Member-only story

The World of Jerome Kern: A Musical Genius Remembered

Hugh Reed

·19.6k Followers· Follow

Published in The World Of Jerome Kern: A Biography

5 min read · 2 weeks before

160 View Claps

19 Respond

Save

Listen

The World of Jerome Kern: A Biography

by David Ewen

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7207 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Jerome Kern (1885-1945) was an American composer who left an indelible mark on the world of musical theatre. With a prolific career spanning over four decades, Kern composed some of the most beloved and enduring songs in the American songbook, including "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes", "All the Things You Are" and "The Way You Look Tonight". His groundbreaking work in musical theatre, particularly with the 1927 masterpiece "Show Boat", revolutionized the genre and paved the way for a new era of musical storytelling.

Early Life and Influences

Jerome Kern was born in New York City on January 27, 1885. His father was a successful physician, and his mother was a talented pianist who instilled in her son a deep love of music. Kern began studying the piano at an early age, and by his teenage years, he was already composing his own songs. After graduating from high school, Kern enrolled at the New York College of Music, where he studied composition and orchestration.

During his formative years, Kern was influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including classical music, ragtime and popular songs of the day. He was particularly drawn to the works of European operetta composers such as Franz Lehar and Sigmund Romberg. These influences would later be reflected in Kern's own compositions, which often combined elements of classical music with the popular styles of the time.

Broadway Breakthrough

In 1904, Kern made his Broadway debut with the musical "The Red Petticoat". Although the show was not a critical or commercial success, it did provide Kern with valuable experience and connections in the theatre world. Over the next few years, he continued to write for Broadway, but it was not until 1915 that he achieved his first major hit with the musical "Very Good Eddie".

"Very Good Eddie" was a light-hearted musical comedy that showcased Kern's gift for melody and his ability to create memorable characters. The show ran for over 300 performances and established Kern as one of the leading composers on Broadway.

"Show Boat" and Musical Revolution

In 1927, Jerome Kern composed the score for the musical "Show Boat", which would become one of the most significant and influential works in the history of musical theatre. With a book by Oscar Hammerstein II, "Show Boat" tells the story of a Mississippi riverboat captain and his family over the course of several decades.

"Show Boat" was groundbreaking in many ways. It was one of the first musicals to deal with serious social issues, such as race and class conflict. It also featured a score that was both emotionally resonant and musically complex. Songs like "Ol' Man River", "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man" and "Make Believe" have become classics of the American songbook.

"Show Boat" was a critical and commercial success, running for over 500 performances on Broadway. It has been revived numerous times over the years and has been adapted into several films and television productions.

Later Career and Legacy

Following the success of "Show Boat", Jerome Kern continued to write for Broadway and Hollywood. He composed the scores for such notable musicals as "The Cat and the Fiddle" (1931),"Roberta" (1933) and "Swing Time" (1936). He also wrote songs for several classic films, including "The Wizard of Oz" (1939) and "Cover Girl" (1944).

Jerome Kern died in 1945 at the age of 60. He left behind a legacy of over 700 songs, many of which have become standards in the American songbook. His work has been performed by countless singers and musicians over the years, and his influence can still be heard in contemporary musical theatre.

Jerome Kern was a musical genius who left an unforgettable mark on the world. His songs are timeless and continue to be enjoyed by generations of listeners. His groundbreaking work in musical theatre revolutionized the genre and paved the way for a new era of musical storytelling. The World of Jerome Kern Biography is a fascinating and insightful exploration of the life and legacy of this legendary composer.

Free Download your copy today and immerse yourself in the world of Jerome Kern, a true American musical icon.

The World of Jerome Kern: A Biography

by David Ewen

4.7 out of 5