Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life
Synopsis
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.
Trailers, Teasers & Extra Featurettes
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Symphony in black--a rhapsody of Negro life
Type: Clip • Published 2020-06-19
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
September 12, 1935
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Fred Waller
- Screenplay & Story
- Fred Rath, Milton Hockey
- Original Score
- Duke Ellington
- Original Title
- Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 9m
- Production Studios
- Paramount Pictures
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Fred Waller
Fred Rath, Milton Hockey
Duke Ellington
William O. Steiner
Adolph Zukor
Department Leadership Roster
Fred Waller
Director
Adolph Zukor
Producer
Duke Ellington
Original Music Composer
Fred Rath
Writer
Milton Hockey
Writer
William O. Steiner
Director of Photography
Production Stills & Gallery
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Frequently Asked Questions About Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
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?
The principal cast of Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life includes Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker, Barney Bigard, Joe 'Tricky Sam' Nanton.
When was Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life released and how long is it?
Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life was released in 1935 with a total runtime of 9m.
Who composed the musical score for Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life was composed by Duke Ellington.