Harold Arlen composed the music for "Over the Rainbow" in 1938, creating one of the most instantly recognizable melodies in American popular music. Written for the film "The Wizard of Oz," Arlen's gift for memorable, singable lines combined with sophisticated harmonic movement made this song transcend its cinematic origins to become a jazz and pop standard. His career spanned decades of Broadway and film work, but this single composition remains his most enduring legacy in music education.
E.Y. Harburg provided the lyrics that perfectly captured Dorothy's yearning and wonder. The partnership between composer and lyricist produced a song that works equally well as a film moment, a concert piece, and a learning tool for musicians at all levels.
