Remembering Hal David

In Memory of Hal David (1921-2012)

I consider myself to be a very lucky man to have been able to work with Hal David. I met Hal originally a number of years ago because of a CD he did for our Bruton library. We quickly developed a rapport and we starting meeting periodically to discuss other things we could do together the first of which ended up to be an indie rock CD (Pop, Rock & Alternative) which has now been used in hundreds and hundreds of productions over the last few years. Most recently we recorded a CD together (Stage & Screen: The New Standards) with the great composer, John Cacavas where I had the opportunity to be in the studio in London with Hal and John as they worked with the singers to bring out the finest nuances of Hal’s wonderful lyrics. It was amazing to watch Hal rewrite on the spot, crafting the words to blend seamlessly with the music. It was a very special time and a once in a lifetime opportunity to work with a true American master. It is a memory I will always cherish.

As much as I will remember these creative times together, I will even more deeply remember his kindness, warmth, spirit and friendship. Given his long history in the business, I was what could easily be called a recent friend, yet he was incredibly kind to me, even took the time to come to my son’s bar mitzvah with his lovely wife Eunice, and was always available any time I needed to talk to him. In reading through all of the comments people have posted on the web over the last couple of days, what I learned was that this wasn’t unique to me. Everyone said the same thing, commenting not only, of course, on his talent, but on his kindness, warmth and spirit. This was the true Hal David, and for those of you who did not have the chance to know him personally, all you need to do is listen to his words to understand who he was as a person. He will truly be missed by all.

Adam Taylor
President, APM Music
 

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