Ben Lanzarone, a renowned composer, arranger, musical director, and pianist, has passed away at the age of 85.
Lanzarone’s family announced that he died on Friday at his Los Angeles home after a battle with lung cancer.
The Brooklyn native began his career as a classical pianist after graduating from the High School of Music and Art in New York and earning a double master’s degree from the Manhattan School of Music.
He was well-known for touring with artists such as Frank Sinatra and for his work as a musical director on Broadway.
Lanzarone is celebrated for his work as a composer for several well-known television programs, including Dynasty, The Colbys, The Love Boat, Vega$, Matt Houston, and Hotel. He also composed music for episodes of Happy Days, Laverne & Shirley, and Mork & Mindy.
In addition to his presence in the television industry, Lanzarone earned an ASCAP Most Performed Composer Award in 1986 for his work in composing television scores.
Furthermore, he arranged music for the soundtrack of Grease (1978) and composed jingles for over 1,000 commercials, records, and soundtracks. He attributed much of his classical and jazz talent to his studio album In Classic Form.
Lanzarone’s wife, actress-singer Ilene Graff, and daughter, Broadway veteran Nikka Graff Lanzarone, enjoyed a professional relationship with him. The family also created and performed cabaret shows together in New York and Los Angeles.
A member of the Recording Academy board of governors, Lanzarone was an active philanthropist, often contributing his time to various charities, including The Variety Club, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, and The Entertainment Community Fund. He is survived by his wife, children, and brothers.
A private memorial service is set to take place in Los Angeles, and donations in his memory can be made to the Entertainment Community Fund (formerly The Actors Fund).
