Frank De Vol: The Life and Achievements of One of Hollywood’s Most Iconic Composers
Frank De Vol was an American composer, arranger, and actor with a career spanning more than five decades. His work includes some of Hollywood’s most iconic film and television scores, including “The Brady Bunch,” “The Odd Couple,” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” In this article, we will take a closer look at De Vol’s life and career, including his personal relationships, top songs, net worth, and more.
Singer’s Bio
Born Frank De Vol Mathias Jr. on September 20, 1911, in Moundsville, West Virginia, De Vol was the son of an orchestra conductor and a pianist. He began playing the piano and violin as a child, and by the age of 12, he was performing in his father’s orchestra.
After a brief stint at Ohio University, De Vol moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He worked as a freelance arranger and composer, and his early credits included arranging for the likes of Glenn Miller and Count Basie.
In 1942, De Vol’s musical talents caught the attention of Bing Crosby, who hired him as his musical director. Over the next several years, De Vol worked with Crosby on numerous recordings and radio broadcasts, cementing his reputation as one of the music industry’s most talented musicians.
Age, Relationships, Children, Height
De Vol was married twice in his lifetime. His first marriage was to actress Helen O’Connell, with whom he had three children. After the couple divorced in 1953, De Vol married Grayson Hall, a soap opera actress who later became a prominent Broadway star. The couple remained married until Hall’s death in 1985.
De Vol was 5’11” tall and lived to be 88 years old, passing away on October 27, 1999.
Career
After leaving Crosby’s employ in 1949, De Vol began focusing on his career as a composer and arranger. His first major success came with his work on the television series “The Adventures of Hiram Holliday” in 1956.
Over the next several years, De Vol’s career continued to soar, and he became one of Hollywood’s most sought-after composers. Some of his most notable works include the score for “The Dirty Dozen,” the theme song for “The Brady Bunch,” and the score for “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.”
In addition to his work in film and television, De Vol also composed music for the theater, including the Broadway musical “Here’s Love” in 1963.
Top Songs
De Vol’s extensive musical career produced a number of notable songs, including:
– “The Brady Bunch” theme song
– “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” score
– “The Dirty Dozen” score
– “The Addams Family” theme song
– “The Natural” score
Net Worth
At the time of his death, De Vol’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million. However, given his prolific career and lasting impact on the music industry, it’s likely that his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
FAQs
What was Frank De Vol’s early career like?
After briefly attending Ohio University, Frank De Vol moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He worked as a freelance arranger and composer, and his early credits included arranging for the likes of Glenn Miller and Count Basie.
When did Frank De Vol begin working with Bing Crosby?
Frank De Vol began working with Bing Crosby in 1942, serving as his musical director for several years. During this time, the two collaborated on numerous recordings and radio broadcasts, cementing De Vol’s reputation as one of the music industry’s most talented musicians.
What notable scores did Frank De Vol compose?
Frank De Vol composed a number of notable scores throughout his career, including those for “The Dirty Dozen,” “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” and “The Natural.” He also wrote the theme songs for television shows like “The Brady Bunch” and “The Addams Family.”
Did Frank De Vol ever win any awards?
Yes, Frank De Vol won a number of awards throughout his career, including four Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award.
Did Frank De Vol have any famous collaborators?
Yes, Frank De Vol worked with a number of famous collaborators throughout his career, including Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, and Nat King Cole.
What was Frank De Vol’s net worth at the time of his death?
At the time of his death, Frank De Vol’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
What was Frank De Vol’s personal life like?
Frank De Vol was married twice in his lifetime. His first marriage was to actress Helen O’Connell, with whom he had three children. After the couple divorced in 1953, De Vol married Grayson Hall, a soap opera actress who later became a prominent Broadway star. The couple remained married until Hall’s death in 1985.
What other types of music did Frank De Vol compose?
In addition to his work in film and television, Frank De Vol also composed music for the theater, including the Broadway musical “Here’s Love” in 1963.
What was Frank De Vol’s most famous work?
Frank De Vol’s most famous work is arguably the theme song for “The Brady Bunch,” which remains an iconic piece of television music to this day.
Did Frank De Vol have any significant achievements?
Frank De Vol achieved a great deal throughout his career, including four Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award. His lasting impact on the music industry is undeniable, and his music continues to be celebrated to this day.
What legacy has Frank De Vol left behind?
Frank De Vol left a lasting legacy in the world of music, contributing some of Hollywood’s most iconic film and television scores. His influence can still be seen and felt in popular culture today, and his music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.
What was Frank De Vol’s cause of death?
Frank De Vol passed away on October 27, 1999, at the age of 88. The cause of his death was heart failure.
What was Frank De Vol’s approach to composing music?
Frank De Vol was known for his meticulous approach to composing music, often spending long hours perfecting every element of his compositions. He believed strongly in the power of music to evoke emotion, and his work is characterized by its depth and complexity.
Did Frank De Vol have any notable collaborations with actors or actresses?
Yes, Frank De Vol worked with a number of famous actors and actresses throughout his career, including Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, and Jack Lemmon.
What instruments did Frank De Vol play?
Frank De Vol was proficient on a number of instruments, including the piano, violin, and accordion.
What was Frank De Vol’s impact on the music industry?
Frank De Vol’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. His compositions are some of Hollywood’s most iconic, and his meticulous approach to music has influenced countless other musicians over the years. His legacy continues to be felt in the world of music today.
What did Frank De Vol enjoy doing in his free time?
In his free time, Frank De Vol enjoyed gardening, traveling, and spending time with his family. He was a lifelong lover of music, and often spent his free time listening to recordings and exploring new musical styles.
