Lyle Russell Cedric “Skitch” Henderson 
      
           (January 27, 1918 – November 1, 2005)

Skitch is best known as the conductor and bandleader on
TONIGHT! and later THE TONIGHT SHOW from 1953-1966
on NBC-TV. Prior to this, Skitch Henderson led bands on 
such radio programs as THE PEPSODENT SHOW starring
Bob Hope, THE LUCKY STRIKE SHOW starring Frank
Sinatra and THE PHILCO HOUR starring Bing Crosby.

In 1983, Henderson founded The New York Pops orchestra,
based at Carnegie Hall in New York City. He served as the
music director of the orchestra until his death.
 

From left: Steve Allen and Skitch Henderson

Johnny Carson (left) and Skitch