Join us as we express our thanks to Alfred and Jane Wolin for their generous gift to the Gershwin Initiative.

The Gershwin Initiative is pleased to announce the “Alfred and Jane Wolin Managing Editorship.” Supported by a three-year gift, the named position assures the continuation of this key leadership position and thus the continuing productivity of the George and Ira Gershwin Critical Edition. “I am so grateful for the Wolin’s generous support,” said professor Mark Clague, director of the U-M Gershwin Initiative. “Their gift recognizes not only the importance of the Gershwin Critical Edition to the brothers’ legacy and American music research generally, but also the incredible work being done by Jessica Getman as Managing Editor. Her technical skills, editorial excellence, and project management acumen keep the edition on track.”

Jessica Getman, Alfred and Jane Wolin Managing Editor, with the Wolins.

The Wolins have been key supporters and donors since the opening of the Gershwin Initiative offices in 2013. Along with being passionate champions of the performing arts and fierce University of Michigan supporters, Al is a former United States District Judge and Jane is an avid swimmer and lover of opera. During their recent campus visit, the Wolins visited the George Gershwin Piano at our School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and learned about the instrument’s restoration from Bob Grijalva, SMTD’s Director of Piano Technology (learn more about the piano’s restoration here). With family and friends, they attended the football game against Notre Dame (which Michigan handily won!). Jane and Al also frequently attend Gershwin-related events, most recently the Metropolitan Opera’s performance of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess in New York City. According to the current “Alfred and Jane Wolin Managing Editor,” Jessica Getman, it is an “enjoyable and fruitful partnership because they love the school, love Gershwin, and love what we’re doing.”

The Gershwin Critical Edition relies on grants and donations. These funds pay for the staff and student research positions that provide for the many hours of engraving, proofreading, and production that make the series’ all-new music editions possible. Gifts such as those by the Wolins are key to our success, providing direct support as well as matching funds for our NEH award.

Thank you Al and Jane!