George Gershwin

Date of Birth: September 26, 1898

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: July 11, 1937

Biography

George Gershwin, born Jacob Gershowitz, was an American composer and pianist who became one of the most significant figures in American music history. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Gershwin’s compositions spanned both popular and classical genres, and his works are still celebrated today for their innovative integration of jazz and classical music styles. Gershwin’s career took off at a young age, and by his twenties, he had already achieved significant success with his Broadway musicals and hit songs. His most famous works include the opera “Porgy and Bess,” the orchestral compositions “Rhapsody in Blue” and “An American in Paris,” and numerous popular songs like “I Got Rhythm” and “Summertime.” Gershwin’s ability to blend different musical styles made him a pioneering figure in American music, influencing countless composers and musicians. In his personal life, Gershwin was known for his charisma and sociability, often mingling with the elite circles of New York and Hollywood. Despite his success, his life was tragically cut short when he died of a brain tumor at the age of 38.

5 Interesting Facts about George Gershwin

1. Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” premiered in 1924 and is considered one of his masterpieces, successfully merging classical music with jazz influences.

2. He collaborated frequently with his older brother, Ira Gershwin, who was a renowned lyricist.

3. George Gershwin briefly studied under the composer and music theorist Joseph Schillinger, which greatly influenced his compositional techniques.

4. “Porgy and Bess,” one of his most ambitious works, was initially met with mixed reviews but is now recognized as one of the greatest American operas.

5. Despite his classical training, Gershwin was primarily self-taught in terms of jazz and popular music, learning through playing piano rolls and working as a “song plugger” on Tin Pan Alley.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Gershwin

1. “Life is a lot like jazz… it’s best when you improvise.”

2. “True music must repeat the thought and inspirations of the people and the time. My people are Americans. My time is today.”

3. “I frequently hear music in the very heart of noise.”

4. “Why should I limit myself to only one woman when I can have as many as I want?”

5. “I think there’s a great deal to be said for developing the ear and the heart. The rest can be learned more easily.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, George Gershwin’s net worth was estimated to be around $250,000, which would be worth approximately $4.5 million today when adjusted for inflation.