The Gershwin Songbook Tickets

The Gershwin Songbook is a collection of popular songs written by brothers George and Ira Gershwin during the early 20th century. These songs are an integral part of American music history, with their unique blend of jazz, blues, and classical influences.

Despite being categorized as popular music, many of the songs found in The Gershwin Songbook share qualities with classical music. This is due to the fact that George Gershwin was classically trained, having studied with renowned composer and teacher Charles Hambitzer.

One of the hallmarks of classical music is its adherence to strict rules of musical form, harmony, and melody. Similarly, Gershwin’s songs often contain complex harmonic structures, intricate melodic lines, and unconventional song forms.

For example, the song “Summertime” from the opera Porgy and Bess is a perfect example of a piece that combines both classical and popular elements. The song’s haunting melody and lush harmonies are a testament to Gershwin's understanding of classical composition, while its lyrics and catchy tune have made it a beloved standard of the American songbook.

Additionally, Gershwin’s use of orchestration and instrumentation reflects classical music traditions. He often employed larger ensembles, including brass and woodwind sections, and was known for using muted and plucked strings to create a range of timbres and textures in his compositions.

Overall, The Gershwin Songbook is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Gershwin brothers and their impact on American music. While these songs may be classified as popular music, their incorporation of classical techniques continues to make them timeless classics to this day.