Irving Berlin Program Notes and Sheet Music

Irving Berlin (1888-1989) was an American composer and lyricist who wrote some of the most popular songs of the 20th century. He was born in Tyumen, Russia, in 1888, and his family immigrated to the United States when he was five years old. Berlin began his career as a song plugger, or a person who would go from theater to theater and try to get performers to sing new songs. He soon began writing his own songs, and his first hit, "Marie from Sunny Italy," was published in 1907.

Berlin went on to write hundreds of songs, including many that have become standards, such as "Alexander's Ragtime Band," "White Christmas," "There's No Business Like Show Business," and "God Bless America." He also wrote the scores for many Broadway musicals, including "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Hello, Dolly!"

Berlin was a master of melody and rhythm, and his songs are instantly recognizable. He was also a gifted lyricist, and his songs often tell stories or capture the emotions of everyday life. Berlin's music has had a profound impact on American culture, and his songs continue to be enjoyed by people all over the world.