Middle School
Worksheets
George and Ira Gershwin: Musical Teamwork
George and Ira Gershwin influenced America's musical history and contributed greatly to the growth of American musical comedy. You may have heard songs from some of their well-known shows, such as Porgy and Bess or Of Thee I Sing; George's classical piece, Rhapsody in Blue, or popular jazz songs such as I've Got Rhythm. Together, George and Ira wrote more than 24 scores, with George concentrating on the music and Ira on the lyrics. Though Ira was the older of the two, he lived much longer than George did. He lived to be 86, having been born in 1896 and passing away in 1983. George, unfortunately, succumbed to a brain tumor in 1937, while his career was in full-swing. He was only 38. Even so, he is considered the richest composer of all time.
George first became interested in music at 10 years old. Ironically, his parents had purchased a piano hoping Ira would learn to play. Instead, George began taking lessons, eventually leaving high school at 15 to continue to pursue music. Over the years, he developed into an accomplished pianist and composer and became more and more well-known for his work. In particular, the song "Swanee" performed by jazz great Al Jolson brought him great recognition.
Ira became interested in writing lyrics, and for some time, wrote under the name of "Arthur Frances" so as not to tread on the growing fame of his brother. (Arthur and Frances were George and Ira's brother and sister.) However, in 1924, the two brothers began working together publicly. That year, they produced the Broadway hit, Lady Be Good!, which featured Fred and Adele Astaire. They continued to work together until George passed away.
