Oscar Levant
Oscar Levant (December 27, 1906 – August 14, 1972) was an American concert pianist, composer, actor, author, comedian, and television talk show host. He was known for his mordant wit, his performances of the music of George Gershwin, and his frequent appearances on radio and television.
Early Life[edit | edit source]
Oscar Levant was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to a family of Russian-Jewish immigrants. His father, Max Levant, was a watchmaker who had a keen interest in music, which he passed on to his son. Levant showed early promise as a pianist and moved to New York City in 1922 to study under the renowned teacher Zygmunt Stojowski.
Career[edit | edit source]
Music[edit | edit source]
Levant's career as a concert pianist took off in the 1920s. He became particularly associated with the works of George Gershwin, whom he met in 1928. Levant's interpretations of Gershwin's compositions, especially Rhapsody in Blue and Concerto in F, were highly acclaimed. He also composed music for films and wrote popular songs, including Blame It on My Youth.
Film and Television[edit | edit source]
Levant appeared in several Hollywood films, often playing himself or characters similar to his real-life persona. Notable films include An American in Paris and The Band Wagon. He was also a frequent guest on radio and television shows, known for his sharp wit and self-deprecating humor. Levant hosted his own television talk show, The Oscar Levant Show, in the 1950s.
Writing[edit | edit source]
Levant was a prolific writer, authoring several books that combined autobiography with his unique brand of humor. His most famous work, A Smattering of Ignorance, was published in 1940 and remains a classic of American humor literature.
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
Levant married actress June Gale in 1939, and they had three daughters. He struggled with mental health issues throughout his life, including severe depression and hypochondria. Levant was open about his struggles, often incorporating them into his public persona.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Oscar Levant remains a significant figure in American cultural history, remembered for his contributions to music, film, and literature. His recordings of Gershwin's works are still celebrated, and his books continue to be read for their wit and insight.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.- 1906 births
- 1972 deaths
- American male pianists
- American composers
- American male film actors
- American humorists
- American television talk show hosts
- Jewish American musicians
- Jewish American writers
- Musicians from Pittsburgh
- 20th-century American musicians
- 20th-century American male actors
- 20th-century American writers
- 20th-century American comedians
- Singer stubs
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
