George Gershwin (1898–1937) is one of the most famous American composers of the 20th century. Born in Brooklyn, he began studying music as a boy when his parents—who were Russian immigrants—bought a piano for his older brother, Ira. Gershwin left high school to work in Tin Pan Alley in New York City as a “song plugger,” playing the piano to help publishing houses advertise and sell new music. After that, he worked as a rehearsal pianist for musical theater. Gershwin used these early experiences to build a career as a composer. Eventually he began working with his brother Ira—a lyricist—forming a legendary partnership. Gershwin was fluent in composing many styles of music, from solo piano and orchestral works to musical theater, opera, and film. His best-known works include Rhapsody in Blue and An American in Paris, and the score for the opera Porgy and Bess. Gershwin died at the early age of 38 in Hollywood, California.
“I Got Rhythm” by George and Ira Gershwin
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