George Gershwin (1898–1937) is one of the most recognized American composers of the 20th century. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he exhibited his musical talent at a young age, first learning melodies on a neighbor’s player piano and then beginning his studies on an upright piano that his parents purchased for his older brother, Ira, who was an acclaimed lyricist. Gershwin began his professional music career in Tin Pan Alley as a “song plugger,” playing the piano to help publishing houses advertise and sell new music, and later playing as a rehearsal pianist for musical theater. Gershwin and his brother formed a legendary partnership, creating many notable works that include the opera Porgy and Bess. Gershwin’s compositions include both popular and classical styles, as well as works for solo piano, orchestra, musical theater, opera, and film.
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