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Stephen Sondheim
Stephen Joshua Sondheim, born on March 22, 1930, in New York, New York, was a renowned composer and lyricist who became a legendary figure in Broadway history. His early passion for music was nurtured by Oscar Hammerstein II, a family friend and part of the famous musical duo Rodgers and Hammerstein. Sondheim honed his skills in music by learning piano and organ, writing school musicals, and studying at Williams College in Massachusetts. After college, he returned to New York to study under composer Milton Babbitt.

Sondheim's Broadway career began when he was hired as the lyricist for Leonard Bernstein's "West Side Story" at the age of 27. This opportunity marked the start of his illustrious career. He later chose to work on projects where he could have complete control over both music and lyrics, leading to the creation of acclaimed productions such as "Company," "Follies," "A Little Night Music," and "Sweeney Todd," all of which won Tony Awards.

In recognition of his significant contributions to theater, Sondheim was awarded a Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre in 2008. Stephen Sondheim passed away on November 26, 2021, at the age of 91. His legacy was celebrated shortly after his death when hundreds of Broadway performers gathered in New York City's Duffy Square to honor him by singing from his catalog.

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