 Michael Feinstein
was born in Columbus, OH, and developed an interest in the piano and in show
music at an early age. After moving with his family to Los Angeles in 1976, he
met Oscar Levant's widow, who in turn introduced him to Ira Gershwin. Michael
Feinstein was hired by Gershwin in 1977 to help organize The Gershwin archives,
and continued to work with the lyricist until Gershwin's death in 1983.
In 1984, Michael Feinstein launched a career as a pianist and singer devoted to
the music of the '30s and '40s, playing at private parties in the Los Angeles
area. He had a seven-month residence at the Mondrian Hotel, during which Liza
Minnelli threw a party in his honor (February 1985) that got his name around. In
January 1986, Michael Feinstein opened at the Algonquin Hotel in New York, where
a six-week engagement stretched to 16 weeks.
Michael Feinstein's debut album, Live at the Algonquin, mixed the songs of
Irving Berlin and Oscar Levant with more current material by Stephen Sondheim
and Gretchen Cryer. By 1988 Michael Feinstein had been signed to Elektra
Records, for whom he has recorded a series of albums spotlighting the work of
specific composers, among them 1998's Michael George: Feinstein Sings Gershwin,
as well as a children's album. William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide
Contact Grabow for more information or
to book Michael Feinstein for
your next corporate or private event.
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