Cuban Overture - G. Gershwin

George Gershwin composed his 'Cuban Overture' in July and August 1932. Originally was the work titled 'Rumba' and was the result of a two-week holiday which Gershwin took in Havana, Cuba in February 1932. The overture is dominated by Caribbean rhythms and Cuban native percussion, with a wide spectrum of instrumental color and technique. It is a rich and exciting work with complexity and sophistication, illustrating the influence of Cuban music and dance. Its main theme was influenced by a then current hit by Ignacio Piñeiro, 'Échale Salsit'.