Robert Russell Bennett was a prominent American composer and orchestrator born in Kansas City. Despite his significant contributions to the world of music, his name is often overshadowed by the iconic Broadway productions he helped shape. Bennett orchestrated many of the most well-known musicals of the 20th century, including "Show Boat," "My Fair Lady," and "The Sound of Music." His remarkable ability to transpose and arrange music quickly made him a sought-after figure in the musical theater world, working with legendary composers such as Jerome Kern, George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, and Frederick Loewe.

Bennett's musical journey began at an early age, nurtured by his mother, who taught him piano, and his father, who instructed him in trumpet and violin. Despite his success in Broadway, Bennett aspired to compose classical music and even moved to Paris to study under the esteemed pedagogue Nadia Boulanger. His dream was to conduct in renowned opera houses and create great works of music.

Throughout his career, Bennett composed significant concert works, including symphonic pieces, concerti, solo organ music, chamber music, and music for wind bands. Some of his notable compositions include "Abraham Lincoln: A Likeness in Symphony Form," "Four Freedoms Symphony," and "Hexapoda." Despite his extensive work in commercial music, Bennett's original compositions were performed in concert halls and on the radio, showcasing his versatility and depth as a composer.

Although Bennett never considered his orchestrations to be true classical music, he eventually recognized the artistic merit of Broadway music, acknowledging the talents of American songwriters. His autobiography, "The Broadway Sound," reflects on his career and contributions to both Broadway and classical music.