Burt Bacharach

Burt Freeman Bacharach was born in Kansas City, Mo., on May 12, 1928. The son of nationally syndicated columnist Bert Bacharach, Burt moved with his family in 1932 to Kew Gardens in Queens, New York. At his mother’s insistance, he studied cello, drums and then piano beginning at the age of 12. Bacharach went on to study theory and composition at the Mannes School of Music in New York City; at the Berkshire Music Center; and at the New School for Social Research, where he studied under composers Bohuslav Martinu, Henry Cowell and Darius Milhaud (whose influence on Bacharach’s style is apparent). He was also awarded a scholarship to the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, Calif. From 1950-52 Bacharach served in the Army. While serving as a dance-band arranger with the Army in Germany, Bacharach met vocalist Vic Damone. After their discharge, at the age of 24, Bacharach became Damone’s piano accompanist. In 1957, Bacharach collaborated for the first time with lyricist Hal David (b. May 25, 1921), whom he had met while both worked at the Famous Paramount Music Company in New York’s legendary Brill Building. From 1958-61 Burt toured Europe and America as musical director for Marlene Dietrich. In 1962, Bacharach collaborated with lyricist Bob Hilliard on “Any Day Now.” Through his wife, screen star Angie Dickinson (whom he married in 1966 and divorced in 1980), Bacharach moved into film scores. Bacharach has been involved in thoroughbred racing as an owner and breeder for more than 30 years, and his horses have competed in some of the sport’s most prestigious events.