Morton Gould
Actor
About Morton Gould
Morton Gould was primarily renowned as a distinguished American composer and conductor, though he made a brief foray into acting with his appearance in 'Delightfully Dangerous' (1945). Born in Richmond Hill, New York, Gould demonstrated extraordinary musical talent from an early age, publishing his first composition at just six years old. He established himself as a prominent figure in American classical and popular music, composing numerous orchestral works, ballets, film scores, and television themes throughout his prolific career. His musical style was characterized by its incorporation of American folk and jazz elements into classical forms, creating a distinctly American sound. While his appearance in 'Delightfully Dangerous' represents his only known acting credit, it likely showcased his musical talents in a film context rather than representing a serious acting career. Gould served as president of ASCAP from 1986 to 1994 and continued composing and conducting until his death in 1996, leaving behind an extensive legacy of American musical compositions that bridged popular and classical traditions.
The Craft
On Screen
Limited to one appearance, likely showcasing musical talents rather than dramatic acting
Milestones
- Published first composition at age 6
- Appeared in 'Delightfully Dangerous' (1945)
- Won Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1995
- Served as President of ASCAP (1986-1994)
- Composed numerous orchestral works and film scores
- Conducted major orchestras worldwide
- Created music for television and radio
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Pulitzer Prize for Music (1995)
- Kennedy Center Honors (1994)
- Grammy Award for Best Classical Album (1966)
Nominated
- Multiple Grammy nominations throughout career
Special Recognition
- Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Inducted into American Classical Music Hall of Fame
- National Medal of Arts (1992)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Morton Gould significantly impacted American music by successfully bridging the gap between classical and popular music traditions. His compositions incorporated American folk songs, jazz rhythms, and popular melodies into classical frameworks, helping to define a uniquely American musical voice. As president of ASCAP, he advocated for composers' rights and helped modernize the organization's approach to music licensing in the digital age. His film work, though limited, demonstrated his versatility and willingness to explore different musical mediums.
Lasting Legacy
Gould's legacy endures through his extensive catalog of compositions that continue to be performed by orchestras worldwide. His Pulitzer Prize-winning work 'Stringmusic' stands as a testament to his mastery of orchestral writing. His advocacy for composers' rights and his leadership at ASCAP helped shape modern music publishing and licensing practices. The blending of popular and classical elements in his work paved the way for future generations of American composers seeking to create a distinctive national musical identity.
Who They Inspired
Gould influenced countless composers through his example of successfully incorporating American popular music elements into classical compositions. His work at ASCAP helped establish better protections and compensation for composers in the rapidly changing music industry. His approachable style of composition and conducting helped make classical music more accessible to broader audiences, influencing how orchestras program and present music to the public.
Off Screen
Morton Gould was married three times throughout his life. He married his first wife, Barbara Hirsch, in 1943, and they had two children together. The marriage ended in divorce. He later married Margaret Ritchie in 1950, which also ended in divorce. His third marriage was to Janis Roswick in 1966, with whom he remained until his death. Gould was known for his tireless work ethic and continued composing and conducting well into his later years, maintaining an active performance schedule even in his 80s.
Education
Studied at the Institute of Musical Art (now Juilliard School) in New York
Family
- Barbara Hirsch (1943-1949)
- Margaret Ritchie (1950-1965)
- Janis Roswick (1966-1996)
Did You Know?
- Published his first composition at age 6
- Was a child prodigy who could play piano by ear at age 4
- Composed music for over 30 television shows
- His piece 'American Salute' is one of the most performed orchestral works in America
- Served as a music director for several radio programs in the 1930s and 1940s
- Was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score for 'Gigantic' (1974)
- Conducted the premiere of his own 'Symphony of Spirituals' in 1941
- His music was used in the 1996 Summer Olympics opening ceremony
- Received the National Medal of Arts from President Bill Clinton
- His archives are housed at the Library of Congress
In Their Own Words
I've always tried to write music that speaks to people, that they can understand and feel immediately.
The American composer has a responsibility to create music that reflects our time and our place.
Music should be a living, breathing thing, not a museum piece locked away in a glass case.
I've never believed in the artificial separation between 'serious' and 'popular' music.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Morton Gould?
Morton Gould was primarily a renowned American composer and conductor, though he made one appearance as an actor in 'Delightfully Dangerous' (1945). He was known for blending American folk and jazz elements into classical compositions, creating a distinctly American musical voice that earned him a Pulitzer Prize in 1995.
What films is Morton Gould best known for?
Morton Gould's only known acting credit was in 'Delightfully Dangerous' (1945), a musical comedy starring Jane Powell. However, he composed music for numerous films and television shows throughout his career, though his primary fame came from his orchestral compositions and conducting work.
When was Morton Gould born and when did he die?
Morton Gould was born on December 10, 1913, in Richmond Hill, New York, and died on February 21, 1996, in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 82, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of American musical compositions.
What awards did Morton Gould win?
Morton Gould received numerous prestigious awards including the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1995, the Kennedy Center Honors in 1994, the National Medal of Arts in 1992, and a Grammy Award for Best Classical Album in 1966, among many other honors recognizing his contributions to American music.
What was Morton Gould's musical style?
Gould's musical style was characterized by its successful integration of American folk songs, jazz rhythms, and popular melodies into classical frameworks. He rejected the artificial separation between 'serious' and 'popular' music, creating accessible compositions that spoke directly to audiences while maintaining artistic integrity and sophistication.
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Films
1 film
