Who is Michael Feinstein?
Few artists embody the spirit of timeless music like Michael Feinstein. Often called The Ambassador of the Great American Songbook, Feinstein is a Grammy-nominated singer, pianist, conductor, and music historian who has spent decades preserving America’s most iconic music. At 68 years old (born September 7, 1956), he’s still touring, teaching, and expanding his influence in ways most artists half his age could only dream of.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Michael Feinstein grew up in Columbus, Ohio, where music became a passion at a very young age. Unlike most musicians, Feinstein didn’t rely on sheet music; instead, he learned to play completely by ear, a skill that shaped his unique style.
After playing in local piano bars post‑high school, Feinstein moved to Los Angeles in his early 20s—a move that would change everything. There he met Ira Gershwin, one of America’s most beloved lyricists, and became his personal archivist for six years. Feinstein later described that time as “the moment I stepped into the world I was meant to live in.”
Rise to Stardom
Feinstein transitioned from archivist to artist in the late 1980s, releasing his debut album Pure Gershwin (1987), which earned critical acclaim. His Live at the Algonquin performances quickly made him a darling of New York’s cabaret scene, with critics praising his mix of scholarship and showmanship.
By the early 1990s, Feinstein was performing everywhere—from intimate clubs to Broadway shows like Michael Feinstein in Concert (1988) and Piano and Voice (1990). His composer-centric albums, covering icons like Jule Styne and Jimmy Webb, became signature works, proving that classic songs could still find modern audiences.
Career Highlights
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Grammy Nominations: 5
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Albums: Over 30, including The Sinatra Project (2008)
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Television: PBS hit series Michael Feinstein’s American Songbook
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Radio: NPR show Song Travels with Michael Feinstein
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Authorship: Bestseller The Gershwins and Me (2012)
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Conducting: Principal Pops Conductor, Pasadena Pops Orchestra (since 2012)
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Foundations: Founder, Great American Songbook Foundation (2007)
The Great American Songbook Foundation
Founded in 2007, Feinstein’s Great American Songbook Foundation is dedicated to preserving and promoting classic American music. The foundation maintains archives, hosts educational programs, and runs the Songbook Academy, a prestigious national vocal competition for high school students.
Quote from Feinstein: “This music is America’s history, and we can’t afford to let it fade. It’s our job to keep it alive for future generations.”
Michael Feinstein’s Net Worth
Michael Feinstein’s net worth is estimated at $50–60 million, thanks to decades of recording, live performances, conducting work, royalties, book sales, and ownership of acclaimed music venues like Feinstein’s at Loews Regency in New York and Feinstein’s at the Nikko in San Francisco.
For an artist whose career centers on music written as far back as the 1920s and 30s, his financial success is rare and remarkable.
Television, Film & Authorship
Feinstein isn’t just a performer—he’s a multimedia presence. His PBS series Michael Feinstein’s American Songbook showcased not only his own performances but also rare interviews and archival footage, drawing millions of viewers and introducing younger audiences to classic American music.
His NPR radio program, Song Travels, featured high-profile guests like Liza Minnelli and Bette Midler. Feinstein’s book The Gershwins and Me became a bestseller and cemented his reputation as a music historian.
Influence and Legacy
Michael Feinstein has done more than just keep classic music alive—he’s given it new life.
Liza Minnelli once said: “Michael doesn’t just perform songs, he brings them to life in a way that feels fresh and deeply personal.”
His influence on young musicians, particularly through his foundation, ensures that the Great American Songbook won’t be forgotten. His work as conductor of the Pasadena Pops has also introduced orchestral interpretations of classic American songs to new generations of music lovers.
Personal Life
Michael Feinstein married Terrence Flannery in 2008, in a ceremony officiated by none other than Judge Judy Sheindlin. The couple maintains homes in New York, Los Angeles, and Indiana. Feinstein has always been open about his life, further endearing him to his fans as someone authentic and deeply passionate about his art.
Michael Feinstein at 68: Still a Force
Even at 68, Michael Feinstein shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to perform globally, record albums, conduct orchestras, and mentor young talent. With plans to develop a Great American Songbook Museum and ongoing sold-out performances, Feinstein’s influence only grows.
Quick Facts
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Full Name: Michael Jay Feinstein
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Date of Birth: September 7, 1956
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Age: 68 (as of 2025)
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Profession: Singer, Pianist, Conductor, Archivist, Author
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Net Worth: $50–60 Million
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Key Achievements: 5 Grammy Nominations, Founder of Great American Songbook Foundation, Principal Pops Conductor
Why He Matters
Michael Feinstein isn’t just another entertainer. He’s a bridge between generations, ensuring the music of Gershwin, Porter, and Berlin resonates with audiences born decades after those songs were written.
In an industry obsessed with what’s trending, Feinstein’s career is proof that timeless music never goes out of style.
