MICHAEL FEINSTEIN: KEEPING THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK ALIVE
An exclusive Family Beautiful interview
Few artists embody the spirit, elegance, and emotional depth of American popular music like Michael Feinstein. A five-time GRAMMY nominee, historian, archivist, and captivating performer, Feinstein has dedicated his life to preserving the Great American Songbook and sharing its timeless beauty with audiences of all ages. His reverence for the past, paired with a fresh and heartfelt approach to performance, has made him one of the world’s most respected interpreters of classic American music. In this special Family Beautiful interview, Michael reflects on his early inspirations, his transformative years with Ira Gershwin, unforgettable moments on legendary stages, and the exciting projects still ahead—including a highly anticipated collaboration with Liza Minnelli.
An Interview with Michael Feinstein
Family Beautiful: You’ve dedicated your career to preserving the Great American Songbook. What first sparked your passion, and how has it evolved over the years?
Michael Feinstein: There was standard music and art education in schools when I was growing up, and it affected me very deeply—and all of that is gone now. The arts are a unifying factor that connect people in their hearts, minds, and souls. They help erase boundaries and reveal our shared humanity. When the country shifted its educational emphasis to computer sciences, the internet, and technology, arts education suffered. I’ve always believed that exposure to art at an early age raises intelligence and opens hearts. That truth has only become more meaningful to me over the years.
Family Beautiful: Your performances bring a timeless elegance to modern audiences. How do you keep classic music feeling fresh and relevant for new generations?
Feinstein: I try not to focus on anything beyond delivering the best performance I can. This beautiful music sells itself.
Family Beautiful: You worked closely with legends like Ira Gershwin. What lesson from those early years continues to guide you today?
Feinstein: There were times I was fired because I refused to play contemporary music. But staying true to my passion changed everything. I stuck to my lane—the music I love—and that was an invaluable lesson.
Family Beautiful: Our readers love stories of inspiration. Was there a defining moment when you knew music would be the center of your life?
Feinstein: My passion was absolutely shaped during my years with Ira Gershwin. I worked with him from 1977 to 1983. Around that time, I also began performing in Los Angeles nightclubs and met Liza Minnelli, Ira’s goddaughter. She hosted a party for me in 1985 that helped put me on the map. After that, the offers poured in.
Family Beautiful: You’ve performed on some of the world’s most iconic stages. Is there a venue that stands out as truly unforgettable?
Feinstein: Every time I step onto the stage at Carnegie Hall, it’s memorable. Such an iconic venue!
Family Beautiful: Many families introduce their children to your music as a gateway to America’s musical heritage. What do you hope young listeners discover?
Feinstein: These songs offer values and inspiration—romance expressed eloquently, along with wit, hope, curiosity, and positivity. It’s thrilling to see young people in the audience and realize they may be hearing this beautiful music for the first time.
Family Beautiful: You’re also a historian, curator, and educator. How do those roles deepen your relationship with the music you champion?
Feinstein: I take that responsibility very seriously. Broadening the audience for this genre is an honor. Sharing how these songs were written—especially with students—is incredibly rewarding. Seeing how the music moves them is pure joy.
Family Beautiful: Your interpretations are celebrated for their nuance and storytelling. How do you connect personally with the lyrics and compositions?
Feinstein: I immerse myself completely—music and lyrics together. A song is made of two elements, and finding the balance is the fun. I usually create a personal story in my mind, which helps me go deeper through my own life experiences.
Family Beautiful: You’ve collaborated with extraordinary artists. Is there a dream collaboration—past or present—that you still wish could happen?
Feinstein: I would have loved to collaborate with Judy Garland. But I consider myself incredibly lucky to have performed with her daughter, the magnificent Liza Minnelli. I’ve been very blessed.
Family Beautiful: What’s next for you? Are there upcoming projects or events you’d love our readers to know about?
Feinstein: I’m thrilled to be collaborating with my dear friend, the incomparable Liza Minnelli, on her upcoming memoir. We are co-writing it alongside Pulitzer Prize winner Heidi Evans and renowned Los Angeles Times alum Josh Getlin. The book will be released by Grand Central Publishing in spring 2026. We can’t wait to share it with the world.
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