Steve Kaplan (b. August 3, 1958 – d. December 14, 2003) was a keyboardist and award-winning television and film composer who served as the musical director for Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.
Early Life[]
Steven Neil Kaplan was born on August 3, 1958, in Claremont, California. He started playing piano at age 5,and attended University High School and Cal State Northridge before beginning his career as a studio pianist. He was trained as a classical musician, but he developed an early interest in jazz music.
Death[]
Steve Kaplan died on December 14, 2003, when his twin-engine Cessna crashed into a Claremont home while he was attempting an emergency landing. He was on his way to Etiwanda High School to rehearse with the advanced jazz ensemble for a winter concert.