Gershwin with Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Bernstein, and more

George Gershwin, born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1898, was an American composer who blended jazz, popular, and classical music. He created iconic works like "Rhapsody in Blue," "An American in Paris," and the opera "Porgy and Bess" (featuring "Summertime"). Collaborating often with his brother Ira, he composed numerous Broadway hits. Gershwin received a Pulitzer Prize for "Of Thee I Sing" and his music remains celebrated worldwide.

Founded in 1959, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra quickly became a top U.S. ensemble under directors like Andreas Delfs, and renowned for collaborations with leading soloists. Known for its robust concert tours in Europe, Japan, and a historic Cuba visit, it boasts frequent broadcasts and celebrated recordings.

Leonard Bernstein, born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, was an iconic American conductor, composer, and educator. He seamlessly blended classical, jazz, and Broadway styles. Celebrated for "West Side Story," "Candide," and his symphonies, he garnered 16 Grammys, 7 Emmys, and 2 Tonys. As New York Philharmonic's first American-born music director, he championed music education and collaborated notably with Jerome Robbins.