Role

:

Composer Conductor  

Birth

:

December 9, 1903 in Newark, NJ

Death

:

February 25, 1981 in Hollywood, CA

 

Matty Malneck was a renowned American composer and violinist who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on December 9, 1903, in Newark, New Jersey, Malneck was the son of a Russian immigrant family. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist, which meant that Malneck was exposed to music from a very young age. Malneck began playing the violin at the age of six and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. He received his formal music education at the New York Institute of Musical Art, where he studied under the renowned violinist and composer, Leopold Auer. Malneck's talent was evident, and he quickly became one of Auer's star pupils. After completing his studies, Malneck began his professional career as a violinist, playing in various orchestras and ensembles. He soon became known for his virtuosity and his ability to play a wide range of musical styles. In addition to his work as a performer, Malneck also began composing music, and it was in this area that he would make his greatest contributions to the world of classical music. Malneck's early compositions were heavily influenced by the jazz music that was popular at the time. He was particularly drawn to the music of Duke Ellington and other jazz greats, and he began incorporating elements of jazz into his own compositions. This fusion of classical and jazz music was groundbreaking at the time and helped to establish Malneck as a unique and innovative composer. One of Malneck's most famous compositions is "I'll Never Smile Again," which he co-wrote with lyricist Ruth Lowe. The song was first recorded by Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra in 1940 and quickly became a hit. It went on to become one of the most popular songs of the era and has since been covered by countless artists. Malneck's other notable compositions include "Goody Goody," "Say It Isn't So," and "The Lamp Is Low." He also wrote music for several films, including "The Big Broadcast of 1937" and "The Big Broadcast of 1938." In addition to his work as a composer, Malneck was also a highly respected arranger. He worked with many of the top orchestras and bands of the era, including the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, Benny Goodman's band, and the Glenn Miller Orchestra. His arrangements were known for their sophistication and elegance, and they helped to elevate the status of popular music in the eyes of the classical music establishment. Malneck continued to work as a composer and arranger throughout his career, and he remained active in the music industry until his death in 1981. His contributions to the world of classical music were significant, and his innovative approach to composition and arranging helped to shape the course of music history. Today, he is remembered as one of the most important figures in the development of American popular music.

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