Gordon Getty

Gordon Getty is an American composer, philanthropist, and member of the Getty family, known for his richly textured classical works that blend traditional tonality with storytelling flair. Born in 1933, he pursued music passionately despite his family’s legacy in the oil industry, crafting operas, orchestral pieces, and art songs that often draw from literary sources. His catalog includes imaginative adaptations like *The Canterville Ghost* (based on Oscar Wilde) and *Usher House* (inspired by Edgar Allan Poe), alongside lyrical works such as *The White Election*, a song cycle setting Emily Dickinson’s poetry. Getty’s music, including the whimsical *Plump Jack* (centered on Shakespeare’s Falstaff) and the introspective *Piano Pieces*, balances accessibility with emotional depth. Beyond composing, he’s a prominent arts patron, supporting institutions through the Getty Trust. With releases like *Beauty Come Dancing* and *Goodbye, Mr. Chips*, his work continues to charm audiences who appreciate classical music with a narrative heartbeat.

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