Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

December 12, 1896 in Bialystok, Russia

Death

:

June 14, 1990 in New York City, NY

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Jay Gorney was an American composer and songwriter who was born on December 12, 1896, in Bialystok, Poland. He was the son of a cantor and grew up in a musical family. Gorney's family immigrated to the United States when he was a child, settling in New York City. He began studying music at a young age and showed a natural talent for composition. Gorney attended New York University and the Institute of Musical Art (now known as the Juilliard School). He studied composition with Rubin Goldmark and Percy Goetschius. After completing his studies, Gorney began working as a composer and songwriter in the music industry. Gorney's early works were primarily popular songs, and he had his first hit in 1928 with "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?" The song, which he co-wrote with lyricist E.Y. Harburg, became an anthem of the Great Depression and was covered by many artists over the years. In the 1930s, Gorney began to work in Hollywood, writing music for films. He composed the score for the 1933 film "42nd Street," which included the popular song "You're Getting to Be a Habit with Me." Gorney also wrote the music for the 1937 film "The Life of Emile Zola," which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Gorney continued to write popular songs throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including "Remember My Forgotten Man" and "I'll String Along with You." He also wrote the music for several Broadway shows, including "Pins and Needles" and "Let Freedom Sing." In the 1950s, Gorney began to focus more on classical music. He composed several orchestral works, including "Symphony No. 1" and "Symphony No. 2." He also wrote chamber music, including a string quartet and a piano trio. Gorney's classical works were well-received by critics, but he never achieved the same level of success as a classical composer as he did as a songwriter. However, his contributions to American music were recognized in 1972 when he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Jay Gorney died on June 14, 1990, in New York City. He left behind a legacy of popular songs and classical music that continue to be performed and enjoyed today.

More....