The first Gershwin Prize was given to Paul Simon – one of America’s most respected songwriters and musicians – during an all-star gala concert on Wednesday, May 23 at 8 p.m. at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. The event will be broadcast in high definition on Wednesday, June 27 at 9 p.m. EDT on PBS stations nationwide (check local listing).
Created by Dr. James H. Billington and named in honor of the legendary George and Ira Gershwin, this award 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.
To learn more about The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, visit the Library of Congress website.
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Presenters:
Bob Costas, Charles Grodin and Lorne Michaels.
