Frank De Vol American musician, composer, arranger and actor Date of Birth: 20.09.1911 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Musical Roots
2. College and Early Career
3. Arranger and Composer
4. Film and Television
5. Acting and Personal Life
6. Legacy and Passing

Early Life and Musical Roots

Frank De Volwas born on September 20, 1911, in Moundsville, West Virginia. His father, Herman Frank De Vol, was a musician who played in the local orchestra, and his mother, Minnie Emma Humphreys De Vol, was a seamstress. From an early age, Frank demonstrated a passion for music, joining his father's orchestra at the tender age of 14 as a saxophone and violin player. He also became a member of the Musicians' Union.

College and Early Career

After graduating from McKinley High School, Frank enrolled at Miami University. Despite his parents' hopes for him to pursue a legal career, he remained steadfast in his dedication to music. He joined Emerson Gill's orchestra and embarked on extensive tours across the country.

Arranger and Composer

In the 1940s, De Vol began collaborating as an arranger with renowned musical figures such as Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Doris Day. His most notable work during this period was Cole's "Nature Boy," which topped the U.S. charts in 1948.

Film and Television

From the mid-1950s onwards, De Vol's music made its way into the movie industry. His first film composition credit came in the 1954 movie "World for Ransom." In 1959, he received his first Academy Award nomination for his score in "Pillow Talk." Throughout the 1960s, his soundtracks for films such as "Hush...Hush, Sweet Charlotte," "Cat Ballou," and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" earned him further Academy Award nominations. De Vol also composed prolifically for television, providing music for popular shows like "The Brady Bunch" and "McCloud."

Acting and Personal Life

In addition to his musical career, De Vol also appeared in over 30 film and television roles. His acting credits included appearances in the series "Bonanza," "My Three Sons," "I Dream of Jeannie," and "Diff'rent Strokes." He was married twice, first to Grayce Agnes McGinty from 1935 to 1989, and then to actress and singer Helen O'Connell from 1991 until her death in 1993.

Legacy and Passing

Frank De Vol died on October 27, 1999, in Lafayette, California. He was buried at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in the Hollywood Hills. Even in his 80s, he remained active in the music industry, working with the Big Band Academy of America. His legacy as one of the most prolific composers and arrangers of his time continues to be celebrated.