George & Ira Gershwin

Jazz Composer

    The American brothers George (composer) and Ira (lyricist) Gershwin formed one of the most influential songwriting partnerships of the 20th century. Their innovative blend of jazz, blues, and classical elements redefined American popular song and musical theater. George's sophisticated melodies and harmonies, coupled with Ira's witty and poignant lyrics, yielded iconic works such as the opera *Porgy and Bess*, the orchestral masterpiece *Rhapsody in Blue*, and countless Broadway hits including *An American in Paris* and *Of Thee I Sing*. Their compositions remain cornerstones of the Great American Songbook, profoundly impacting jazz standards, film scores, and the broader landscape of American music.