Harold Arlen (1905-1986) composed some of the most enduring melodies in American musical theater and film. His gift for writing instantly singable, rhythmically inventive tunes made him a natural fit for Hollywood, where he created the score for The Wizard of Oz alongside lyricist E.Y. Harburg. Arlen's harmonies are sophisticated yet accessible, a balance that has kept his songs alive in countless arrangements across nearly a century.
Beyond Oz, Arlen wrote for Broadway and countless films, often collaborating with lyricists who shared his theatrical sensibility. His influence on American song is foundational: directors and arrangers continue to find fresh angles on his catalog because the melodies and harmonic structures are simply that strong. For music educators, Arlen's work offers a masterclass in how to write music that appeals to both casual listeners and musicians who dig deeper.
