A comprehensive biography of George Gershwin (1898-1937). It draws from sketches, manuscripts, letters, interviews, books, articles, recordings, films, and other materials—including Gershwin scores discovered in a Warner Brothers warehouse in 1982—to trace Gershwin's presence that, even today, extends from Broadway, jazz clubs, and film scores to symphony halls and opera houses. Pollack describes Gershwin's family, childhood, and education; his early career as a pianist; his friendships and romantic life; his relation to various musical trends; his writings on music; his working methods; and his tragic death at the age of 38. The author surveys Gershwin's oeuvre, from his first surviving compositions to the melodies that his brother and principal collaborator, Ira Gershwin, lyricized after his death. Pollack concludes with an exploration of the performances and critical reception of Gershwin's music over the years, from his time to ours. (publisher copy)