Jerome Kern, born on January 27, 1885, in New York City, NY, was destined to become one of America's greatest composers. He showed a talent for music from a young age and began playing the piano at the age of 4. Kern attended Barringer High School, which was then known as Newark High School, where he honed his musical skills and composed music for the school's first musical in 1901, a minstrel show.
After high school, Kern continued to pursue his passion for music by working on amateur productions. In 1902, he collaborated on a production of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" for the Newark Yacht Club. Kern's talent and dedication to his craft quickly caught the attention of others in the industry, and he was soon composing music for silent films, with his first known work for a film called "Gloria's Romance" in 1916.
In 1910, Jerome Kern married Eva Leale, and the couple had one child together. Throughout his life, Kern remained dedicated to his family, finding a balance between his passion for music and his responsibilities at home. His ability to juggle both aspects of his life only added to his reputation as a talented and devoted individual.
Jerome Kern's career took off when he began collaborating with key librettists, such as Oscar Hammerstein II. Together, they created some of the most iconic songs in American musical history, including "Ol' Man River" and "The Way You Look Tonight." Kern's ability to capture the emotions of his time through his music made him a household name and solidified his place as a legendary composer.
Jerome Kern's impact on American music cannot be overstated. His timeless melodies continue to be beloved by audiences around the world, and his influence can be felt in countless musical productions. Kern's dedication to his craft and his ability to evoke emotion through his music have left an indelible mark on the world of music, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.