We lost two of the world’s greatest film composers within ten days of each other as we were going to press with this issue of Playback. David Raksin died on August 9th. Elmer Bernstein on August 18th. We will suffer more than a moment of silence without these two beloved colleagues and most distinguished composers.

Both David and Elmer served on ASCAP's Board of Directors with distinction. All of ASCAP benefited from their dedication to championing creators’ rights. They took time from their busy and flourishing careers to represent us with the wisdom that comes from experience. We will miss them deeply. An appreciation of their distinguished careers appears in this issue.

As summer comes to an end, our attention turns toward the presidential race this fall. Despite the outcome of this very important election, ASCAP’s agenda remains clear. We will continue to help lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle in Washington understand the hard work of writers and composers and the threats to their livelihood. By focusing on the chairs of committees and other influential leaders, we will continue to be a vital and vocal advocate for the rights of all creators.

With 180,000 members, ASCAP is strengthened by a diversity of voices from across the musical spectrum. A great example of this can be found in this issue’s coverage of our Pop, R&S, Concert and Christian Music Awards. The music created by ASCAP members honored in these various genres contributes to the great mosaic of American culture that is loved by fans around the world.

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners. As member/owners of ASCAP, you make ASCAP what it is today -- the world’s leading performing rights organization.

Marilyn Bergman
President and Chairman of the Board