Duchin is the son of the famous bandleader, Eddie Duchin and the socialite Marjorie Oelrichs, who was shunned by her family for marrying beneath her. His mother died only six days after he was born, and his busy father gave him into the custody of her friends, the extremely wealthy and powerful Democratic Party grandees, Averell and Marie Harriman.

In 1947 he went back to live with his remarried father and step-mother, but his father died in 1951. He grew up surrounded by the rich, famous and powerful, and made his own independent career as a bandleader and pianist.

He is active in a number of causes supporting wildlife, air quality and education.

References

Dever, Maria, and Dever, Aileen. Relative Origins: Famous Foster and Adopted People. (Portland: National Book Company, 1992)
Who's Who in America, 1997
Duchin, Peter, and Michener, Charles. Ghost of a Chance: A Memoir. (New York: Random House, 1998)

Indexes

European
USA
20th Century
21st Century
Music and Dance
Birth or Infancy
Unmarried Mother, Single Parent (Mother or Father) Unable to Cope
Family Friends or Acquaintances
Wealthy, Famous, Noble or Divine Adoptive or Foster Families
Temporary Care
Adoptees/Fosterees from Wealthy, Famous, Noble or Divine Birth Families
Parent(s) Died, Disappeared or Became Incapacitated