Ross Lee Finney was an American composer and music educator who made significant contributions to 20th-century classical music. Born in 1906 in Minnesota, Finney studied with notable composers like Nadia Boulanger and Alban Berg, which helped shape his unique musical style. He's known for blending traditional American folk elements with more modern compositional techniques.

Finney spent a large part of his career teaching composition at the University of Michigan, where he influenced many young composers. His works span various genres, including orchestral pieces, chamber music, and piano compositions. Finney's music often explored themes of American life and landscape, reflecting his Midwestern roots. He continued composing well into his later years, passing away in 1997 at the age of 90.