Peter Duchin stands as a luminary in the world of music and sophisticated entertainment, extending a legacy that began with his father, the legendary society bandleader Eddy Duchin, in the 1930s. For over three decades, Peter Duchin and Duchin Entertainment have become synonymous with premier musical artistry, style, and personalized service, captivating clients across the globe.
From the grand ballrooms of London and Paris to the scenic landscapes of Venice and Vancouver, and as far afield as South Africa and Hong Kong, Peter Duchin’s orchestra has graced the most prestigious celebrations imaginable. His performances have become a hallmark of presidential inaugural balls, elegant weddings, exclusive private parties, impactful charity benefits, significant political conventions, and diverse corporate functions, even extending to vibrant college concerts and proms. Peter Duchin is not just a band leader; he is an architect of unforgettable experiences.
Duchin Entertainment orchestrates over 400 engagements annually, a testament to their unwavering commitment to professionalism, expertise, and the distinctive style that the “Duchin” name embodies. Engaging Peter Duchin Entertainment ensures an event imbued with a unique blend of show-business flair and high society elegance.
Peter Duchin’s background is as captivating as his music. Born into a world of prominence, his mother, Marjorie Oelrichs, a celebrated style icon of the 1920s and 30s from a distinguished Newport and New York family, tragically passed away shortly after his birth in 1937. His father, Eddy Duchin, entrusted Peter’s upbringing to close friends Averell and Marie Harriman, the esteemed statesman and his wife. Raised in their care while Eddy toured, Peter’s early life was uniquely shaped by both personal loss and privileged upbringing. He later served with distinction as a Naval combat officer in World War II, showcasing a commitment to service beyond the arts. The poignant story of Peter’s parents is immortalized in the 1956 film, “The Eddy Duchin Story,” featuring Tyrone Power and Kim Novak.
Music was an early and enduring passion for Peter. He began performing with his father as a young boy and continued to hone his skills at Eaglebrook and Hotchkiss schools. His formal music education culminated in a BA in music and French Literature from Yale University. Furthering his musical horizons, he studied composition at the Sorbonne in Paris with the widow of renowned French composer Arthur Honegger, broadening his musical palette and deepening his artistic foundation.
During his two-year service with the US Army in Panama, Duchin’s musical talents shone brightly. He played in the US Army Band and was instrumental in forming a celebrated jazz orchestra. This ensemble garnered acclaim throughout Latin America and even made a memorable appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, marking an early milestone in his burgeoning career.
Upon his return to New York, Peter Duchin embarked on a successful studio recording career, producing over 26 albums. In 1962, he launched his band at The Maisonette in the St. Regis Hotel, quickly establishing it as the city’s premier supper club. His reputation for excellence led to his appointment as musical coordinator for President Lyndon Johnson’s inauguration in 1964, a prestigious event that propelled him and his band onto their first national tour. This success paved the way for the establishment of Peter Duchin Orchestras and Duchin Entertainment, which has consistently delivered top-tier music and entertainment ever since.
In a further demonstration of his multifaceted talents, Peter Duchin authored his memoir, “Ghost Of A Chance: A Memoir”, published by Random House. This critically acclaimed book, now available in paperback, offers intimate reflections on his life and experiences, revealing the depth and breadth of his personal journey beyond the bandstand.
Acclaim for “Ghost Of A Chance”:
The memoir received high praise from literary figures and entertainment icons alike:
Frank Sinatra lauded it as “a great read,” emphasizing Duchin’s storytelling prowess matching his musical talent and reminiscing about shared memories with Eddy Duchin and Jackie Gleason. Lauren Bacall deemed it “a must-read,” hinting at surprising revelations within its pages. Gay Talese described Duchin’s narrative as a “glamorous story” set within a world of privilege and complex family dynamics. George Plimpton celebrated it as “a lively memoir that amuses and instructs about a society of privilege.” John Gregory Dunne hailed it as “engaging and entertaining,” comparing it to “vintage champagne that never loses its fizz.”
Duchin Entertainment prides itself on providing bespoke, personalized service to each client. Recognizing the uniqueness of every event, they offer comprehensive entertainment solutions tailored to clubs, restaurants, hotels, and various venues seeking regular musical performances. Duchin Entertainment manages all aspects, from talent and music selection to service execution and meticulous follow-up, ensuring clients can relax and fully enjoy their events.
Moreover, Duchin Entertainment’s orchestras have been instrumental in raising substantial funds – hundreds of millions of dollars – for diverse charitable and non-profit organizations, supporting causes ranging from medical research and hospitals to universities, arts institutions, and civic initiatives. This philanthropic commitment underscores their dedication to making a positive impact beyond the realm of entertainment.
Peter Duchin’s influence extends into film, with credits in “The World of Henry Orient” (1964), “Working Girl” (1988), and “Jade” (1995). His life story, intertwined with his father’s legacy, continues to resonate, solidifying Peter Duchin’s place as not just a bandleader, but a cultural figure.
Peter Duchin’s discography is extensive, featuring numerous recordings across decades. Some notable albums include “Presenting Peter Duchin,” “In The Duchin Manner,” “Peter Duchin At The St. Regis,” and “The Peter Duchin Discotheque Dance Party,” among many others, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal across various musical styles.
Duchin Entertainment’s client roster is a testament to their prestige and wide-reaching appeal, encompassing renowned names such as the Carlyle Hotel, American Express, The Oppenheimer Family, Paramount Pictures, The Breaker’s Hotel, every Presidential Inaugural Ball since 1961, Carnegie Hall, QE II, Disney, Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Giorgio Armani, and countless others. Their extensive experience includes providing music for numerous Kennedy family weddings and the wedding of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver, highlighting their trusted reputation in orchestrating music for life’s most significant moments.
Peter Duchin’s career and Duchin Entertainment’s ongoing success are built on a foundation of musical excellence, sophisticated style, and a deep commitment to personalized service, ensuring that the Duchin legacy continues to enchant and elevate events worldwide.
