Gershwin Prize
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Named in honor of the legendary George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin, the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song recognizes the profound and positive effect of popular music on the world’s culture. The prize will be given annually to a composer or performer whose lifetime contributions exemplify the standard of excellence associated with the Gershwins.
On March 1st, 2007, Paul Simon, one of America’s most respected songwriters and musicians, was announced to be the recipient of the first annual Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.
In making the announcement, Librarian of Congress James H. Billington said, “The Gershwin Prize is a milestone in the Library’s mission to recognize and celebrate creativity in order to spark imagination in this and future generations. Few songwriters have had a broader influence or contributed more to song genres than Paul Simon. Because of the depth, range and sheer beauty of his music, as well as its ability to bridge peoples and cultures, he is the perfect first recipient of this prestigious award.”
Upon being notified of receiving this honor, Simon said, “I am grateful to be the recipient of the Gershwin Prize and doubly honored to be the first. I look forward to spending an evening in the company of artists I admire at the award ceremony in May. I can think of a few who have expressed my words and music far better than I. I’m excited at the prospect of that happening again. It’s a songwriter’s dream come true.”
The First Annual Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. will be given to Paul Simon during a Concert Gala at Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. on the evening of May 23rd, 2007. The event will be nationally broadcast on PBS on the evening of June 27th, 2007.
Tickets will be available soon, in-person at the Warner Theatre Box Office, and at all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers.
- Library of Congress Official Website[1]
- Official Paul Simon Website [2]
- Paul Simon Fansite, Updated Daily [3]
