Although most of his numerous fans probably regard three-time Oscar-winner Marvin Hamlisch as one of America's most-noted composer-pianists, he also sings, conducts and flashes a ready wit. All were in evidence in a 70-minute program of unusual variety with the Utah Symphony.
Prior to his appearance, assistant conductor Kory Katseanes ably directed the orchestra in five dance melodies from various composers, including Grieg's "Norwegian Dance, No. 2" and the great pops composer LeRoy Anderson's "Blue Tango." The orchestra was superb.Then the legendary Hamlisch began with " `A Chorus Line' Overture," conducted by the composer. Afterward, the composer, grayer than his last visit, recalled his start while working as a rehearsal pianist for the Bell Telephone Hour on television. He was invited to play a party for a producer who hired him to compose the theme from the movie "The Swimmer" - "about a man who was desperately trying to get home by going from swimming pool to swimming pool."
Hamlisch then played the movie's theme with deep feeling, but the lights were turned so low that he complained afterward that he could barely see the keyboard. He was being serious, but technicians failed to get the message.
Next was the Theme from "Ice Castles," better known as "Through the Eyes of Love," with Stephen Lehew displaying an impressive tenor voice. Even though Hamlisch downplays his own singing ability, his programs are really better when he sings his own songs.
The highlight of the evening was Hamlisch's vintage "rent a composer" segment, during which members of the audience suggested new titles, and Hamlisch wrote the songs on the spot. "People with titles in their heads are just searching for a middle-age, bespectacled composer to do it for them. You win nothing."
The first shouted title was "Hear The Lion Roar," and the second was "Hope Utah Wins Tomorrow." After engaging in some quick reparatee, he ad libbed hilarious lyrics and appropriate music to the enormous approval of the audience. He worked up to it by "praying for peace on earth," then ending with a flourish, singing, "For God's sake, let Utah win tomorrow. The sun will come up tomorrow. Finally, finally, we'll let the lion roar."
Hamlisch wrapped up an electric evening with three "fast ballads" he wished he had written, his "lucky song" - "The Way We Were," and a show-stopping rendition of his "One Song" anthem promoting the brotherhood of mankind. Hamlisch took the baton while Lehew returned to the vocals.
The performance was over much too soon for a thoroughly satisfied crowd.