Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

August 16, 1939 in New York City, NY

Death

:

March 22, 2020 in Michigan

 

Eric Weissberg was an American musician and composer who was born on August 16, 1939, in New York City. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a violinist and his mother a pianist. Weissberg started playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the banjo and guitar. Weissberg attended the Juilliard School of Music in New York City, where he studied classical music. He also played in various folk music groups, including the Greenbriar Boys and the Tarriers. In 1963, he joined the folk group, the New Lost City Ramblers, where he played the banjo and guitar. In 1967, Weissberg gained national recognition for his work on the soundtrack of the movie "Deliverance." The soundtrack featured the song "Dueling Banjos," which Weissberg performed with Steve Mandell. The song became a hit and earned Weissberg a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance. After the success of "Dueling Banjos," Weissberg continued to compose and perform music. He released several albums, including "Rural Free Delivery" and "New Dimensions in Banjo and Bluegrass." He also worked as a session musician, playing on albums for artists such as Bob Dylan, Judy Collins, and John Denver. Weissberg's music was heavily influenced by traditional folk and bluegrass music. He was known for his skill on the banjo and guitar and his ability to blend different musical styles. His compositions often featured intricate melodies and complex rhythms, showcasing his technical proficiency as a musician. One of Weissberg's most notable works is his album "Rural Free Delivery," which was released in 1970. The album features a mix of original compositions and traditional folk songs, showcasing Weissberg's versatility as a composer. The album received critical acclaim and is considered a classic of the folk and bluegrass genres. Weissberg continued to compose and perform music throughout his career, collaborating with a variety of artists and musicians. He remained active in the music industry until his death on March 22, 2017, at the age of 77. In conclusion, Eric Weissberg was a talented musician and composer who made significant contributions to the folk and bluegrass genres. His work on the soundtrack of "Deliverance" and his album "Rural Free Delivery" are considered classics of the genre and showcase his technical proficiency and musical versatility. Weissberg's legacy continues to influence and inspire musicians today, and his contributions to the world of music will not be forgotten.

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