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Dancing Star's Maestro Harold Wheeler Dies at 83
25 Jun
Summary
- Harold Wheeler, musical director for 'Dancing With the Stars,' died at 83.
- He began his Broadway career in 1968, orchestrating 'Promises, Promises.'
- Wheeler received a Special Tony Award for lifetime achievement in 2019.
Veteran orchestrator Harold Wheeler, widely known as the musical director for "Dancing With the Stars," died Wednesday at age 83. His career, spanning half a century, began on Broadway in 1968 with "Promises, Promises." Wheeler also contributed significantly to shows like "Hairspray," "Dreamgirls," and "The Wiz."
Beyond Broadway, Wheeler arranged and produced music for legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and Stevie Wonder. His extensive accolades include a Special Tony Award for lifetime achievement in 2019 and a Drama Desk Award for his work on "Hairspray."
Wheeler's involvement with "Dancing With the Stars" began serendipitously after a Broadway show cancellation in 2005. His 28-member orchestra and singers were a fixture for 17 seasons. He also played piano for Bruce Springsteen on two tracks from his 1973 album.
Born in St. Louis on July 14, 1943, Wheeler earned his master's degree from the Manhattan School of Music. He met his wife, Hattie Winston, while teaching at Howard University. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and grandchildren.
