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New Publication: The Gershwins Abroad Edited by Michael Owen for The George and Ira Gershwin Critical Edition

Dec. 20, 2024

On March 10, 1928, the celebrated American lyricist Ira Gershwin and his wife Leonore set sail for Europe aboard a luxury ocean liner, accompanied by Ira’s brother George, the esteemed composer of Rhapsody in Blue, and his sister Frances (“Frankie”). Over the course of the next several months, Ira recorded their experiences visiting five countries during the height of the American expatriate period in Europe.

Ira’s extensive account of their travels includes vivid – oftentimes humorous – descriptions of the numerous parties given for the Gershwins; the concerts of George’s compositions and his work on the tone poem An American in Paris; meetings with such artistic luminaries as Sergei Prokofiev and Alban Berg; encounters with members of high society; Ira’s wide-ranging choice of reading material; and entertaining anecdotes about the food and drink consumed along the way, so different from that available in Prohibition-era New York City.

This notebook has been a valuable archival source for previous scholarship on the Gershwins, and now it appears, in full, for the first time in print. Ira Gershwin’s biographer, Michael Owen, who has been the archivist and historian for the Ira and Leonore Gershwin Trusts since 2005, has provided illuminating commentary and annotations to guide us through the Gershwins’ European journey.

Click here to order The Gershwins Abroad.

The Gershwin Critical Edition is a groundbreaking undertaking that will provide the first scholarly edition of the music and lyrics of George and Ira Gershwin. With an emphasis on historical research and editorial accuracy, this edition will provide conductors, musicians, performers, scholars, and audiences with invaluable insights into the Gershwin brothers' original material and present performance materials that faithfully reflect the creators' vision. From iconic works such as Porgy and Bess, Rhapsody in Blue, An American in Paris, and Concerto in F to the scores composed for beloved Broadway and Hollywood musicals, this comprehensive collection showcases the Gershwins' immense contribution to the American musical landscape. 

The meticulous editing of this critical edition delicately balances the intricate blend of classical, jazz, blues, and popular song traditions found in the Gershwins' music, while respecting the nuanced conventions of different musical notations. Working with performers, orchestras, and conductors, the Gershwin Critical Edition aims to produce scholarly yet practical editions suitable for performance in concert halls and theaters worldwide. Rehearsal performances with professional ensembles play a vital role in shaping these editions, ensuring an authentic representation of the creators' work. 

Click here to download a PDF of the Gershwin Critical Edition subscription brochure or to order a printed copy.

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