Archive
Billy Goldenberg, 1936-2020
Composer, arranger and musical director Billy Goldenberg died at his home in New York City on August 3, 2020, at the age of 84.
One of the most prolific and versatile composers in American television during the 1970s and 1980s, Goldenberg wrote music for dozens of series and television movies, including Duel, Columbo, Kojak, The Legend of Lizzie Borden and The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case. He was also an acclaimed Broadway musician and served as musical director for Elvis Presley’s legendary 1968 television comeback special.
William Leon Goldenberg was born in Brooklyn, New York, on February 10, 1936. He studied piano from childhood and later attended Columbia College, developing interests in both classical and popular music. After beginning his professional career as a pianist and arranger, he became active in New York theatre and television, eventually working as musical director for several major variety programs.
An important early assignment came when Goldenberg served as musical director and arranger for Singer Presents… Elvis, the 1968 NBC television special that revitalized Elvis Presley’s career. Goldenberg helped shape the musical arrangements accompanying Presley, balancing the show’s large production numbers with the stripped-down performances that reminded audiences of the singer’s original energy. Read more…
Shop at the Movie Music UK Store
Member of the
MOVIE MUSIC UK 