George Gershwin (1898-1937) was an American composer and pianist, one of the defining figures in the meeting of popular song, jazz and concert music. His music changed the sound of American modernity.

In the Pristine catalogue he appears as an artist in The First Recordings, preserving composer-linked performances and early documents around his music.

Gershwin’s own pianism was rhythmically alive, urbane and sharply individual. It gives invaluable evidence of how his musical language moved before later tradition polished the edges.

His page is justified because performer and composer are inseparable here. Gershwin at the keyboard is Manhattan with sleeves rolled up.