John Kander

John Harold Kander is an American composer known for his work in the musical theater. Born on March 18, 1927, in Kansas City, Missouri, Kander is part of the songwriting team Kander and Ebb, along with lyricist Fred Ebb. Together, they have written the scores for 15 musicals, including Cabaret (1966) and Chicago (1975), both of which were later adapted into acclaimed films. Kander and Ebb are also responsible for the popular song 'New York, New York.' Kander grew up in a loving, middle-class Jewish family and developed an early interest in music. His passion for composing began at a young age, with his first composition being a Christmas carol written during second-grade mathematics class.