Lalo Schifrin

About

Film and TV composer known for his work on the "Mission: Impossible" TV series and the "Dirty Harry" films starring Clint Eastwood. He provided the original score to "The Exorcist" from 1973, but it was deemed to be too scary for audiences.

Before Fame

He started playing the piano at age six, studying with famed pianist and conductor Daniel Barenboim's father Enrique Barenboim.

Trivia

He composed 'Gillespiana' in 1958 after legendary jazz artist Dizzy Gillespie commissioned him to write an extended work for Gillespie's big band.

Family Life

His parents were Jewish. His father, Luis, was the leader of the Teatro Colón's orchestra's second violin section.

Associated With

He worked with Xavier Cugat's Latin dance orchestra as an arranger.