Ira Gershwin (1886–1983)

Musicians who love the music of George and Ira Gershwin -- if such still exist -- would find this collection to be invaluable. It contains piano music and lyrics to 41 Gershwin numbers, from musicals and movies of the 1920s and 1930s. The piano music is of average difficulty, and readily sight-read by a competent musician. Among the songs included are the following: The Man I Love, Fascinating Rhythm, Someone to Watch Over me, Embraceable You, I Got Rhythm, Let's Call the Whole Thing Off, A show more Foggy Day, It Ain't Necessarily So, They Can't Take That Away From Me, Our Love is Here to Stay, Swanee,, Somebody Loves Me, and Summertime. Fans of rock performer Janis Joplin will be familiar with the last two numbers. Others used to be heard in nightclubs and cocktail lounges in the 1950s through 70s. If they are not still, it's to our detriment. show less

The art alone makes this book worth the read. A fitting introduction or extension to Gershwin or Porgy and Bess. I lean toward the introductory approach because the text is so enterable.

This stunningly beautiful book contains lovely images of summertime.

These are gentle images of a happy family relaxing on the porch, drinking lemonade. The windows are open allowing a gentle breeze to enter. A lovely young girl has lost a tooth and she smiles as she jumps in her pretty church dress, wearing Baby Jane shoes and lacy socks! A smiling young man is singing his heart out in church!

Soaking in the delightful images was just what I needed!

I have always enjoyed singing “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess; so when I saw there was a book based on the song, I wanted to see how the pictures depicted the lyrics. The book tells the story of summer, and how until you grow up your parents will be there to protect you. Also, some of the pictures describe how summertime is the time to relax, and go fishing.