pull of George’s talent, charm, and swagger. Their ten-year love affair, complicated by her conflicted loyalty to her husband and the twists and turns of her own musical career, ends only with George’s death from a brain tumor at the age of thirty-eight.
Set in Jazz Age New York City, this stunning work of fiction, for fans of The Paris Wife and Loving Frank, explores the timeless bond between two brilliant, strong-willed artists. George Gershwin left behind not just a body of work unmatched in popular musical history, but a woman who loved him with all her heart, knowing all the while that he belonged not to her, but to the world.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published March 2, 2021
About the author
Mitchell James Kaplan
4 books234 followersMitchell James Kaplan is a cum laude graduate of Yale University, where he won the Paine Memorial Prize. His first mentor was author William Styron. Following college, he lived in Paris and Southern California. Currently he lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.
Mitchell James Kaplan's 2010 novel, By Fire, By Water, won numerous literary awards both domestically and abroad. Into The Unbounded Night, a novel of first century Rome and the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, will be out in September, 2020 (Regal House). Rhapsody, a novel about Kay Swift and her 1920s Broadway circle, including her lover George Gershwin, will appear in 2021 (Gallery / Simon & Schuster)
Mitchell James Kaplan's 2010 novel, By Fire, By Water, won numerous literary awards both domestically and abroad. Into The Unbounded Night, a novel of first century Rome and the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, will be out in September, 2020 (Regal House). Rhapsody, a novel about Kay Swift and her 1920s Broadway circle, including her lover George Gershwin, will appear in 2021 (Gallery / Simon & Schuster)
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March 2, 2021
Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan
I never knew much about musical genius George Gershwin but now I know he was a womanizer with a talented mistress that loved him. The mistress was Katharine Swift, the society wife of wealthy banker James Warburg and a serious pianist and a talented composer of popular and classical music. Early in their marriage, Kay realized that her husband was a philanderer and he told her that it's his nature to philander and that she is free to do so herself. Kay didn't join another man's bed until she met Gershwin, who she soon knew she loved. Sadly, she thought Gershwin would be devoted to her in a way her husband was not, but instead, Gershwin was very much like her husband in the matter of philandering.
Throughout the book we meet many famous people of all types. But mostly the book revolves around Kay's need to have either her husband or Gershwin in her life. She knew, after a time, that she didn't love her husband (and her three children with him seemed to be bothersome distractions) but Gershwin didn't need her the way she needed him. All three of these talented people were patients of psychoanalyst Gregory Zilboorg although that experience adds another measure of unhappiness to Kay's life . No one seems to be very happy in this story, everyone seems to be very self centered and that makes this a hard book to enjoy.
Publication: March 2nd 2021
Thank you to Gallery Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
I never knew much about musical genius George Gershwin but now I know he was a womanizer with a talented mistress that loved him. The mistress was Katharine Swift, the society wife of wealthy banker James Warburg and a serious pianist and a talented composer of popular and classical music. Early in their marriage, Kay realized that her husband was a philanderer and he told her that it's his nature to philander and that she is free to do so herself. Kay didn't join another man's bed until she met Gershwin, who she soon knew she loved. Sadly, she thought Gershwin would be devoted to her in a way her husband was not, but instead, Gershwin was very much like her husband in the matter of philandering.
Throughout the book we meet many famous people of all types. But mostly the book revolves around Kay's need to have either her husband or Gershwin in her life. She knew, after a time, that she didn't love her husband (and her three children with him seemed to be bothersome distractions) but Gershwin didn't need her the way she needed him. All three of these talented people were patients of psychoanalyst Gregory Zilboorg although that experience adds another measure of unhappiness to Kay's life . No one seems to be very happy in this story, everyone seems to be very self centered and that makes this a hard book to enjoy.
Publication: March 2nd 2021
Thank you to Gallery Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
February 19, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up.
I was lured into this book by the title, by the setting in historic New York City and the time, the Jazz age . Taking the reader to that place and time is the strength of the novel and that’s what captivated me throughout . I didn’t know a thing about Katharine Faulkner Swift, called Kay by her lover George Gershwin. She was a pianist, a composer in her own right and was married to a very rich banker. While I knew of George Gershwin’s musical talent and fame and even love listening to those old songs, I knew nothing of his personal life and his ten year affair with Kay Swift. I really didn’t like any of them, Kay, or her husband or George . They felt somewhat shallow, took their relationships too lightly for me to care about them, that is, until close to the end when I could see their love for each other and the collaboration of their talents was lovely to learn about.
Of course, I looked at a few biographical articles about them and I was pleased that Kaplan portrayed them as history saw them. Their passion for their music, the mention of the songs moved me more than the characters. “Someone to Watch Over Me” - I’m still singing it in my head . There are tones of antisemitism and racism of the time here as well. I loved that Gershwin orders that “Porgy and Bess” would only ever be played by a black cast, never in black face . I found this to be a great diversion on two snowy pandemic afternoons. I recommend it to fans of historical fiction, especially those who enjoy those that portray historic New York City.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Gallery Books through NetGalley.
December 3, 2020
1920s New York City is blazing with jazz and one of the rising stars George Gershwin is blending classical music with jazz. A musician endowed with “the most brilliant, most enchanting and perhaps the most profound talent.” On the other end of spectrum, there is a classically trained composer – Katherine “Kay” Swift. This story brings two legends and their musical influences on each other.
NYC, 1924. Katherine is not convinced of old musical pieces being presented in a new style. But Paul Whiteman of P.T. Barnum convinces her to attend a concert, the piece – Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin. Gershwin’s music transforms her.
1917. As the story goes back in time, it reveals how Katherine meets James Warburg, their courtship and their contrasting family backgrounds. It is revealed with so much depth, evocative layers. It’s a pure joy.
1925. By now, she knows of her husband’s infidelities. And her path crosses with George Gershwin again. Upon meeting him in person, they connect musically despite opposite technics. Flexibility and instinct are his guidance. He is “loosey-goosey, with shifting tempos. She struck the notes properly, intentionally. (…) Whatever it was, his way of blending Rachmaninoff-like lyricism with bumpy-road rhythms captivated her…”
There is one scene, which I enjoyed very much, when George takes Katherine to Harlem. Harlem is epicenter of jazz. I wished they went back to Harlem a couple more times. So we could soak up that atmosphere.
All three characters are interestingly presented including Katherine’s husband – James Warburg. He comes from family of bankers. His business endeavors take him back and forth between USA and Germany and also to Washington DC as the financial advisor to Franklin D. Roosevelt. It was interesting to learn about his father being the “father” of the Federal Reserve system. And also them being family of successful immigrants and creating an issue for Americans who didn’t want to empower immigrants who may retain affection for their homeland.
Katherine’s background is touchingly illustrated. Her musical background being influenced by her father’s love for music. He taught her to use the sound exploration to probe human soul.
George Gershwin of humbling background is the kindest of souls remaining humble while enjoying his success. “A man pouring his heart out to the world.”
The beautiful layers compose a spellbinding story as enchanting as its music and told with luminous prose. Touchingly creative story capturing souls of musical artists.
I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed this flawless prose and entertaining dialogue. Dialogue which constantly moves the story forward, sharp in word choice, invigorating in meaning. Simply a fresh breath, something very original and rare.
P.S. Also by this author recommend By Fire, By Water.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
NYC, 1924. Katherine is not convinced of old musical pieces being presented in a new style. But Paul Whiteman of P.T. Barnum convinces her to attend a concert, the piece – Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin. Gershwin’s music transforms her.
1917. As the story goes back in time, it reveals how Katherine meets James Warburg, their courtship and their contrasting family backgrounds. It is revealed with so much depth, evocative layers. It’s a pure joy.
1925. By now, she knows of her husband’s infidelities. And her path crosses with George Gershwin again. Upon meeting him in person, they connect musically despite opposite technics. Flexibility and instinct are his guidance. He is “loosey-goosey, with shifting tempos. She struck the notes properly, intentionally. (…) Whatever it was, his way of blending Rachmaninoff-like lyricism with bumpy-road rhythms captivated her…”
There is one scene, which I enjoyed very much, when George takes Katherine to Harlem. Harlem is epicenter of jazz. I wished they went back to Harlem a couple more times. So we could soak up that atmosphere.
All three characters are interestingly presented including Katherine’s husband – James Warburg. He comes from family of bankers. His business endeavors take him back and forth between USA and Germany and also to Washington DC as the financial advisor to Franklin D. Roosevelt. It was interesting to learn about his father being the “father” of the Federal Reserve system. And also them being family of successful immigrants and creating an issue for Americans who didn’t want to empower immigrants who may retain affection for their homeland.
Katherine’s background is touchingly illustrated. Her musical background being influenced by her father’s love for music. He taught her to use the sound exploration to probe human soul.
George Gershwin of humbling background is the kindest of souls remaining humble while enjoying his success. “A man pouring his heart out to the world.”
The beautiful layers compose a spellbinding story as enchanting as its music and told with luminous prose. Touchingly creative story capturing souls of musical artists.
I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed this flawless prose and entertaining dialogue. Dialogue which constantly moves the story forward, sharp in word choice, invigorating in meaning. Simply a fresh breath, something very original and rare.
P.S. Also by this author recommend By Fire, By Water.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2021
"There's been another man that I've needed and I've loved
But that doesn't mean I love you less
And he knows he can't possess me and he knows he never will
There's just this empty place inside of me that only he can fill"
-Torn Between Two Lovers" written by Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul & Mary) and Phil Jarrel
Katharine "Kay" Swift was a classically trained pianist who had studied at Juilliard. "People associated classical music with aristocratic taste...the newly rich and the newly almost rich, who aspired to an appearance of nobility, surrounded themselves with it." As part of the "Edith Rubel Trio", Kay performed at soirees where champagne and propaganda flowed in the 1920's after the period of the Great War and during Prohibition.
The Warburgs were a powerful banking family. The patriarch, Paul Warburg, had help create the Federal Reserve System. The Warburgs hosted many musical gatherings. "...The only thing she knew about Jimmy Warburg was that he had access to more money than anyone she had ever met...he was handsome...funny...and a tad pretentious...Chopin meant as much to her as sapphires; probably more..., [To Jimmy] she was sharp, delightful, and slightly rebellious. A stimulating companion...Music remained her focus. Music was her future. That was not negotiable." Kay and Jimmy married in 1918. "Creative people possessed or thought they possessed the power to invent their own moral codes" as evidenced by conflicting loyalties soon to arise.
A Warburg party boasted an impromptu piano performance by George Gershwin. "His hands swept across the keyboard brushing into the air a multiplicity of simple tunes that wound through or bounced off each other, disappeared, reemerged and recombined in the treble or bass register adorned with grace notes and triplet flourishes...The mood shifted. A sorrowful melody...big chords that slid through half-step gradations, implying key changes...the room held its breath...".
"Katharine possessed...perfect pitch but also an unerring musical memory...The study of music, its intricate machinery, had been the focus of [her] entire life...Gershwin played like a self-taught virtuoso. Everything was wrong, his posture, his fingering...when she allowed the music to justify itself-somehow everything sounded right...what she heard...was a man pouring his heart out to the world...the sadness and beauty of it enveloped her...that was the moment Katharine...realized that something was lacking in her marriage...".
Jimmy Warburg travelled often, spending months abroad. "He delighted in sexual escapades...A slow earthquake had began rumbling through their domestic life..." "As long as our union remains our priority...Marriage isn't about ownership, it's about sharing...Once upon a time, Kay cared where her husband was traveling...it had all grown so complicated..." "[Katharine] was composing an etude...she was playing Gershwin songs...through the music she had gained insight into the man...now in the music she was composing, she inserted a Gershwinwesque key change here and a bouncy rhythm there...". "We have so much to learn from each other".
"Rhapsody" by Mitchell James Kaplan is a work of historical fiction set in New York City during the Jazz Age. "Through their love affair, Gershwin and Kay gave fire to each other's music". The novel was replete with musicians that included Duke Ellington at the Cotton Club and Fats Waller's rent parties. Figures such as Averill Harriman and Harpo Marx were part of their social circle. Highly recommended!
Thank you Gallery Books and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
But that doesn't mean I love you less
And he knows he can't possess me and he knows he never will
There's just this empty place inside of me that only he can fill"
-Torn Between Two Lovers" written by Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul & Mary) and Phil Jarrel
Katharine "Kay" Swift was a classically trained pianist who had studied at Juilliard. "People associated classical music with aristocratic taste...the newly rich and the newly almost rich, who aspired to an appearance of nobility, surrounded themselves with it." As part of the "Edith Rubel Trio", Kay performed at soirees where champagne and propaganda flowed in the 1920's after the period of the Great War and during Prohibition.
The Warburgs were a powerful banking family. The patriarch, Paul Warburg, had help create the Federal Reserve System. The Warburgs hosted many musical gatherings. "...The only thing she knew about Jimmy Warburg was that he had access to more money than anyone she had ever met...he was handsome...funny...and a tad pretentious...Chopin meant as much to her as sapphires; probably more..., [To Jimmy] she was sharp, delightful, and slightly rebellious. A stimulating companion...Music remained her focus. Music was her future. That was not negotiable." Kay and Jimmy married in 1918. "Creative people possessed or thought they possessed the power to invent their own moral codes" as evidenced by conflicting loyalties soon to arise.
A Warburg party boasted an impromptu piano performance by George Gershwin. "His hands swept across the keyboard brushing into the air a multiplicity of simple tunes that wound through or bounced off each other, disappeared, reemerged and recombined in the treble or bass register adorned with grace notes and triplet flourishes...The mood shifted. A sorrowful melody...big chords that slid through half-step gradations, implying key changes...the room held its breath...".
"Katharine possessed...perfect pitch but also an unerring musical memory...The study of music, its intricate machinery, had been the focus of [her] entire life...Gershwin played like a self-taught virtuoso. Everything was wrong, his posture, his fingering...when she allowed the music to justify itself-somehow everything sounded right...what she heard...was a man pouring his heart out to the world...the sadness and beauty of it enveloped her...that was the moment Katharine...realized that something was lacking in her marriage...".
Jimmy Warburg travelled often, spending months abroad. "He delighted in sexual escapades...A slow earthquake had began rumbling through their domestic life..." "As long as our union remains our priority...Marriage isn't about ownership, it's about sharing...Once upon a time, Kay cared where her husband was traveling...it had all grown so complicated..." "[Katharine] was composing an etude...she was playing Gershwin songs...through the music she had gained insight into the man...now in the music she was composing, she inserted a Gershwinwesque key change here and a bouncy rhythm there...". "We have so much to learn from each other".
"Rhapsody" by Mitchell James Kaplan is a work of historical fiction set in New York City during the Jazz Age. "Through their love affair, Gershwin and Kay gave fire to each other's music". The novel was replete with musicians that included Duke Ellington at the Cotton Club and Fats Waller's rent parties. Figures such as Averill Harriman and Harpo Marx were part of their social circle. Highly recommended!
Thank you Gallery Books and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2021
Interesting and unique look at the life of George Gershwin and Kay Swift as they impact Broadway and music world. Kay’s dedication and love for him cost her greatly. 3.5 STARS
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is not what I was expecting at all but it is one that grabbed my interest and kept me engaged. This is a story of love – a love of music and what your passions can do to you and for you.
The first part of this story is humorous and fun. I loved Katharine and Jimmy with their light-hearted, wise banter and discovery of life together. But soon they changed. Kathleen was focused on her music and Jimmy focused on his career that often had him travelling for months at a time. They grew apart for a time and when they met George Gershwin, their lives were changed completely.
A brilliant force in New York City, Gershwin shaped Broadway and the music scene in such a way the ripple effect is still recognizable today. Katharine became enamored by him as he affected not only her soul but her music as well. She became Kay and she became the woman behind the man.
The song writing collaborations between Kay and Jimmy in the earlier years, and Kay along with George later on will have you singing along as you recognize the music they made famous and the people that made an impact in music, in Hollywood, and on Broadway. Packed with names yet to be made famous in this rising star story, it is filled with behind the scenes history along with a bit of literary license.
While Kay changed and became another woman I did not really care for, she was definitely someone that needed to be showcased for her talents and impact. Kay’s dedication and love for Gershwin cost her greatly. Kaplan has given her the Broadway stars that she did not receive in her lifetime.
A toe-tapping read that sweeps you to another time and enamors you with glitter and glitz of the up and coming Jazz Age in the 1920’s. Kaplan writes in such a manner that you cannot help but raise a toast.
* Copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/rhapsody-by-...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is not what I was expecting at all but it is one that grabbed my interest and kept me engaged. This is a story of love – a love of music and what your passions can do to you and for you.
The first part of this story is humorous and fun. I loved Katharine and Jimmy with their light-hearted, wise banter and discovery of life together. But soon they changed. Kathleen was focused on her music and Jimmy focused on his career that often had him travelling for months at a time. They grew apart for a time and when they met George Gershwin, their lives were changed completely.
A brilliant force in New York City, Gershwin shaped Broadway and the music scene in such a way the ripple effect is still recognizable today. Katharine became enamored by him as he affected not only her soul but her music as well. She became Kay and she became the woman behind the man.
The song writing collaborations between Kay and Jimmy in the earlier years, and Kay along with George later on will have you singing along as you recognize the music they made famous and the people that made an impact in music, in Hollywood, and on Broadway. Packed with names yet to be made famous in this rising star story, it is filled with behind the scenes history along with a bit of literary license.
While Kay changed and became another woman I did not really care for, she was definitely someone that needed to be showcased for her talents and impact. Kay’s dedication and love for Gershwin cost her greatly. Kaplan has given her the Broadway stars that she did not receive in her lifetime.
A toe-tapping read that sweeps you to another time and enamors you with glitter and glitz of the up and coming Jazz Age in the 1920’s. Kaplan writes in such a manner that you cannot help but raise a toast.
* Copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/rhapsody-by-...
September 16, 2020
Want to be transported to the Twenties? This book is a time-capsule: while reading I was there, vibrating with all the rhythm, electricity, energy of the era--and aware of the deprivation in its midst. Rhapsody showed me how a gifted and determined woman could succeed in a male-dominant culture, fully aware of the ironies in that success. Kay's rise involves a struggle between her emotional and her musical desires; and her emotional desires are themselves torn between two men: her husband--socially and financially recognized--and her lover, the musical genius George Gershwin.
This book not only tells a love story but also provides the sweep of the times, including the rich and famous, and the surrounding individuals who contribute to the lives of the protagonists. It is a surprisingly engaging, light read for such profound insights. Beautifully written. Thought-provoking and delightful.
Do play Gerschwin while reading. It's just perfect.
This book not only tells a love story but also provides the sweep of the times, including the rich and famous, and the surrounding individuals who contribute to the lives of the protagonists. It is a surprisingly engaging, light read for such profound insights. Beautifully written. Thought-provoking and delightful.
Do play Gerschwin while reading. It's just perfect.
October 5, 2020
What a beautifully written fictional story of the ten year affair between George Gershwin and fellow pianist/composer, Kay Swift (which took place between 1925 and 1937). I loved it so much! The background and setting of the jazz age along with a supporting cast of rich and famous wonderfully described characters, made this novel one of my very favorites of 2020. While reading this book, I had my Alexa play Gershwin as the perfect mood music to further deepen my appreciation of the book.
My thanks to Mitchell James Kaplan, Gallery Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book and exchange for a fair and honest review.
My thanks to Mitchell James Kaplan, Gallery Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book and exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 14, 2021
Much of this book was written for a piano aficionado, but no matter because those parts help to develop the story’s mood of “pensive longing.” 1924, Katherine Swift was married to James Warburg, a scion of the Warburg banking Dynasty. He is Jewish, mostly unacknowledged. She, of another faith, is a classically trained pianist. He is a banker of course, but also a poet of sorts. They move in a rarefied social circle of classical musicians, financiers and politicians. She doesn’t care for popular music thinking it “predictable and trite, boring really” until one night in the winter of 1924 when they attend a musical event to hear a piano concerto.
A tall man walks onto the stage, lowers himself to the Steinway piano, shoves the tails of his tuxedo behind the bench and proceeds to mesmerize all in attendance with “Rhapsody in Blue”. Katherine forgets how to breathe as she listens to each confident note of the man “pouring his heart out to the world.” She is caught in the sadness and the beauty of Gershwin’s music - she is drifting in a rowboat. This is the moment she realizes her marriage is lacking and her future lies with someone else. A heartbeat later she is no longer Katherine but Kay Swift.
He’s from the lower East Side breaking rules as he grew up. Her background is the Upper West Side, a student at the forerunner of Juilliard. Other than their love of music their upbringing couldn’t have been more different. While both are skilled pianists, she is a mechanic and it takes Gershwin to teach her the importance of finding the spark of life in the heart of the music.
Gershwin and Kay Swift danced their crazy and dizzy relationship across the country and ocean. They attended rent parties in Harlem, hung out at the Cotton Club, glad-handing musicians wherever they went. The aspiring composers and musicians put their music and relationship before everything. Drawn in stark counterpoint are the supposed morals of money, social standing and marriage against the ever present infidelity, revelry and drunkenness. It was the roaring 20’s. It was the era of Igor Stravinsky, George and Ira Gershwin, Jascha Heifetz, Dottie Parker, Sergei Rachmaninov, Harpo Marx, Al Jolson, Fats Waller, Mayor Jimmy Walker.
As a brief aside, despite his genius, Gershwin was never able to raise the funding necessary to put Porgy into his vision of the production. It was not to be a success until many decades later. In 1990 the Metropolitan Opera would see it grace their stage and on September 23, 2019 its revival would be the opening Opera of the Season. Sold out, extra performances added, sold out!
There is so much more to this book. Loved it.
Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for a copy. The opinions expressed in this review are mine and unfortunately my words will never be enough to convey how wonderful this book is.
A tall man walks onto the stage, lowers himself to the Steinway piano, shoves the tails of his tuxedo behind the bench and proceeds to mesmerize all in attendance with “Rhapsody in Blue”. Katherine forgets how to breathe as she listens to each confident note of the man “pouring his heart out to the world.” She is caught in the sadness and the beauty of Gershwin’s music - she is drifting in a rowboat. This is the moment she realizes her marriage is lacking and her future lies with someone else. A heartbeat later she is no longer Katherine but Kay Swift.
He’s from the lower East Side breaking rules as he grew up. Her background is the Upper West Side, a student at the forerunner of Juilliard. Other than their love of music their upbringing couldn’t have been more different. While both are skilled pianists, she is a mechanic and it takes Gershwin to teach her the importance of finding the spark of life in the heart of the music.
Gershwin and Kay Swift danced their crazy and dizzy relationship across the country and ocean. They attended rent parties in Harlem, hung out at the Cotton Club, glad-handing musicians wherever they went. The aspiring composers and musicians put their music and relationship before everything. Drawn in stark counterpoint are the supposed morals of money, social standing and marriage against the ever present infidelity, revelry and drunkenness. It was the roaring 20’s. It was the era of Igor Stravinsky, George and Ira Gershwin, Jascha Heifetz, Dottie Parker, Sergei Rachmaninov, Harpo Marx, Al Jolson, Fats Waller, Mayor Jimmy Walker.
As a brief aside, despite his genius, Gershwin was never able to raise the funding necessary to put Porgy into his vision of the production. It was not to be a success until many decades later. In 1990 the Metropolitan Opera would see it grace their stage and on September 23, 2019 its revival would be the opening Opera of the Season. Sold out, extra performances added, sold out!
There is so much more to this book. Loved it.
Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for a copy. The opinions expressed in this review are mine and unfortunately my words will never be enough to convey how wonderful this book is.
March 2, 2021
Prepare to be transported back in time to the musical world of 1920's New York City with Mitchell James Kaplan's new novel, Rhapsody!
Rhapsody tells the story of the famous composer, George Gershwin, and the much lesser-known but just as talented, Kay Swift.
Kay had put her musical dreams aside after marrying but when she hears Gershwin play Rhapsody in Blue at a concert she is entranced and not only is she drawn to his music, but the man himself. Kay is a multi-faceted woman that you will sometimes drive you mad but also impress you.
The author's passion for the time period, music, and Gershwin shine through in Mitchell's wonderful writing.
The sign of a good Historical Fiction novel is that it teaches and entertains you at the same time and Rhapsody surely fits that bill!
A love triangle, a fascinating look at the music industry at the time, featuring two powerful historical figures makes Rhapsody a fantastic read! I highly recommend!
Rhapsody tells the story of the famous composer, George Gershwin, and the much lesser-known but just as talented, Kay Swift.
Kay had put her musical dreams aside after marrying but when she hears Gershwin play Rhapsody in Blue at a concert she is entranced and not only is she drawn to his music, but the man himself. Kay is a multi-faceted woman that you will sometimes drive you mad but also impress you.
The author's passion for the time period, music, and Gershwin shine through in Mitchell's wonderful writing.
The sign of a good Historical Fiction novel is that it teaches and entertains you at the same time and Rhapsody surely fits that bill!
A love triangle, a fascinating look at the music industry at the time, featuring two powerful historical figures makes Rhapsody a fantastic read! I highly recommend!
January 29, 2021
Extremely close to historical facts (for the genre), the book offers an intimate perspective on the lives of both Gershwin and Kay Swift — a pioneering composer in her own right. In painting the euphoria of following one’s destiny as a musician, it inspires one to pursue what they are meant to do, and seek exposure to both Swift’s and Gershwin’s work in closer detail. The book not only encapsulates the time period and atmosphere, but the backstage of every single piece of music and professionally or personally meaningful in the lives of both composers. Kaplan also makes one believe in the idealized kind of love that many people give up believing in after a while — a love built on unstoppable intellectual influence, undeniable spiritual kinship, and inevitable lust. Highly recommend for: anyone, but especially musicians, historians, romance thriller seekers (if you like Anna Karenina / Madame Bovary, you’ll love this), anyone appreciating self-discovery and coming-of-age stories — but especially young women uncertain about their calling and the future it entails. I wish I had read this years ago.
March 24, 2021
This book missed the mark on so many levels.
It does not deliver what it promised which was the love story between George Gershwin and Katharine (Kay) Swift/Warburg.
It is 130+ pages in before they even say ‘hello’.
Before that it’s a cavalcade of name dropping of the artistic crowd of the 1920’s NYC + Katharine’s humble beginnings and James Warburg’s (whom she marries) high society banking family.
There is an underlying political theme that has nothing whatsoever to do with “Rhapsody”.
Unfortunately the sound of music does not translate well on to the written page.
There is some inane dialogue throughout – none more so that that between Kay and Adele Astaire (pg. 161).
The whole point of the book got lost in all the non-essential details about other people.
This book was a huge disappointment.
I had to listen to Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” on YouTube to cleanse my palate!
It does not deliver what it promised which was the love story between George Gershwin and Katharine (Kay) Swift/Warburg.
It is 130+ pages in before they even say ‘hello’.
Before that it’s a cavalcade of name dropping of the artistic crowd of the 1920’s NYC + Katharine’s humble beginnings and James Warburg’s (whom she marries) high society banking family.
There is an underlying political theme that has nothing whatsoever to do with “Rhapsody”.
Unfortunately the sound of music does not translate well on to the written page.
There is some inane dialogue throughout – none more so that that between Kay and Adele Astaire (pg. 161).
The whole point of the book got lost in all the non-essential details about other people.
This book was a huge disappointment.
I had to listen to Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” on YouTube to cleanse my palate!
March 6, 2021
If you are a fan of musical history and New York City during the Jazz Age, Rhapsody is a book worth checking out. It centers around two talented musicians – George Gershwin, whose fame remains today and the lesser known Katherine “Kay” Swift. In 1924, while married to wealthy banker Jimmy Warburg, Kay is mesmerized by the young composer George Gershwin, as he performs Rhapsody in Blue. She is forever changed. Once George and Kay meet, they begin an affair and inspire one another in their music. Warburg has his own dalliances which only brings Kay closer to Gershwin. And becomes so wrapped up in him that her children are delegated to caretakers. She is often spoiled and selfish. Gershwin is also a flawed character. Once Kay becomes part of Gershwin’s world, she becomes part of a dazzling group of musicians, actors and intellectuals bringing her to Harlem and the Cotton Club and to the parties of some of the era’s most influential artists.
This is a fascinating story of a very creative period in contemporary history where jazz and classical music are mixed, musical theater is at its zenith and world events in Europe are threatening it all. Kay Swift was the first woman to have composed the entire score of a musical play. Although he tragically died at age 38, George Gershwin’s music lives on. He remains one of the most significant and popular American composers of all time. They lived in their own world of creativity and Rhapsody gives us a well-researched entry into this world.
Recommended for those who have an interest in this period and its music.
Many thanks to Gallery Books | Simon & Schuster, NetGalley and author Mitchell James Kaplan for the opportunity to read Rhapsody in advance of it publication.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
This is a fascinating story of a very creative period in contemporary history where jazz and classical music are mixed, musical theater is at its zenith and world events in Europe are threatening it all. Kay Swift was the first woman to have composed the entire score of a musical play. Although he tragically died at age 38, George Gershwin’s music lives on. He remains one of the most significant and popular American composers of all time. They lived in their own world of creativity and Rhapsody gives us a well-researched entry into this world.
Recommended for those who have an interest in this period and its music.
Many thanks to Gallery Books | Simon & Schuster, NetGalley and author Mitchell James Kaplan for the opportunity to read Rhapsody in advance of it publication.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
December 17, 2020
To give my own novel five stars seems immodest, or boastful. But there are practical reasons to do so, so I do hope my readers will forgive me. The truth, I suspect, is that all novelists love their creations. It would be a little crazy to devote years of your life to a work that you thought unworthy. So the five stars are really a way of saying to the characters of RHAPSODY: thank you for coming into my life; I love you. And to any metaphysical entities that may have participated in this process: thank you. You are a blessing.
February 1, 2021
This is a wonderful piece of historical fiction about the lives of two extremely fascinating people, Kay Swift and George Gershwin. I am a great admirer of Gershwin so I was drawn to this story, which I didn’t know about.
Kay Swift was a gifted musician and composer. The relationship between Gershwin and Swift was really interesting, not just because of their talent, but also because of the people whose paths they crossed.
Kaplan wrote a pitch perfect (groan) about these gifted people which also serves as a portrait of the era and society in which they lived. I even loved reading the explanation of where certain licenses were taken with the timetable.
I’m humming all my favorite Gershwin wing songs now, inspired by this lovely, well written piece of historical fiction. Thank you Netgalley for this excellent read.
Kay Swift was a gifted musician and composer. The relationship between Gershwin and Swift was really interesting, not just because of their talent, but also because of the people whose paths they crossed.
Kaplan wrote a pitch perfect (groan) about these gifted people which also serves as a portrait of the era and society in which they lived. I even loved reading the explanation of where certain licenses were taken with the timetable.
I’m humming all my favorite Gershwin wing songs now, inspired by this lovely, well written piece of historical fiction. Thank you Netgalley for this excellent read.
February 26, 2021
The legendary George Gershwin mentors married pianist/composer Kay Swift in 1920s’ NY, and they soon fall in love and create gorgeous music together. Their 10-year affair ends only when he succumbs at age 38 to a brain tumor. We’re immersed in the Jazz Age that produced music still beloved today, Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue a perfect example. While slow pace and often dislikable characters mar the tale at times, the glorious music keeps readers entranced. A fine hist fic novel for lovers of Gershwin, the ‘20s, and complicated romance.
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 02 Mar 2021
#Rhapsody #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Gallery Books, NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 02 Mar 2021
#Rhapsody #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Gallery Books, NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 14, 2021
George Gershwin will go down in history as one of the great American composers and musicians of the 20th century. Concert hall music was the domain of soloists and orchestras performing the great European composers --- orchestral and operatic performances by Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and Debussy, along with Wagner, Liszt and Verdi.
RHAPSODY is a story about the brief romance between Gershwin and the beautiful and remarkable young pianist, Katharine “Kay” Swift, who contributed so much to American music. The storyline also hints of women’s voting rights, Prohibition, the Wall Street Crash of 1929 and the Great Depression. But that was yet to come. The Roaring Twenties were up and running.
Kay was schooled in the customary style of composition. Her father, the owner of a factory in New Haven, respected the traditional music of his European roots and invested in a piano to encourage her budding musical talent by seeing that she received training from a young age. This led her to form a female salon trio of piano, cello and violin, which became in demand at the fashionable soirées of the time, held in the luxurious townhouses of Manhattan’s millionaires. It was there that she would meet and be wooed by --- and eventually marry --- James Warburg, the son of Wall Street investment tycoon Paul Warburg.
Gershwin was an unknown name among the soirée circle. Kay had learned through New York Philharmonic leader Paul Whiteman that Gershwin was set to perform a piece of “new music --- terribly innovative and exciting” at the Aeolian Hall, promoted as Rhapsody in Blue. The New York Times brushed it off as experimental and noisy. But Kay was captivated by its rhythms and chord constructions, and became what today would be called a fan. Gershwin’s genius would swing us into the Jazz Age with a new style of music that would joyously sweep through America following the Spanish flu pandemic and what was then believed to be the Last Great War. Kay wanted to meet this musical genius.
Thus begins the saga of two star-crossed lovers at the very birth of the Jazz Age that moved from South Carolina’s Gullah Island to Upper West Side speakeasies, Broadway and eventually movie screens. Mitchell James Kaplan writes this book in a style that may differ from other historical novelists. He points out that some write intimate novels that just happen to be set in the past, while others produce epics. He believes that the historical novel seeks to fill in gaps in the historical record, perhaps putting more emphasis on subjective human experience, dialogue and thoughts. He observes that some writers place a premium on entertainment value, others on authenticity, and still others on style. He feels that all of these aspects are interconnected and considers it his obligation to value them equally. RHAPSODY does it all.
The novel flows as lyrically through Kaplan’s prose as the wail of the saxophones and crescendos of Gershwin’s keyboards. You can almost hear the taxi horns and clopping hooves of carriage horses in Central Park through his words as you imagine riding down Park Avenue past the towering edifices of lush mansions. As Kay becomes so absorbed in her performing as to be swept away from her audience, I read this book under that same captivation as minutes flowed into hours. Only my noisy team of hungry terriers could break my concentration.
Having grown up in the mid-20th century, I must have seen or listened to every musical influenced by Gershwin’s genius --- all of the recordings, plays and movie scores that I could afford. His influence flowed through many of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ movies. He and Kay Swift wrote Porgy and Bess and were the inspiration for An American in Paris. Sadly his work was brought to a sudden and tragic end at age 38 from a brain tumor. But Kay would be at the center of what would blossom into American popular music, bringing everyday people to visit stages, concert halls and movie theaters of the new era.
Reviewed by Roz Shea
RHAPSODY is a story about the brief romance between Gershwin and the beautiful and remarkable young pianist, Katharine “Kay” Swift, who contributed so much to American music. The storyline also hints of women’s voting rights, Prohibition, the Wall Street Crash of 1929 and the Great Depression. But that was yet to come. The Roaring Twenties were up and running.
Kay was schooled in the customary style of composition. Her father, the owner of a factory in New Haven, respected the traditional music of his European roots and invested in a piano to encourage her budding musical talent by seeing that she received training from a young age. This led her to form a female salon trio of piano, cello and violin, which became in demand at the fashionable soirées of the time, held in the luxurious townhouses of Manhattan’s millionaires. It was there that she would meet and be wooed by --- and eventually marry --- James Warburg, the son of Wall Street investment tycoon Paul Warburg.
Gershwin was an unknown name among the soirée circle. Kay had learned through New York Philharmonic leader Paul Whiteman that Gershwin was set to perform a piece of “new music --- terribly innovative and exciting” at the Aeolian Hall, promoted as Rhapsody in Blue. The New York Times brushed it off as experimental and noisy. But Kay was captivated by its rhythms and chord constructions, and became what today would be called a fan. Gershwin’s genius would swing us into the Jazz Age with a new style of music that would joyously sweep through America following the Spanish flu pandemic and what was then believed to be the Last Great War. Kay wanted to meet this musical genius.
Thus begins the saga of two star-crossed lovers at the very birth of the Jazz Age that moved from South Carolina’s Gullah Island to Upper West Side speakeasies, Broadway and eventually movie screens. Mitchell James Kaplan writes this book in a style that may differ from other historical novelists. He points out that some write intimate novels that just happen to be set in the past, while others produce epics. He believes that the historical novel seeks to fill in gaps in the historical record, perhaps putting more emphasis on subjective human experience, dialogue and thoughts. He observes that some writers place a premium on entertainment value, others on authenticity, and still others on style. He feels that all of these aspects are interconnected and considers it his obligation to value them equally. RHAPSODY does it all.
The novel flows as lyrically through Kaplan’s prose as the wail of the saxophones and crescendos of Gershwin’s keyboards. You can almost hear the taxi horns and clopping hooves of carriage horses in Central Park through his words as you imagine riding down Park Avenue past the towering edifices of lush mansions. As Kay becomes so absorbed in her performing as to be swept away from her audience, I read this book under that same captivation as minutes flowed into hours. Only my noisy team of hungry terriers could break my concentration.
Having grown up in the mid-20th century, I must have seen or listened to every musical influenced by Gershwin’s genius --- all of the recordings, plays and movie scores that I could afford. His influence flowed through many of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ movies. He and Kay Swift wrote Porgy and Bess and were the inspiration for An American in Paris. Sadly his work was brought to a sudden and tragic end at age 38 from a brain tumor. But Kay would be at the center of what would blossom into American popular music, bringing everyday people to visit stages, concert halls and movie theaters of the new era.
Reviewed by Roz Shea
December 22, 2020
Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan is an excellent historical fiction novel that depicts the epic relationship between Kay Swift and George Gershwin.
The author is remarkable in his ability to place the reader directly into NYC during the fabulous 1920s era. The jazz and broadway scenes were on fire at this time, and of course to me jazz will always be hopping. I loved being immersed into this wonderful and rich atmosphere.
The author also created a wonderful narrative that gave the reader insight into not only the controversial affair between these two talents composers and writers, but also Kay’s life before her ill-fated meeting with George. One was also able to learn about her past, her family, origins, her initial introduction to her husband, James Warburg, their relationship, and ups and downs of their marriage. The reader then gets to see the relationship of George and Kay. The passion, emotion, and all-consuming love that they had for one another may not have been conventional, may have had its own speed bumps, but to me it seemed real and had the potential to continue long term if it wouldn’t have been abruptly terminated due to George’s death. Having the privilege to take a peak into this duo’s relationship and their lives was fascinating and I loved every minute of it.
I did not know much about this affair before reading this book, sad I know, but I have already started researching their respective histories as well as combined. A great historical novel will give one a thrilling narrative, but it will also give the reader a new insight into something that is new to them and inspires them to learn more. This novel has done just that.
I highly recommend. 5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Gallery Books for this excellent arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Instagram, and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/2/21.
The author is remarkable in his ability to place the reader directly into NYC during the fabulous 1920s era. The jazz and broadway scenes were on fire at this time, and of course to me jazz will always be hopping. I loved being immersed into this wonderful and rich atmosphere.
The author also created a wonderful narrative that gave the reader insight into not only the controversial affair between these two talents composers and writers, but also Kay’s life before her ill-fated meeting with George. One was also able to learn about her past, her family, origins, her initial introduction to her husband, James Warburg, their relationship, and ups and downs of their marriage. The reader then gets to see the relationship of George and Kay. The passion, emotion, and all-consuming love that they had for one another may not have been conventional, may have had its own speed bumps, but to me it seemed real and had the potential to continue long term if it wouldn’t have been abruptly terminated due to George’s death. Having the privilege to take a peak into this duo’s relationship and their lives was fascinating and I loved every minute of it.
I did not know much about this affair before reading this book, sad I know, but I have already started researching their respective histories as well as combined. A great historical novel will give one a thrilling narrative, but it will also give the reader a new insight into something that is new to them and inspires them to learn more. This novel has done just that.
I highly recommend. 5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Gallery Books for this excellent arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Instagram, and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/2/21.
February 21, 2021
What a rare and enchanted novel about the great George Gershwin and his music, and the gifted, alluring composer Kay Swift who loved him! At this time when we have lost so much of the crowds and arts of New York City, we can fall back into the jazz age in these pages. And what a wonder it is! Make yourself a Prohibition cocktail, put on "Rhapsody in Blue," and get ready for a unique journey.
February 5, 2021
This was one of those books that is too erudite for its own good. Don’t get me wrong , I like an intelligent author and book but here the intelligence and the erudition(about music, art, history, etc...) overwhelms the story about Swift and her romance with Gershwin. It’s a shame because Kaplan can write and knows his stuff. If he concentrated more on the story and pace, this could’ve been a great book. As it is its not a bad book. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
January 24, 2021
I so tried to get into this story but it just didn't hold my attention. I'm sure it's a delightful novel but just not for me.
There didn't seem any passion or emotion
There didn't seem any passion or emotion
March 27, 2021
Find this review at Forever Lost in Literature!
Although I've read a few books set during the Jazz Age of New York City, I've never read anything that includes the lives of the musicians Katharine "Kay" Swift and George Gershwin. Actually, in general, the only person I'd heard of prior to this book was Gerswhin, and I had no knowledge of Kay or her husband's roles--which of course made me that much more intrigued by the premise!
The narrative largely follows Kay and starts off in 1924 before jumping back to 1917 to begin Kay's story anew. Kay is a woman that I would describe as being rather complex and ambitious, as well as someone with an abundance of passion and passion for what she loves. I loved learning about her connection to her music and about her past before meeting Gershwin and beginning their rather tumultuous and controversial affair.
We get to meet such a wide variety of characters, both well-known and not, and I loved how dynamic this cast was and how much it brought the entire setting to life. The dialogue and interactions between characters felt very fitting for the time period and I found myself becoming interested in almost all the characters we meet, whether main character or side character. In particular, it was of great interest to get to know Kaplan's depiction of Gershwin and Kay's husband, James Warburg, through their interactions and relationships with Kay and the world around them.
I don't personally know all that much about the figures presented in this book, but it seems apparent that Kaplan put a great deal of time and research into developing this story and portraying his characters. Kaplan also does an excellent job of creating an immersive atmosphere of the time period, especially when Kay visits various places and explores the Jazz Age of the period. Something that I always love and hope for in any historical novel is getting to hear about current issues of the time through the lenses of whatever characters, class status, or setting we follow in the main narrative, and I was so pleased to get these glimpses with this book as well.
It took me a little while to fully get into this book, but once I got to know the characters and setting I found myself full captured by this story. Kaplan has an oddly unique style of writing in that there's something about it that feels slightly elevated and also very poised and exact. The author clearly knows what they're doing and also knows how to craft a narrative style that matches the tone of the book and the characters and themes explored within, and I really enjoyed how much this helped to cement the atmosphere and setting of the novel.
Overall, I've given Rhapsody four stars! If you enjoy historical fiction--especially learning about lesser known historical figures--then this is absolutely a book I would recommend!
Although I've read a few books set during the Jazz Age of New York City, I've never read anything that includes the lives of the musicians Katharine "Kay" Swift and George Gershwin. Actually, in general, the only person I'd heard of prior to this book was Gerswhin, and I had no knowledge of Kay or her husband's roles--which of course made me that much more intrigued by the premise!
The narrative largely follows Kay and starts off in 1924 before jumping back to 1917 to begin Kay's story anew. Kay is a woman that I would describe as being rather complex and ambitious, as well as someone with an abundance of passion and passion for what she loves. I loved learning about her connection to her music and about her past before meeting Gershwin and beginning their rather tumultuous and controversial affair.
We get to meet such a wide variety of characters, both well-known and not, and I loved how dynamic this cast was and how much it brought the entire setting to life. The dialogue and interactions between characters felt very fitting for the time period and I found myself becoming interested in almost all the characters we meet, whether main character or side character. In particular, it was of great interest to get to know Kaplan's depiction of Gershwin and Kay's husband, James Warburg, through their interactions and relationships with Kay and the world around them.
I don't personally know all that much about the figures presented in this book, but it seems apparent that Kaplan put a great deal of time and research into developing this story and portraying his characters. Kaplan also does an excellent job of creating an immersive atmosphere of the time period, especially when Kay visits various places and explores the Jazz Age of the period. Something that I always love and hope for in any historical novel is getting to hear about current issues of the time through the lenses of whatever characters, class status, or setting we follow in the main narrative, and I was so pleased to get these glimpses with this book as well.
It took me a little while to fully get into this book, but once I got to know the characters and setting I found myself full captured by this story. Kaplan has an oddly unique style of writing in that there's something about it that feels slightly elevated and also very poised and exact. The author clearly knows what they're doing and also knows how to craft a narrative style that matches the tone of the book and the characters and themes explored within, and I really enjoyed how much this helped to cement the atmosphere and setting of the novel.
Overall, I've given Rhapsody four stars! If you enjoy historical fiction--especially learning about lesser known historical figures--then this is absolutely a book I would recommend!
February 19, 2021
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I loved “Rhapsody” for its historical details, captivating characters, and whirlwind romance.
Firstly, I applaud the author for the number of details added. As a fan of the golden age of cinema, I LOVED all the references the author makes to pop culture during that time. There were so many beautiful moments of Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Alfred A. Knoph, Dick Rodgers, and many more. I felt like I was reliving the era with the characters. Moreover, the author seamlessly blends the details into the storyline, which made this a memorable experience. Furthermore, I didn’t even know about Kay Swift (the real-life person) until I read this story, which made me enjoy it even more.
The characters are mesmerizing and larger than life. Katherine, George, and Jimmy stand out in their roles, and I love something about each of them. Katherine was the most complex because my feelings for her gravitated. At times, I loved her aspirations and ambitions. Sometimes, I felt terrible for how her relationships failed, but at other times, I got frustrated for her going back into the same loop. Jimmy and George have contrasting personalities but share similar traits when it comes to Katherine. However, I did root for Jimmy because he seemed to become a better person once he found out about Kay and George.
Moreover, the author provides a few shocking twists, like the scenes with Dr. Zilbooy or how her daughter April gets angry at Kay. Also, the author adds exciting discussions about slavery, war, and racism. These gave the story a personal touch with exciting perspectives on how people perceived it back in the day.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed “Rhapsody” and feel it is one of the best contemporary historical novels surrounding the music industry.
March 2, 2021
I inhaled this wonderful read! Katherine Swift was a classical pianist, well trained and relatively successful. She married a wealthy and influential man, had children, and then met George Gershwin. George began calling her Kay, and his influence changed her music as well as her name.
Kay began writing show tunes and acting as a helpmate to George. They eventually became involved in a complicated love affair, and along the way, in their busy cosmopolitan lifestyle, the reader becomes acquainted with the rich and famous of the day.
Swift and Gershwin socialized with many of the well known figures of the day. Among their acquaintances were Maurice Ravel, Nadia Boulanger, FDR, Al Jolson, Rodgers and Hart, Fred and Adele Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Duke Ellington, among many, many others. The story of Porgy and Bess and its controversies were fascinating. The life of those working on Broadway as well as in venues for both classical music and jazz was engrossing. Looks at current events during that era were compelling, including the Depression, Prohibition, the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, and race relations.
I highly recommend this wonderful book to lovers of historical fiction and music. It’s well researched and a wonderful story.
I’m grateful that this ebook was supplied to me by NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Kay began writing show tunes and acting as a helpmate to George. They eventually became involved in a complicated love affair, and along the way, in their busy cosmopolitan lifestyle, the reader becomes acquainted with the rich and famous of the day.
Swift and Gershwin socialized with many of the well known figures of the day. Among their acquaintances were Maurice Ravel, Nadia Boulanger, FDR, Al Jolson, Rodgers and Hart, Fred and Adele Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Duke Ellington, among many, many others. The story of Porgy and Bess and its controversies were fascinating. The life of those working on Broadway as well as in venues for both classical music and jazz was engrossing. Looks at current events during that era were compelling, including the Depression, Prohibition, the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, and race relations.
I highly recommend this wonderful book to lovers of historical fiction and music. It’s well researched and a wonderful story.
I’m grateful that this ebook was supplied to me by NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 18, 2021
Rhapsody is a showstopper. On one hand, it's a story you've probably never heard before: the story of Kay Swift/Warburg, talented pianist, who rises to fame as a composer when she falls head-long for George Gershwin, the daring and innovative composer whose Rhapsody in Blue was unlike anything anyone had ever heard before. On the other hand, it's a story many of us will be familiar with: girl falls in love (with her husband, Jimmy Warburg), and marriage is not what they expected. She meets George Gershwin and is swept off her feet again. Kay is constantly battling between the family and status she has with Jimmy and their three girls, and the freedom and love she longs for with George.
Mitchell James Kaplan's writing manages to bring the sounds of Gershwin and Swift to life with evocative descriptions like, "the klezmer-style clarinet wail at the beginning of [George's] earlier Rhapsody in Blue." Read this book if you love Broadway. Read this book if you love music. Read this book if you want a great story.
Mitchell James Kaplan's writing manages to bring the sounds of Gershwin and Swift to life with evocative descriptions like, "the klezmer-style clarinet wail at the beginning of [George's] earlier Rhapsody in Blue." Read this book if you love Broadway. Read this book if you love music. Read this book if you want a great story.
December 27, 2020
It's the roaring twenties, the jazz era, Broadway shows were alive and glistening, new musicians and composers were turning out concertos and popular music. Show tunes were being written by the likes of Rodgers and Hart as well as others and above all George Gershwin. However, before that we find Katherine "Kay" Swift a graduate from The Institute of Musical Art, a student of classical music.
It's 1917 and Kay is part of the Edith Rubel Trio that played music at society parties and soirees. It was at one of these parties that she met her husband James "Jimmy" Warburg, a son of a wealthy banker, Paul Warburg who created the Federal Reserve. Kay's background was totally different from Jimmy's...living with her widowed mother theirs was a background of "gentle" poverty, while Kay was Christian and Jimmy was Jewish. But no matter in 1918 they wed, despite Jimmy's father opposing the marriage.
Flash forward to 1925; Kay now knows of her husband's infidelities and as yet she has not made a name for herself in the world of classical music. As a couple they are surrounded with those who were famous at that time. At parties given at their home many leading artists could be found at their dinner table...Fred Astaire and his sister Adele, George Kaufman among others. It was at this point in time she first heard Gershwin play at his Rhapsody in Blues concert. Trying to recreate what she heard at her own piano at home, she was disturbed to find it was different from anything she learned as a classical pianist. She was fascinated. With Kay's less than maternal abilities and the knowledge of her husband's affairs, it was easy for her to find an escape from her marriage. Enter George Gershwin!
Gershwin is a musical genius. He eats, lives, dreams and writes music. He hears what no one else hears in the beat of humanity. With music as his only real love, his affairs are of a casual nature. At the risk of leaving her married life behind, Kay not only becomes enraptured with Gershwin, but wraps her life around him. Together they form a partnership where she could showcase her talent and "celebrate" an affair with this musical talent.
In April 1929 a song composed by Kay with lyrics written by her husband becomes a hit and she is truly acknowledged! In October of 1929 both Kay and Jimmy write a Broadway musical called "Fine and Dandy" Kay finally proved herself, leaving her first love, classical music behind.
You would think that Kaplan was a "fly on the wall" his writing is absolutely incredible! His descriptions of the famous supporting members of this novel were "phenomenal." There are so many words I could use to describe how I felt reading this book...I inhaled it, I absorbed it...amazing! Highly recommended.
My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars
https://bookreviewsbylulu.blogspot.com/
It's 1917 and Kay is part of the Edith Rubel Trio that played music at society parties and soirees. It was at one of these parties that she met her husband James "Jimmy" Warburg, a son of a wealthy banker, Paul Warburg who created the Federal Reserve. Kay's background was totally different from Jimmy's...living with her widowed mother theirs was a background of "gentle" poverty, while Kay was Christian and Jimmy was Jewish. But no matter in 1918 they wed, despite Jimmy's father opposing the marriage.
Flash forward to 1925; Kay now knows of her husband's infidelities and as yet she has not made a name for herself in the world of classical music. As a couple they are surrounded with those who were famous at that time. At parties given at their home many leading artists could be found at their dinner table...Fred Astaire and his sister Adele, George Kaufman among others. It was at this point in time she first heard Gershwin play at his Rhapsody in Blues concert. Trying to recreate what she heard at her own piano at home, she was disturbed to find it was different from anything she learned as a classical pianist. She was fascinated. With Kay's less than maternal abilities and the knowledge of her husband's affairs, it was easy for her to find an escape from her marriage. Enter George Gershwin!
Gershwin is a musical genius. He eats, lives, dreams and writes music. He hears what no one else hears in the beat of humanity. With music as his only real love, his affairs are of a casual nature. At the risk of leaving her married life behind, Kay not only becomes enraptured with Gershwin, but wraps her life around him. Together they form a partnership where she could showcase her talent and "celebrate" an affair with this musical talent.
In April 1929 a song composed by Kay with lyrics written by her husband becomes a hit and she is truly acknowledged! In October of 1929 both Kay and Jimmy write a Broadway musical called "Fine and Dandy" Kay finally proved herself, leaving her first love, classical music behind.
You would think that Kaplan was a "fly on the wall" his writing is absolutely incredible! His descriptions of the famous supporting members of this novel were "phenomenal." There are so many words I could use to describe how I felt reading this book...I inhaled it, I absorbed it...amazing! Highly recommended.
My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars
https://bookreviewsbylulu.blogspot.com/
February 22, 2021
I was lucky enough to get an early copy of this--the minute I heard the premise, I was IN. And it absolutely delivered! A terrific, fascinating story.
December 31, 2020
Mitchell James Kaplan has written a book that delves into the life of high society and Broadway musicals as he acquaints us with George Gershwin's muse, Kay Swift. Katharine "Kay" Swift Warburg is the first woman to compose a hit musical. Classically trained in piano, Katharine is languishing as a high society wife when she meets George Gershwin, and her life forever changes. She is drawn into modern music, composition, and Broadway. Together, Kay and her husband write songs and finance Broadway musicals. Her continual collaboration with George has her reexamining her life. How she copes with challenges and expectations illustrates her unique outlook on life.
Rhapsody is a beautifully related story offering an eye-opening look at the behind-the-scenes love story of George Gershwin and Kay Swift. Kaplan doesn't romanticize, he delivers a clear view of the influence of music, success, and love. He will capture your imagination and take you back to those famously entertaining musicals that graced Broadway. This story will enthrall you!
Rhapsody is a beautifully related story offering an eye-opening look at the behind-the-scenes love story of George Gershwin and Kay Swift. Kaplan doesn't romanticize, he delivers a clear view of the influence of music, success, and love. He will capture your imagination and take you back to those famously entertaining musicals that graced Broadway. This story will enthrall you!
February 28, 2021
"This is just... one beat in the magnificent concerto of your life."
Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan is an inspired-by-a-true-story novel about the love affair between George Gershwin and Kay Swift, two musical marvels of the 1920s-30s.
"She tried not to think about George Gershwin. About his embrace, that twinkle in his eyes, and the way he used the piano as an extension of his soul. She tried."
This impeccably well-researched tale drops readers right into the heart of Jazz Age New York. Kaplan’s staccato, rapid-fire descriptions lend a hustle-and-bustle feel to the opera houses, society galas, and delicatessens; and the small details he weaves in to the narrative make you feel like you’re there. (The pressed-tin ceilings, the Victrolas, the crystal chandeliers...) The world-building is impeccable and creates a setting you can’t help but fall in love with.
"That was New York, for better or worse: rich and poor, Italian and Jew and Irishman, rubbing elbows at the intersection of tradition and modernity."
All of this is set against a backdrop of music, and its almost-magical properties: the way it can differentiate cultures; its tendency to spur nostalgia or recall lost memories; its ability to reawaken long-dormant parts of the soul.
"She failed to notice the moment when the music persuaded her to stop thinking and just listen. What she heard then was a man pouring his heart out to the world."
Meanwhile, Kaplan composes his own thematic symphony, incorporating issues like race, class, gender, economics, social strata, and the inherent power dynamics at play in each of these spheres. He deftly incorporates the historically-accurate attitudes of racism, anti-Semitism, and the socialism-vs-capitalism debate that were so prevalent in 1920s America, yet his commentary on these attitudes (while subtle) is unmistakable.
"She asked herself how money, social standing, or marriage could degrade something as vital and supposedly resilient as friendship."
Equally fascinating is Rhapsody’s nearly-biographical treatment of real-life people and historically-accurate scenarios. I made connections to actual events and world history through this book! George Gershwin, Kay Swift, and their contemporaries were real people, with real stories, and although they both proved deeply flawed and unlikeable, the authenticity of seeing them as they were was intriguing.
"No matter how far she stretched—how much of life she gulped, how brilliantly she performed—it could never be enough."
I really, really enjoyed Rhapsody. I played George Gershwin’s music in the background as I read and sipped bubbly drinks to immerse myself in the atmosphere. (Now where you at, Netflix, with a miniseries deal?!)
——
A huge thank you to Mitchell James Kaplan, Gallery Books, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
——
Follow @letteredlibrary on Instagram!
Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan is an inspired-by-a-true-story novel about the love affair between George Gershwin and Kay Swift, two musical marvels of the 1920s-30s.
"She tried not to think about George Gershwin. About his embrace, that twinkle in his eyes, and the way he used the piano as an extension of his soul. She tried."
This impeccably well-researched tale drops readers right into the heart of Jazz Age New York. Kaplan’s staccato, rapid-fire descriptions lend a hustle-and-bustle feel to the opera houses, society galas, and delicatessens; and the small details he weaves in to the narrative make you feel like you’re there. (The pressed-tin ceilings, the Victrolas, the crystal chandeliers...) The world-building is impeccable and creates a setting you can’t help but fall in love with.
"That was New York, for better or worse: rich and poor, Italian and Jew and Irishman, rubbing elbows at the intersection of tradition and modernity."
All of this is set against a backdrop of music, and its almost-magical properties: the way it can differentiate cultures; its tendency to spur nostalgia or recall lost memories; its ability to reawaken long-dormant parts of the soul.
"She failed to notice the moment when the music persuaded her to stop thinking and just listen. What she heard then was a man pouring his heart out to the world."
Meanwhile, Kaplan composes his own thematic symphony, incorporating issues like race, class, gender, economics, social strata, and the inherent power dynamics at play in each of these spheres. He deftly incorporates the historically-accurate attitudes of racism, anti-Semitism, and the socialism-vs-capitalism debate that were so prevalent in 1920s America, yet his commentary on these attitudes (while subtle) is unmistakable.
"She asked herself how money, social standing, or marriage could degrade something as vital and supposedly resilient as friendship."
Equally fascinating is Rhapsody’s nearly-biographical treatment of real-life people and historically-accurate scenarios. I made connections to actual events and world history through this book! George Gershwin, Kay Swift, and their contemporaries were real people, with real stories, and although they both proved deeply flawed and unlikeable, the authenticity of seeing them as they were was intriguing.
"No matter how far she stretched—how much of life she gulped, how brilliantly she performed—it could never be enough."
I really, really enjoyed Rhapsody. I played George Gershwin’s music in the background as I read and sipped bubbly drinks to immerse myself in the atmosphere. (Now where you at, Netflix, with a miniseries deal?!)
——
A huge thank you to Mitchell James Kaplan, Gallery Books, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
——
Follow @letteredlibrary on Instagram!
February 21, 2021
I am really glad that I jumped on this tour to do a review. I had never heard of Katharine “Kay” Swift or George Gershwin before and it was very interesting to read about them, knowing they were real people. There were other people referenced that I have read about before, Josephine Baker for one. These people were known in the music world, and often mingled among the elite of that time- but it was for their talent in music. It was not because they were chummy with them, they just wanted their talents in the background of their parties.
Katharine marries a wealthy banker, against his fathers wishes and they soon have a family, James is often off traveling for work and Katharine has become swept up in the life of a wife and mother. She still does concerts but not as she used to before the children were born, and she is known but she is not known at the same time. She is talented but not enough to stand out amongst the others. One night they go and see George Gershwin preform and Katharine doesn’t feel she really knows or understand music anymore. George seemed to break all laws, rules and guides with his music and yet it was beautiful, mesmerizing and captivating. Katharine must find a way to capture his technique, to play it herself.
James has not been the perfect husband, and Katharine has looked the other way and not understood how he could do this, but then her and George started spending time together. Is it right of her to do this, is it getting back at him? Will it make her feel better and what about James? Will he even care? The three have kind of a strange but understanding relationship with each other and George becomes intertwined into their lives, as well as their girls lives. It might seem strange to others, but it seems to work for them. George is not one to be tied down, James has his fun on the side, without it meaning anything and now Katharine is stuck in the middle.
Although Katharine often struggles with the right and wrong of her relationship with George, as well as its real meaning, she is also catapulted further into the music world. James surprises her with poems and lyrics himself and the three of them often are a push for the other. Although the country is struggling, prohibition, talk of war with Stalin and Russia, and a depression looming ahead the music world still thrives.
This was a very interesting novel. There was a lot of historical events that were covered during this time frame and it just amazes me how different people lived only a hundred years ago. I really enjoyed reading about this side of the arts and these people who helped to change music. Helped to shape it into it being whatever you want it to be, as long as it has meaning. Thank you to the author, and HFVBT for the invite to the tour.
Katharine marries a wealthy banker, against his fathers wishes and they soon have a family, James is often off traveling for work and Katharine has become swept up in the life of a wife and mother. She still does concerts but not as she used to before the children were born, and she is known but she is not known at the same time. She is talented but not enough to stand out amongst the others. One night they go and see George Gershwin preform and Katharine doesn’t feel she really knows or understand music anymore. George seemed to break all laws, rules and guides with his music and yet it was beautiful, mesmerizing and captivating. Katharine must find a way to capture his technique, to play it herself.
James has not been the perfect husband, and Katharine has looked the other way and not understood how he could do this, but then her and George started spending time together. Is it right of her to do this, is it getting back at him? Will it make her feel better and what about James? Will he even care? The three have kind of a strange but understanding relationship with each other and George becomes intertwined into their lives, as well as their girls lives. It might seem strange to others, but it seems to work for them. George is not one to be tied down, James has his fun on the side, without it meaning anything and now Katharine is stuck in the middle.
Although Katharine often struggles with the right and wrong of her relationship with George, as well as its real meaning, she is also catapulted further into the music world. James surprises her with poems and lyrics himself and the three of them often are a push for the other. Although the country is struggling, prohibition, talk of war with Stalin and Russia, and a depression looming ahead the music world still thrives.
This was a very interesting novel. There was a lot of historical events that were covered during this time frame and it just amazes me how different people lived only a hundred years ago. I really enjoyed reading about this side of the arts and these people who helped to change music. Helped to shape it into it being whatever you want it to be, as long as it has meaning. Thank you to the author, and HFVBT for the invite to the tour.
April 13, 2021
Rhapsody is historical fiction about the real life relationship between pianist Kay Swift and composer George Gershwin. Kay Swift was raised by British parents in New York City in the early 20th century. Her parents weren't well off but they still manage to foster Kay's talent for the piano by sending her to school for it (to a school that later became Julliard). As a young adult, Kay worked as part of a musical trio that played events and parties. It was through one such part that she met the man that would become her future husband, Jame Warburg. James was a wealthy banker with a penchant for the arts. He and Kay got married and had kids. Kay yearns for more recognition for her musical talent. And then one day in the 1920's she meets George Gershwin, the famed composer and is drawn to him. The two quickly form a bond and even have a relationship since Kay & James agreed to have an open marriage. George brought much joy and tumult to Kay's life and she felt torn between her family and the man who shared her musical passion.
This is one of those works of historical fiction that actually taught me something. I knew very little about George Gershwin, and honestly had not heard of Kay Swift before. Kay went on to achieve some success of her own as a Broadway composer. The book contained lots of references to people who were famous at the time along with nods to historical events that occurred at the time, such as Hitler's rise to power. This was both an entertaining and informative read for me.
What to listen to while reading...
The works of George Gershwin and Kay Swift, of course!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
This is one of those works of historical fiction that actually taught me something. I knew very little about George Gershwin, and honestly had not heard of Kay Swift before. Kay went on to achieve some success of her own as a Broadway composer. The book contained lots of references to people who were famous at the time along with nods to historical events that occurred at the time, such as Hitler's rise to power. This was both an entertaining and informative read for me.
What to listen to while reading...
The works of George Gershwin and Kay Swift, of course!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
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