Listening (Still (Afro-American Symphony)

This composition by Still was a piece similar to Rhapsody in Blue because it combined Orchestra with a blues/jazz element. The song also uses a harmon mute with wah effect in the trumpet. This sound is very characteristic of jazz. I liked how Still composed the piece with a softer sound than Gershwin; it gives the song a more relaxed feel. Towards the first third of the piece with use of the strings and flute give the song a more romantic feel. These two separate elements go back and forth throughout the piece. At the end of the piece there is a balence between romantic elements and jazz. I enjoyed this composition's innovation an relaxed emotions.