Grofé, Ferde

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Grofé, Ferde [ Grofe, Ferdinand Rudolf von] (b NY, 1892; d Santa Monica, Calif., 1972). Amer. composer, conductor, and arranger. Violist in Los Angeles SO for 10 years, also played pf. and vn. in th. bands. Work as arranger admired by the band-leader Paul Whiteman, who engaged him to arr. the symphonic jazz which was attracting attention. Thus he orchestrated Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue (1924). Wrote several works in popular symphonic idiom e.g. Mississippi Suite, Hollywood Suite, and, most popular of all, Grand Canyon Suite (1931), cond. Paul Whiteman; also 1-movt. pf. conc. (1932–59).

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