Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life (1935)
A rising nineteen-year-old singer by the name of Billie Holiday made her screen debut in this musical landmark, which features Duke Ellington and his orchestra performing his symphonic jazz piece “A Rhapsody of Negro Life” set to scenes of everyday African American life.
Director: Fred Waller
Genre: Music, Drama
Runtime: 9 min
Release Date: September 12, 1935
Cast
- Duke Ellington - Self
- Billie Holiday - Self - Blues Singer (uncredited)
- Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker - Jilting lover / specialty dancer (uncredited)
- Barney Bigard - Self - Clarinet (uncredited)
- Joe 'Tricky Sam' Nanton - Self - Trombone (uncredited)
Screenplay
Music: Duke Ellington
Cinematography: William O. Steiner
Production: Paramount Pictures
Country: United States of America
Language: English
Original Language: en
Themes
Jazz Piano and Improvisation Master, Jazz and Blues Soul, Jazz Club: Improvisation and the Soul's Voice, Vocal Jazz and Soulful Night Club Vibe, Jazz and Blues Soul
Keywords
jazz
More Films by Director: Fred Waller
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life about?
- A rising nineteen-year-old singer by the name of Billie Holiday made her screen debut in this musical landmark, which features Duke Ellington and his orchestra performing his symphonic jazz piece “A Rhapsody of Negro Life” set to scenes of everyday African American life.
- Who directed Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life?
- Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life was directed by Fred Waller.
- Who stars in Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life?
- Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life stars Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker, Barney Bigard, Joe 'Tricky Sam' Nanton.
- How long is Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life?
- Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life has a runtime of 9m (9 minutes).
- What genre is Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life?
- Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life is a Music, Drama film.
- Where was Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life produced?
- Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life was produced in United States of America.
- What are the themes of Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life?
- The themes of Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life include: Jazz Piano and Improvisation Master, Jazz and Blues Soul, Jazz Club: Improvisation and the Soul's Voice, Vocal Jazz and Soulful Night Club Vibe, Jazz and Blues Soul.