George Gershwin

George Gershwin was amongst one of the most significant and popular music composers for Broadway musicals. He wrote music for both Broadway and classical pieces that connected him to the wider public. With a major influence of jazz standards, Gershwin wrote compositions for films and for televisions. He was a man with a magnetic personality who approached every assignment with equal vigor and enthusiasm. Gershwin was often cited for his genius in melody and harmony and he was amongst the few great composers to make a lasting impression in classical music. Although Gershwin died young, his orchestral works and performances gave Gershwin the status he longed for during his lifetime. One of the great musicologists of the time Hans Keller stated that “Gershwin is a genius, in fact, whose style hides the wealth and complexity of his invention. There are indeed weak spots, but who cares about them when there is greatness?” Such was the musical magnitude of Gershwin. Even though he left the world early, at an age of 38, his music exhibits his lasting greatness.