(1898-1937), composer, and Ira Gershwin (1896-1983), lyricist. The Gershwins are responsible for some of the most popular music in America. George composed songs, musical comedies, film scores, and the classic black folk opera Porgy and Bess (1935). His first concert composition, Rhapsody in Blue (1924), combined classical piano and jazz elements. Ira wrote the lyrics of most of George's songs. Their musical Of Thee I Sing won the Pulitzer Prize in 1931. Their other musicals include Funny Face (1927), Girl Crazy (1930), and An American in Paris (1928).
