2012 was a huge turning point in my life. The year began with my family almost losing my dad to a rare heart condition. Music was just about the only thing that was keeping my head on straight. My piano teacher, Tom Reitano, had introduced me to the music of Michael Feinstein. I was instantly a fan and would have done just about anything for the chance to meet him.
I found out that Michael was the founder of the Great American Songbook Foundation, which focused on preserving the music of the Great American Songbook in every way imaginable. They kept archives of original sheet music, recordings, and musical artifacts, with the goal of opening a huge museum so the public can continue to love and appreciate this music for years to come. I also learned that every year they host a High School Vocal Competition, all focused on the music of the Great American Songbook. I entered on a whim, simply because of the chance that I might get to meet my idol.
I got way more than that. Here are a few highlights from the year that started it all!
I found out that Michael was the founder of the Great American Songbook Foundation, which focused on preserving the music of the Great American Songbook in every way imaginable. They kept archives of original sheet music, recordings, and musical artifacts, with the goal of opening a huge museum so the public can continue to love and appreciate this music for years to come. I also learned that every year they host a High School Vocal Competition, all focused on the music of the Great American Songbook. I entered on a whim, simply because of the chance that I might get to meet my idol.
I got way more than that. Here are a few highlights from the year that started it all!
New York City Debut
September 2012
Summer 2012
2012 Michael Feinstein Great American Songbook High School Vocal Competition National Finals
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