February 28th: Murray Gold

Thomas Pitts Composer Of The Day, England, Europe 20th Century, 21st Century, Doomsday, February, Murray Gold, TV Music

Murray Gold 28 February 1969

Doomsday

Murray Gold
By Richard Ecclestone (Navymaroon) – https://www.flickr.com/photos/63063159@N06/5733718740/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15237999

Murray Jonathan Gold is an English composer known for his work in stage, film, and television. He was born in Portsmouth, Hampshire. Gold is best known for composing the music for Doctor Who from 2005 to 2017 and again from 2023. He has also worked on popular shows like Queer as Folk and Last Tango in Halifax. Gold has received five BAFTA nominations for his original television music, showcasing his talent and impact in the industry. He studied history at Corpus Christi College and began his career in drama before focusing on music.

His compositions enhance storytelling, making scenes more engaging. Gold’s music often features orchestral arrangements, which have evolved over time. He has created memorable themes for various characters in Doctor Who, including the Doctor and the Daleks. In addition to television, Gold has scored films and written radio plays, highlighting his versatility as a composer. His contributions to music in media have made him a significant figure in contemporary British culture.

9 January

January 9th: Vic Mizzy

Thomas Pitts Composer Of The Day, North America, United States of America 20th Century, January, Morticia's Theme, TV Music, Vic Mizzy

Vic Mizzy 9 January 1916 – 17 October 2009

Morticia's Theme From the Television Series "The Addams Family"

Vic Mizzy
By Unknown – Original publication: 2004Immediate source: https://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/21/arts/television/21mizzy.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74677542

Victor Mizzy was an American composer born on January 9, 1916, in Brooklyn, New York, to Jewish immigrants. He became famous for creating memorable themes for television shows like Green Acres and The Addams Family. Mizzy was largely self-taught and played the accordion and piano as a child.

During World War II, he served in the United States Navy, where he wrote many hit songs. In the late 1930s, he began composing popular songs, including Doris Day’s hit “My Dreams Are Getting Better All the Time.” His work extended to television in the late 1950s, where he composed for shows such as Shirley Temple’s Storybook. Mizzy’s music significantly influenced popular culture, especially in the 1960s, when he wrote themes for various sitcoms. He also scored several films, including those starring Don Knotts. Mizzy passed away on October 17, 2009, at the age of 93. His legacy lives on through his contributions to music and television, showcasing the importance of creativity in entertainment.