"The Tale End"

My past and recent showbiz experience allowed me the privilege of being close to the great Hines, Hines, & Dad. For those who may not remember, they were a father and two sons: the elder Mr. Hines; Gregory Hines, Jr. and Maurice Hines. The sons were my peers and very close friends. There are many moments to share, of our special friendship.

They brought class and elegance to the stage. It was Gregory who helped bring the excellence of tap dancing back and inspired young men like Savion Glover. We were a part of a special time in the American Theatrical scene.

When I lived in Las Vegas, Mr. Hines and I had studio space at Henry Le Tang Studios; Tap Teacher extraordinaire. They both knew my Dad, and we shared many wonderful stories. Mr. Hines always said that Maurice, Gregory, and I were born at "The Tale End" of great---
--- SHOW BUSINESS---

"Job Well Done"

Today, I recieved one of the nicest phone calls ever.
My student Julia Suriano was voted by all the teachers in the vocal dept.in the extension division
of Mannes College, to be awarded a cash prize given to the voice that showed the most promise this semester.
Bravo Julia!!!!!
This young lady exhibits the best study habits, has a winning personality, and a great voice.
She has one of the most natural gifts for making the music live; as her teacher, I have always felt
she had a great future ahead of her.
Take note, that this young lady is only eighteen years old.

"Job Well Done"- Julia Suriano - Now it begins.

Singing at any age

If you are aware of Kenneth Kamal Scott, by now I'm sure you know I've been out here on the stages of the world for a very long time. It is by no means an accident that my vocal apparatus still functions in a healthy manner,retaining it's youth and flexibility. "The Proof of the pudding is in the eating."

Some years ago I chose to completely reorder the functioning of my gift. I was cautioned by many of my colleagues at the time,but I was sure that, though I was taking the road less traveled, I would ultimately be the victor. To have had a great career singing in chest, a great career singing in falsetto, and arrive in the fall of my years with a Mezza Voce that doesn't Quit! I think, this needs to be addressed.

People who are up in years; There does not have to be an end. Correct knowledge is the answer. There are many roads to Rome, and I know I've found one. Many types of vocal damage can be corrected without surgery and it is possible to sing well at age 60 and beyond.

A Dear Friend & Colleague

Today On facebook I sent a message to one of the most important people in my long dance and theatre career. I taught at his school, danced in his company, and, more importantly, he was the Choreographer/Director of "The Wiz"--George Faison. We have a rich history together. I had not seen until today, that facebook has allowed us to hookup once again!!!!

The original cast of the B'way production was one of those "great moments." We were nominated for seven Tony Awards.

My Students

I am privileged to have students from the universities where I teach, and students who have been with me their entire adult life, some of you for over 20 years.

This journey on which I'm about to embark, would not be complete without bringing to life some of the many moments we've shared. I may have mentioned in an earlier post,at a recent celebration, there were students I hadn't seen since they were college age, and were now themselves parents. Some of you who are presently on B'way, found time to be present after your show!!!

This is the kind of respect that I get from all of you; Thank you really seems inadequate. You help to validate the knowledge I impart, and allow me the gift of continued growth as a Teacher and Artist.

"We never stop being Students"

New Kids on the Block

If you've been watching Britain's Got Talent or the Chinese version of American Idol you will have seen two young men with vocal gifts that make us remember what it means to be really unique. No more "cookie cutter" singers here. If the Asian young man were just another girl giving us another bad version of Whitney Houston, I wouldn't even comment. Bravo! As for Mister British Counter Tenor WOW! There is a place for you. I was very close to this sound in my youth. Alas, the call of The Lyric Tenor. How refreshing!!!!

Gerry Brown

This is Gerald A. Brown, affectionately known as Gerry. Gerry has been my coach and accompanist for almost 30 years. I have learned so much from him during those years that words are hard to find to express how deeply I care for him.

Gerry has mentored and guided me with great skill and sensitivity. His knowledge of having conducted for New York City Opera has been such a tremendous gift when experiencing our moments of Artistic Expression.

"Er ist ein mensch" My Friend.