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Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael will welcome Founder Michael Feinstein for a two-night engagement on Sunday, Sept. 24 and Monday, Sept. 25.
Michael Feinstein, Ambassador of the Great American Songbook, has built a dazzling career over the last three decades bringing the music of the Great American songbook to the world. From recordings that have earned him five Grammy Award nominations to his Emmy nominated PBS-TV specials, his acclaimed NPR series and concerts spanning the globe – in addition to his appearances at iconic venues such as The White House, Buckingham Palace, Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall and Sydney Opera House – his work as an educator and archivist defines him as one of the most important musical forces of modern times.
More than simply a performer, Feinstein has received national recognition for his commitment to celebrating America’s popular songs and preserving their legacy for the next generation. In 2007, he founded the Great American Songbook Foundation, dedicated to celebrating the art form and preserving it through educational programs, Master Classes, and the annual Songbook Academy, a premiere summer music intensive for high school singers.
Feinstein also serves on the Library of Congress’ National Recording Preservation Board, an organization dedicated to ensuring the survival, conservation and increased public availability of America’s sound recording heritage.
The roots of all this work began in Columbus, Ohio, where Feinstein started playing piano by ear as a 5-year-old. After graduating from high school, he worked in local piano bars for two years, moving to L.A. when he was 20. The widow of legendary concert pianist-actor Oscar Levant introduced him to Ira Gershwin in July 1977. Feinstein became Gershwin’s assistant for six years, which earned him access to many unpublished Gershwin songs, many of which he has since performed and recorded.
Gershwin’s influence provided a solid base upon which Feinstein evolved into a captivating performer, composer, and arranger of his own original music. He also has become an unparalleled interpreter of music legends such as Irving Berlin, Johnny Mercer, Duke Ellington, and Harry Warren. Feinstein has received three honorary doctorates and is a published author of The Gershwins & Me.
Michael Feinstein serves as Artistic Director of The Center for the Performing Arts, a $170 million, three theater venue in Carmel, which is also home to the Great American Songbook Foundation. As Principal Pops Conductor for Pasadena Pops, Artistic Director in collaboration with ASCAP for Carnegie Hall’s “Standard Time with Michael Feinstein,” and Director of the Jazz & Popular Series at New York’s Jazz at Lincoln Center, Feinstein’s influence is far-reaching as it is focused.
Feinstein’s newest album, Gershwin Country, reimagines the classic songs of George and Ira Gershwin through the contemporary lens of country music. Executive produced by his longtime friend and collaborator Liza Minnelli, the album pairs Feinstein with some of the biggest names in country music, including Dolly Parton, Alison Krauss, Brad Paisley, and Rosanne Cash.
Get your tickets and more information at this link.