Michael Feinstein
Born: September 7, 1956
Fun Fact: Michael performed the music for joke writer Bruce Vilanch's film Get Bruce!
Quote: "I'm still not crazy about the word gay, because I think it conjures up a certain stereotypical image. I like the idea that so
many younger people today are using other terms, like queer."
Those with a taste for the classy flair of Cole Porter and George Gershwin can find it in the ivory-tickling music of gay
pianist-singer Michael Feinstein, known for his re-energizing of standard hits from the '30s and '40s. In April Feinstein
paid tribute to Academy Award-winning composer Sammy Cahn at a sold-out Carnegie Hall concert in New York City.
Born in in Columbus, Ohio, Feinstein was a child prodigy, taking to the piano -- and show music -- right away. After
moving with his family to Los Angeles in 1976, he met Oscar Levant's widow, who introduced him to Ira Gershwin. Hired
by the famed lyricist to help organize the Gershwin archives, he continued work on the project until the composer's death.
Feinstein then launched a career as a pianist and singer of standards, playing at private parties in Los Angeles. After a
seven-month gig at the Mondrian Hotel, Liza Minnelli threw a party in his honor, which led to more renown.
In January 1986 Feinstein opened at the famed Algonquin Hotel in New York, where a six-week engagement stretched to
four months. His debut album, Live at the Algonquin,
mixed songs by Irving Berlin and Oscar Levant with more current material by Stephen Sondheim.
Since then he's recorded a series of albums spotlighting the work of specific composers, including 1998's
Michael & George: Feinstein Sings Gershwin,
a children's album, and another live album of classic romance songs at the Regency nightclub.
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Big City Rhythms
Forever
Isn't It Romantic
Live At The Algonquin
M.G.M. Album
Nice Work If You Can Get It
Pure Gershwin
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