What jazz elements did George Gershwin use in Rhapsody in Blue?

In his landmark composition Rhapsody in Blue, George Gershwin successfully integrated several key elements of the jazz idiom into a symphonic context to challenge the misconception that jazz was limited to strict dance rhythms.12

The specific jazz elements incorporated into the work include:

• Blue notes: These characteristic flattened notes, which deviate from the standard major scale, are a hallmark of the jazz style.1
• Syncopated rhythms: Gershwin utilized these off-beat rhythmic patterns to create the energetic, driving feel associated with jazz.1
• Onomatopoeic instrumental effects: The piece features unique instrumental techniques that mimic vocal or environmental sounds, most notably the iconic opening clarinet glissando.12

By blending these features with classical structures, Gershwin aimed to elevate jazz and demonstrate its artistic potential beyond its popular perception at the time.1