Glenn Paxton

Glenn Paxton is an American composer, conductor, and music director best known for his work in musical theatre, television, and concert performance. With a career that spans several decades, Paxton has contributed to a wide range of musical projects, known for his versatility, craftsmanship, and sensitivity to dramatic storytelling.

Paxton’s most prominent theatrical credit is as the composer for the 1978 Broadway musical Working, based on the book by Studs Terkel. The show featured a unique structure, composed of vignettes and songs that told the stories of everyday working Americans. While Working included contributions from several composers—such as Stephen Schwartz, James Taylor, and Mary Rodgers—Paxton composed multiple pieces for the show, including the emotionally resonant song “Just a Housewife.” His music in Working helped underscore the dignity and complexity of ordinary people’s lives, earning him recognition as a thoughtful and expressive composer.

In addition to his work in theatre, Glenn Paxton has composed and arranged music for television, symphony orchestras, and other stage productions. He has served as a music director and conductor for numerous concerts and recordings, bringing his musical expertise to a broad array of genres and formats. His arrangements and orchestrations are known for their clarity and sensitivity to both performer and audience.

Though he is not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, Paxton’s contributions to Working have left a lasting impression, especially in regional and educational theatre, where the musical continues to be produced. His work reflects a deep respect for the power of music to illuminate everyday human experiences.

Glenn Paxton remains a respected figure among musical theatre professionals, admired for his collaborative spirit and his ability to bring emotional nuance and authenticity to his compositions. His music continues to resonate with audiences through performances of Working and beyond.