Pianist, Composer & Conductor André Previn Was Born On This Day in 1929

He served as Music Director of the LA Philharmonic, London Symphony, Houston Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Celebrated German-American pianist, composer, arranger and conductor Sir André Previn was born on this day in 1929.

Throughout his eclectic seven decade career, Previn explored three distinct genres: Hollywood films, jazz, and classical music, achieving success in each realm. His involvement in jazz and classical music persisted until his final days.

Within the realm of cinema, he orchestrated and composed music. In jazz, he earned acclaim as a renowned trio pianist, serving as a piano accompanist to singers of standards, and interpreting songs from the "Great American Songbook."

In classical music, he showcased his talents as both a pianist and gained television recognition as a conductor. Over his last three decades, he cemented his legacy as a composer of art music.

He served as Music Director of the LA Philharmonic, London Symphony, Houston Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. He also enjoyed an affectionate relationship with the Vienna Philharmonic.

A recipient of a Pulitzer Prize, he was also awarded four Academy Awards and ten Grammy Awards.

Sir André married five times - including high profile relationships with actress Mia Farrow and violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter. Sir André and Ms Mutter were married from 2002 to 2006 – but continued to collaborate musically and maintained a close friendship.

He died on February 28, 2019, following a short illness - aged 89.

GERSHWIN | "RHAPSODY IN BLUE" | THE BELL TELEPHONE HOUR EPISODE | 1966