Arie Levanon

Arie Levanon (1932-2023) was a distinguished Israeli composer, born Leon Weissman in Rumania.

Levanon began his musical journey studying the violin and performing with the symphony orchestra. At the age of 15, he took on the role of conductor for his hometown’s choir, a passion he would carry throughout his life. In 1951, he immigrated to Israel, where he continued his studies at the Tel Aviv Music Academy. During his military service, he served as the Music Director of the Central Command Entertainment Troupe until 1958.

Levanon first garnered attention in 1960 when he won first place in the Israel Song Festival with his composition “Erev Ba.” Over the years, he became a significant figure in Israeli music, composing for various musical performances and contributing to the evolution of Israeli popular culture. He worked as an arranger for the Israel Broadcasting Authority and as the Musical Director for numerous plays and musical ensembles.

For many years, Levanon collaborated closely with the composer Sasha Argov, arranging iconic works such as Der Weise und der Narr: König Salomo. In 1961, he teamed up with Gary Bertini to compose the soundtrack for the film “I Like Mike”. He was the Musical Director for Numerous “Lehakat HaNachal” Performances and for other successful entertainments such as “The devil and the farmer’s wife”. He was an arranger for the Israeli Music Festival for many years. He was the first musical director of the “Hagashash HaHiver” Trio for their first two shows, also composing for said two shows. Levanon Managed and conducted for the children songs Fesival, the Oriental song Festival and more. He participated as an Arranger for many radio and TV shows.

from 1981 until his pasing he was a lecturer in the Levinsky college. in 2014 he was awarded “Freedom of the City”. He was also awarded for his contribution for Israeli arts by ACUM.