Other ‘Heat’ Composers
After having read the article about Nan Schwartz Mishkin, I feel a responsibility to correct some information (“Tuned In to the Sounds of TV,” Sept. 22). There are two composers who regularly compose the music for “In the Heat of the Night.” One is Mishkin, and the other is David Bell. Bell is an extremely gifted composer who has written music for many productions, including most recently “Ned Blessing.” Bell and Mishkin’s music have been an important part of the success of “In the Heat of the Night.”
The scat singing referred to was created by the original composer on the series pilot, Dick de Benedictis. It was then incorporated into the music heard on the episodes. It is performed by a talented guitar player and singer, Mac Dougherty.
During the run of the show, there have also been other composers who have contributed music for some episodes. They are Larry Blank and Joe Sherman.
RICHARD S. KAUFMAN
Vice President, Music
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.
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