He was educated at Theodore Roosevelt High School (Chicago) (where in 1931 he wrote the school song "Go Rough Riders Go"), Chicago Musical College, DePaul University studied music theory, composition, conducting and orchestration with Doctor Samuel Lieberson and at New York University with Schillinger method professor Rudolf Schramm.
He played piano at the age of 2 and conducted the New York University orchestra at 14. One of his most famous musical compositions was Five Guys Named Moe. In 1950 he joined American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers and started producing shows for various night club acts like Robert Goulet, Sophie Tucker and Arlene Dahl.
He also collaborated with Larry Wynn writing songs.
