When looking back upon American music history, one name will always
endure—George Gershwin. Throughout his brief but gratifying life, Gershwin
experienced immense success in all genres of music—solo piano pieces, piano
concertos, Broadway shows, and motion pictures. Even after his tragic death,
Gershwin’s music lives on in the hearts and lives of all Americans. In my opinion,
Gershwin is the most important American composer of our time. I find it crucial for
all music students to examine the life, legacy, and contributions of George Gershwin.