Back to Show
American Masters
George Gershwin: George Gershwin Remembered
Season 2
Episode 5
George Gershwin was born in Brooklyn in 1898, the second of four children from a close-knit immigrant family. He began his musical career as a song-plugger on Tin Pan Alley, but was soon writing his own pieces. Gershwin’s first published song, “When You Want ‘Em, You Can’t Get ‘Em,” demonstrated innovative new techniques, but only earned him five dollars.
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By

1:36:59
Explore the career of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and his award-winning graphic novel Maus.

1:42:06
Take an intimate look into the life and career of screen and stage icon Liza Minnelli.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:25
Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.

Unlock with PBS Passport
52:55
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:57
Explore the story of writer Julia Alvarez, who blazed a trail for a generation of Latino authors.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:35
Explore the story of filmmaker Blake Edwards, known for his comedies like the "Pink Panther" series.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:40:39
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:43:31
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:03
Discover the secrets behind Edward Hopper’s most iconic and enigmatic works.

54:31
El artista José Clemente Orozco (1883-1945) encabezó el movimiento muralista en México.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:29
Experience the groundbreaking sounds of bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:12
Trace the life and legacy of labor activist Cesar Chavez through music and the arts.