Description:

Jerome Kern
n.p., December 1938
Jerome Kern Signed "Ol' Man River" AQS In 11th Anniversary Month of Its Debut!
AMQS

An autograph musical quotation signed and inscribed by American composer Jerome Kern (1885-1945) as: "To Lionel A. Aucoin / from his / Ol MAN RIVER / Sincerely, / Jerome Kern / Dec. 1938." December 1938 marked 11 years since the song "Ol' Man River" had debuted - in both an original stage production and a sound recording - on December 27, 1927. N.p. In addition to his autograph presented to collector Lionel A. Aucoin, Kern has hand-drawn two musical measures at the center of the blank cream-colored calling card. The slightest toning, else near fine. 3.25" x 2.25." Previously offered by Schubertiade Music & Arts.

Jerome Kern was a prolific composer of over 700 songs of popular music featured in Broadway productions and Hollywood movies of the Golden Age. "Ol' Man River" was from the 1927 musical "Show Boat" adapted from a novel by Edna Ferber. The song conveys the melancholy resignation of a Black boatman named Joe who toils along the Mississippi River. One of Kern's greatest hits then, and one of the most enduring of his songbook today, "Ol' Man River" was originally composed for a baritone signer but later immortalized by bass singer Paul Robeson. Kern's frequent collaborator Oscar Hammerstein II wrote the deeply moving lyrics.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 3.25" x 2.25"
  • Medium: AMQS

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October 8, 2025 10:00 AM EDT
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University Archives

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