We regret to inform that on July 11, 1937, noted United States composer George Gershwin passed away at the age of 38. Born in Brooklyn, New York, into the family of Russian immigrants, Gershwin began his musical career in 1912, when he was only 17. He introduced a new style of music known as “Jazz Improvisation” which blended classical music with blues. Gershwin made his mark composing many popular songs such as “Rhapsody in Blue”, “I Got Rhythm”, “Fascinating Rhythm”, “Swanee”, “Embraceable You”, and “A Foggy Day”. He was also responsible for the production of 11 Broadway musicals, such as Lady Be Good and Strike Up the Band, as well as writing the music for musical films including Shall We Dance and Delightful Weather. He won three Academy Award nominations, and in 2000, was given a posthumous lifetime achievement award from the National Foundation for Popular Song. Gershwin’s influence on the development of American music will be felt for many years to come by those around the world. He will be missed.