Gershwin Prize
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The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song is an award given annually to a composer or performer for their lifetime contributions to popular music.[1] Created in 2007 by the Library of Congress, the prize is named for brothers George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin whose contributions to popular music included songs such as "I Got Rhythm," "Embraceable You," and "Someone to Watch Over Me," as well as the opera Porgy and Bess. The first recipient of the award was Paul Simon.[1]
[edit] History
The Gershwin prize was created and first awarded by the Library of Congress in 2007 under the leadership of Librarian of Congress James H. Billington to recognize "the profound and positive effect of popular music on the world’s culture" as part of the Library's mission to recognize and celebrate creativity. The recipient of the Gershwin Prize is said to:"exemplify the standard of excellence associated with the Gershwins." In selecting the recipient, the Librarian of Congress works with staff of the Library's Music Division as well as the broader music community.[1]
On March 1st, 2007, Paul Simon was announced as the first recipient of the new award which joins other awards bestowed by the Library including the Living Legend and Kluge Prize. The Prize was awarded to Simon during a Concert Gala featuring his music at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C., on the evening of May 23rd, 2007. The event was nationally broadcast on PBS on the evening of June 27th, 2007.[1] Performers at the concert included Shawn Colvin, Philip Glass, Alison Krauss, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Lyle Lovett, James Taylor, and Stevie Wonder as well as Simon's former collaborator Art Garfunkel.[2]
[edit] Recipients
- 2007 - Paul Simon
[edit] References
- ^ a b c d Public Affairs Office (2007-07-02). Paul Simon To Be Awarded First Annual Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by Library of Congress. Library of Congress. Retrieved on 2007-03-02.
- ^ Public Affairs Office (2007-04-23). Star-Studded Lineup Confirmed for Library of Congress Concert Honoring Gershwin Prize Recipient Paul Simon. Library of Congress. Retrieved on 2007-07-02.
