Rights for a 1930s film soundtrack

The public domain issue might only come into play if there is an original owner who hasn't renewed the rights (has happened in the past, but unlikely these days).
Also, film companies change hands quite often. So, a 1930 film's rights might well have been purchased as part of a complete movie and TV library buy-out by another company (such as Turner Broadcasting). Possibly even several times.
So, first check who the current 'owner' is, then simply ask them for their advice. Some companies are much more willing to allow such use than others. Also, cost may well depend on its intended use and the popularity of the actual film you wish to use.
Your specific use might be more complicated as you are talking music here, and that might be a different kettle of fish all together.
But yeah, I'd recommend you approach the [current] film company first.

ADDED:
Also, it wouldn't be completely unheard of, that you may use such an excerpt for free.
 
Well, you should probably start with who was the original producer and who released it. If you know the film's title, start at: http://allmovie.com or some such. Then I'd recommend to google the company that shows up there (if successful).
 
IMDB is still the best bet for film searches I believe.

If you don't mind please drop back in and give an update on how this all worked out for you, I'll be getting into the same situation soon.
 
"IMDB"

Aye, that's an excellent site for sure. Although for this instance allmovie might be better, as IMDB does not reveal production and release companies, AFAIK. (at least not in their non-professional version).
 
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