He’s best known for writing the musicals Godspell, Pippin, and of course, Wicked—a name that keeps coming up whenever people talk about modern Broadway legends. Over the years, he also composed memorable music for major films like Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and The Prince of Egypt, showcasing his incredible range. More recently, he teamed up with John Powell to score the highly anticipated 2024 movie Wicked: Part One, bringing his signature style to a new generation. Before all the fame and spotlight, he earned a BFA in drama from Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Mellon University back in 1968. Early in his career, he made waves as the musical director for The Survival of St. Joan, which was actually the first American rock opera—a pretty big deal at the time. In 1969, he married Carole Piasecki, and together they built a life centered around family, raising two children while he continued shaping the world of musical theater. His work on Wicked remains one of his most celebrated achievements, but really, his influence stretches across decades and genres.
He wrote the song Testimony as a heartfelt contribution to Dan Savage’s It Gets Better Project, and it was later beautifully recorded by the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. He really poured his emotions into the piece, making it a powerful anthem of hope and resilience. He wanted to use his talent to inspire others, and through this project, he did exactly that. His involvement brought attention not only to the cause but also highlighted his deep commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community. He believed in the message behind the movement, and he made sure his voice—through music—was heard loud and clear.