Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

October 13, 1900 in Saginaw, MI

Death

:

January 27, 1997 in New York City, NY

 

Gerald Marks was an American composer and songwriter who was born on October 13, 1900, in Saginaw, Michigan. He was the son of a music teacher and grew up in a musical family. Marks showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. He later studied music at the University of Michigan and the Juilliard School in New York City. Marks began his career as a composer in the 1920s, writing songs for Broadway musicals and popular singers. He collaborated with lyricist Buddy DeSylva on several hit songs, including "Ain't Misbehavin'" and "The Birth of the Blues." Marks also wrote music for films, including the 1933 movie "42nd Street." In the 1940s, Marks turned his attention to classical music and began composing symphonies and other orchestral works. His most famous composition is the "Concerto for Orchestra," which was premiered by the New York Philharmonic in 1947. The concerto is a complex and challenging work that showcases the virtuosity of the orchestra. Marks continued to compose classical music throughout the 1950s and 1960s, but he also remained active in the world of popular music. He wrote songs for Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and other popular singers, and he continued to work on Broadway musicals. One of Marks' most notable works from this period is the musical "Bells Are Ringing," which he wrote with lyricist Betty Comden and Adolph Green. The musical premiered on Broadway in 1956 and was a critical and commercial success. It was later adapted into a film starring Judy Holliday. Marks' later years were marked by health problems, and he died on January 27, 1997, at the age of 96. He left behind a legacy of music that spanned several genres and styles. Throughout his career, Marks was known for his ability to write catchy melodies and his skill at orchestration. His music was often characterized by its lush harmonies and intricate rhythms. He was also known for his ability to write music that was both accessible and sophisticated, appealing to both popular and classical audiences. In addition to his work as a composer, Marks was also a respected music educator. He taught at several universities, including the University of Michigan and the University of Southern California. He was also a frequent guest conductor with orchestras around the world. Marks' music continues to be performed and recorded today, and his legacy as a composer and songwriter remains strong. His ability to bridge the worlds of popular and classical music has made him a unique figure in American music history.

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