Frances Gershwin: The Life and Legacy of the Longest-Living Gershwin Sibling
While the names George and Ira Gershwin are synonymous with the Golden Age of American music, their sister, Frances Gershwin, lived a rich and multifaceted life that spanned nearly a century. As the last surviving member of the Gershwin siblings, Frances served as a living link to one of the most influential musical dynasties in history, pursuing her own passions in music, painting, and the performing arts.
Artistic Pursuits and Early Career
Frances was deeply immersed in the arts from a young age. She shared a close bond with her brother George, accompanying him on travels to Europe where she performed at various parties. Her talent extended to the professional stage, where she spent a brief period performing on Broadway.
Beyond music, Frances was an accomplished visual artist. Following her marriage, she continued to cultivate her creative skills, eventually earning a prestigious French painting award.
Marriage to Leopold Godowsky Jr.
Frances married Leopold Godowsky Jr., a man of extraordinary versatility in both science and art. Godowsky was a distinguished musician who served as the first violinist for both the San Francisco and Los Angeles Symphony Orchestras, and he frequently performed alongside his father, the renowned pianist Leopold Godowsky.
In addition to his musical achievements, Leopold Godowsky Jr. made a significant contribution to the history of photography as the co-inventor of Kodachrome—the first commercially successful color film process—alongside Leopold Mannes. Through this marriage, Frances also became sister-in-law to the actress Dagmar Godowsky.
Family and Later Years
Frances and Leopold raised four children: Alexis Gershwin, Leopold Godowsky III, and twins Georgia Keidan and Nadia Natali. Continuing the family tradition of creativity, all four children pursued careers in the fine arts and performing arts.
In her later years, Frances returned to her musical roots. In 1973, she recorded the album For George and Ira, a tribute to her brothers' enduring musical legacy.
Frances passed away in 1999 at the age of 92. She is interred in the Gershwin Mausoleum, where she rests alongside her husband, her parents, and her brothers.
Key Facts
- Longest-living sibling: Frances was the last surviving member of the Gershwin siblings.
- Diverse talents: She was a singer, Broadway performer, and an award-winning painter.
- Notable spouse: Married Leopold Godowsky Jr., a symphony violinist and co-inventor of Kodachrome color photography.
- Musical tribute: Recorded the album For George and Ira in 1973.
- Family legacy: Had four children, all of whom were involved in the performing and fine arts.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Leopold Godowsky Jr. |
| Children | Alexis, Leopold III, Georgia, and Nadia |
| Notable Achievement | French painting award; 1973 album recording |
| Lifespan | Died in 1999 at age 92 |
| Final Resting Place | Gershwin Mausoleum, Westchester Hills Cemetery |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Frances Gershwin's husband?
Frances was married to Leopold Godowsky Jr., who was a first violinist for the Los Angeles and San Francisco Symphony Orchestras and the co-inventor of Kodachrome color photography.
Did Frances Gershwin have a career in the arts?
Yes, she performed on Broadway, sang at parties with her brother George in Europe, won a French painting award, and recorded a musical album in 1973.
What was the name of the album Frances recorded in 1973?
The album she recorded in her later years was titled For George and Ira.
How many children did Frances and Leopold have?
They had four children: Alexis Gershwin, Leopold Godowsky III, and twins Georgia Keidan and Nadia Natali.
Where is Frances Gershwin buried?
She is buried in the Gershwin Mausoleum, along with her husband, parents, and brothers.