Legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch dies at 68

Marvin Hamlisch, the composer and arranger of scores for classic works like "A Chorus Line" and "The Way We Were," died Monday (8/6) at the age of 68.

The New York City native collapsed after a brief illness and died in Los Angeles, according to a statement released by his publicist. No further details were given.

One of the most decorated composers of his time, Hamlisch had won nearly every award possible, including four Emmys, four Grammys, three Golden Globes, three Academy Awards and a Tony. He was also awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 1976 for the Broadway hit "A Chorus Line."

Hamlisch, who handled conducting duties for symphonies in six major markets, started his musical career at the age of 7, when he entered the Juilliard School of Music, impressing the admissions committee with his ability to sing "Goodnight Irene" in any key.

His work consists of more than 40 film scores, including "The Way We Were," "The Sting," "Sophie's Choice" and "Ordinary People," as well as Broadway shows such as "The Goodbye Girl," They're Playing Our Song" and "Sweet Smell of Success."

According to his website, Hamlisch was in the midst of working on a new musical entitled "Gotta Dance," as well as writing the score for Steven Soderbergh's "Liberace," starring Michael Douglas and Matt Damon.