"American Jazz" a Distinct International Idiom in the Opinion of Paul Whiteman--Band Will Enter the Movies

"There is no doubt in my mind that American jazz is a distinct international idiom, and that the work of such geniuses as George Gershwin and Ferde Grofe will establish this fact," said Paul Whiteman to a CRIMSON reporter yesterday, in his suite in Symphony Hall.

Mr. Whiteman added that the consistent success that his band met with throughout its European tour convinced him that American jazz is a language that everyone understands and feels. Going into Spain. Italy, Switzerland, countries in which they were unknown, he said they received hearty applause.

"No. I am not trying to make a symphony orchestra out of my band. Why is it that every reporter annoys me with that same question? Jazz is my field. I only wish the symphonies would stay on their side of the fence. They're even writing symphony scores with saxophone parts now.

"Such popularity must be preserved," he remarked, pushing aside a pile of telegrams that lay on the table. "Put 'em in that box, Fritz," he continued, to Mr. Frederick Haas, his manager, who had just arrived on the scene.

When told that a prominent symphony orchestra conductor considered his band nothing but "a bag of tricks", Mr. Whiteman replied. "Well, tricks are all right too, if they're well done, ask Peggy Joyce."

It is whispered that Mr. Whiteman is endeavoring to reduce and that he has succeeded to the extend of 80 pounds. Whether or not this is in preparation for his debut as a silver screen artist was not accurately determined. The picture is to be a history of Mr. Whiteman and his orchestra, presented in the form of a story.