Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers Film Series: Gene Goodman—The Song Meister

Since 2010, The Jewish Historical Society of SWFL has been collecting and preserving the evidentiary trail of the emerging Jewish community of the region and its pioneering and notable individuals.  Join us for the premiere of the newest film of the Telly Award-winning Jewish Historical Society of SWFL’s original documentary series: Gene Goodman –The Song Meister as part of Florida Jewish History Month Commemoration.

At 104, Gene Goodman is virtually a charter member of a small, elite group of music publishers. Abe Olman Publisher Award recipient, Mr. Goodman was inducted into Songwriters Hall of Fame and is the man who brought you countless classics, like Frank Sinatra’s “That Old Feeling,” the immortal “I’ll Be Around,” recorded by the Mills Brothers, and that favorite Christmas song “I Saw Mummie Kissing Santa Claus.” Although never trained as a musician, like his famous older brother, clarinetist Benny, Gene’s music publishing career spanned seven decades. In this intimate interview captured last summer, he reminisces about his songwriting and much more from his Pelican Bay home. Discussion and Q&A will follow.

Seating is limited at the museum due to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions. Please use the RSVP forms below to reserve your seat at the museum or to attend the event virtually.