The Left Hand of God

Victor Young, the prolific American composer, arranger, violinist, and conductor, left an indelible mark on the world of music, particularly in Hollywood. Born in Chicago in 1899, Young began his career as a child prodigy violinist, later transitioning to conducting, arranging, and composing. He was a major musical figure from the 1930s until his untimely death in 1956. Young's extensive filmography includes over 300 film scores and themes, showcasing his versatility and genius. Notably, he was posthumously awarded an Academy Award for Best Music Score. Beyond his work in motion pictures, Young also composed 'serious' music, demonstrating his wide-ranging talent. His legacy lives on through collections like the Victor Young Collection at Brandeis, which houses his musical scores, recordings, and awards, including an Oscar and Golden Globe.