Best known as the composer of A Chorus Line and the music for such films as The Way We Were, Hamlisch was 68. He’d just finished adapting the Jerry Lewis film The Nutty Professor with Rupert Hines. Hamlisch is on the very short list of people who have won at least one Oscar (he won three), an Emmy (four), a Grammy (four) and a Tony – plus three Golden Globes. And only he and composer Richard Rodgers have won those four plus the Pulitzer Prize.

A family spokesman told the Associated Press, Hamlisch died after a brief illness but gave no other details. Hamlisch was scheduled to appear three times with the Dallas Symphony this next season as its principal pops conductor. The DSO has announced that the shows will go forward as planned with guest conductors to be announced as they are arranged.

• Marvin Hamlisch’s interview with Stephen Becker of Art&Seek

• Hamlisch’s interview with Krys Boyd of THINK in 2010:

• The Los Angeles Times obituary.

Here’s the DSO full statement and a letter from David Hyslop, the DSO’s interim CEO:

All of us at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra are shocked and saddened by the new this morning of the passing of Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch.

Marvin was a consummate musician and composer who in many ways revolutionized theater music, film scoring and popular song.

Marvin brought unrivalled professionalism and skill to his musical leadership with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Pops series. His natural grace at the piano, his humor and his elegant style in many genres of music delighted and charmed audiences, and impressed his fellow musicians the world over.

Everyone at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra sends our deepest condolences to Marvin’s family, friends and professional colleagues. Marvin Hamlisch was a true American original who will be deeply missed.

MORE INFORMATION:

Marvin Hamlsich was beginning his third season as Principal Pops Conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.

Marvin Hamlisch was a special guest artist as part of the DSO’s grand opening concerts at the opening of the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in September, 1989.

Marvin composed and premiered a work, Anatomy of Peace, for the grand opening of the Meyerson, with the DSO, Dallas Symphony Chorus, and boy soloist.

Marvin Hamlsich has been a frequent guest artist and guest conductor with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra for many years, including several Gala performances and many DSO Pops performances.

Marvin Hamlsich was scheduled to conduct three performances on the DSO Pops Series in the upcoming 2012-2013 season. At this time, these performances will go on as planned, with guest conductors to be announced later:

HAMLISCH CELEBRATES SINATRA

OCTOBER 26-27

Marvin Hamlisch pays tribute to Frank Sinatra with sensational vocalist Steve Lippia and the DSO! Relive the smooth vocals and classic swing that make Sinatra an American icon. Hear the unforgettable hits Strangers in the Night and My Way in performances that add luster to Sinatra’s legendary career!

QUEBE SISTERS BAND WITH MARVIN HAMLISCH

MARCH 29-30

Marvin Hamlisch and the DSO celebrate Texas with the fabulous Quebe Sisters Band, whose refreshing blend of three-part harmony, vintage country and cowboy-style fiddling will have you boot-scootin down the aisles. Western-themed popular classics add American hits that are fun for the entire family!

MARVIN HAMLISCH & WICKED DIVAS

MAY 31-JUNE 2

Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch brings the best of Broadway to the DSO with diva showstoppers highlighted by selections from the Tony Award-winning musical Wicked. Featuring Elphaba and Glinda from the Broadway production, this sensational showcase also includes favorites from Gypsy, Ragtime, Titanic and more.

Letter from David Hyslop, the DSO’s interim CEO:

Dear Friends,

It is with deep regret that I inform you that our Pops Principal Conductor, Marvin Hamlisch passed away last evening.  All of us at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra are shocked and saddened by the news.

Marvin was a consummate musician and composer who in many ways revolutionized theater music, film scoring and popular song.

Marvin brought unrivalled professionalism and skill to his musical leadership with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Pops series. His natural grace at the piano, his humor and his elegant style in many genres of music delighted and charmed audiences, and impressed his fellow musicians the world over.

Everyone at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra sends our deepest condolences to Marvin’s family, friends and professional colleagues in this time of sadness. Marvin Hamlisch was a true American original who will be deeply missed.

On a personal note, I have known and worked with Marvin for over thirty years.  He was a huge talent, great entertainer and a very funny man.

When we receive more details regarding his service, we will pass them on to you.

David