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Maurice FinnellAmerican musician and vocal teacher
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Maurice Finnell: A Musical Legacy
- Early Life and Musical Journey
- World War II and the Birth of a Teacher
- Post-War Career and Teaching Success
- Among Finnell's most notable students are:
Maurice Finnell: A Musical Legacy
Maurice Finnell (February 28, 1916 - February 5, 2010) was an American musician and vocal coach. He devoted over 50 years to teaching music and singing in New York City, specializing in sight-singing and vocal technique.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Born in Trenton, New Jersey, to Eastern European and Russian parents, Finnell's musical talent was evident from a young age. At eight, he began taking music lessons, and by 12, he was performing in local vaudeville theaters. His first professional singing job came at the age of 16, when he recorded a song for Douglas Fairbanks' film "Reaching for the Moon."
To enhance his vocal abilities, Finnell enrolled in opera singing classes. His skills eventually allowed him to perform in local opera productions. For a time, he also worked as a singer on radio stations in New York and Philadelphia.
In 1941, Finnell made his opera debut with the Trenton Opera Company. However, his career was interrupted by the outbreak of World War II, forcing him to enlist in the U.S. Army and serve at Fort Bragg in North Carolina.
World War II and the Birth of a Teacher
During his military service, Finnell became a musical instructor for fellow soldiers. This experience ignited his passion for teaching. After the war ended, he received a G.I. Bill scholarship and enrolled in the American Theatre Wing in New York City.
To support his studies, Finnell began teaching young performers in 1947. He continued to teach until his passing, working in various institutions, including the American Academy of Music and Drama, Turtle Bay Music School, and the Ansonia Hotel.
Post-War Career and Teaching Success
Despite his teaching accomplishments, Finnell never fully abandoned his singing career. He continued to perform while teaching, and his students have gone on to successful careers on Broadway, in film, television, and opera. Several of his former students have become vocal coaches themselves, continuing to pass on Finnell's techniques.
Among Finnell's most notable students are:
Tony BennettBette Midler
Tyne Daly
Warren Beatty
Legacy of a Master Teacher
Maurice Finnell passed away on February 5, 2010, at the age of 93, after a brief illness. He was actively teaching until shortly before his death. Throughout his remarkable career, Finnell touched countless lives through his exceptional teaching ability. His legacy as a master педаго continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and vocalists.
