With a summer that seems to have had an overwhelming number of losses, we regret to report the death of composer Marvin Hamlisch, who was the principal pops conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
This morning the DSO issued the following statement:
“All of us at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra are shocked and saddened by the new this morning of the passing of Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch.
“Marvin was a consummate musician and composer who in many ways revolutionized theater music, film scoring and popular song.
“Marvin brought unrivalled professionalism and skill to his musical leadership with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Pops series. His natural grace at the piano, his humor and his elegant style in many genres of music delighted and charmed audiences, and impressed his fellow musicians the world over.
“Everyone at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra sends our deepest condolences to Marvin’s family, friends and professional colleagues. Marvin Hamlisch was a true American original who will be deeply missed.”
In addition to his many personal and professional accomplishments (Tony, Grammys, Emmys, Oscars and Pulitzer), he had many friends in the Dallas area. While his death is a great loss, his legacy will play on for eternity.
A true legend has passed. Marvin Hamlisch was an American icon. I had the honor and privledge of working with him on the Dallas Symphony Orchestra AT&T Gala a few years ago, and he was the consummate professional. A musical genius, really. The great American songbook would not be complete without him.