Paul Lamkoff

Paul Lamkoff, (Plonsk, Russian Empire, 14 December 1888 - 11 March 1953) was a Polish-born American cantor and early Hollywood film composer.

Many details about Lamkoff's early life prior to emigrating to the United States are uncorroborated, including his place of birth and his musical training, and professional engagements.

He may have conducted opera throughout eastern Europe, and played violin with the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, and cantored.

His earliest entry to the industry was the 1927 Warner Brothers film The Jazz Singer's Kol Nidre sequence, where he coached Jolson and arranged the choral background.

Along with other talents like Alfred Newman, Johnny Green, and Ray Heindorf, he established the practice of major film studios' music departments being led by professional musicians.