Greatly Loved Disney Composers

I recently heard about the death of Robert Sherman and wondered who he was. He and his brother, Richard, composed some of the best-loved Disney songs of the day. Robert Bernard Sherman was born December 19, 1925. His brother, Richard Morton Sherman was born June 12, 1928. Their father, Al, was a well known Tin Read More

What is Tin Pan Alley?

Have you heard the term Tin Pan Alley but had no idea what it was? The term Tin Pan Alley refers to the songwriters and publishers of the late 19th and early 20th Century. These men were all based in New York City and were originally located at West 28th Street between Fifth and Sixth Read More

Happy Birthday, Mr. Bach

Today is Johann Sebastian Bach’s birthday. He was born on March 21, 1685 making this the 327th anniversary of his birth. As a trained pianist, Bach was one of the first composers I played and to this day I still love playing some of his Inventions and other works. J. S. Bach was born into Read More

When Irish Eyes Are Smiling: Is It Really An Irish Song?

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! When I go to the nursing homes to do music this time of year the most requested song is When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. I was suprised to learn that it was not a song from the country of Ireland. When Irish Eyes Are Smiling is a tribute to Ireland. The Read More

Danny Boy, A Song With Many Meanings

With St. Patrick’s Day approaching I thought it would be a good idea to take a look at some of our favorite Irish Songs. The ballad, Danny Boy, is one of the first songs that come to mind when speaking of Irish Songs. The words were written by Frederick Weatherly, a lawyer and lyricist. Weatherly Read More

From a Wretch to Best Loved Hymn: the story behind Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace is one of the best known and loved hymns of our day. When it was first written it started off as a poem to illustrate a sermon on New Years Day 1773. The poem was written by John Newton and is considered to be his spiritual autobiography in verse. John Newton was born Read More

A Tribute to Whitney Houston

    The world was saddened by the unexpected passing of Whitney Houston. I remember seeing her in The Bodyguard while still in high school. Enjoy this performance of one of her most popular songs.    

Remembering Davy Jones

  Sad to hear about the passing of Davy Jones, best known as a vocalists and his role on The Monkees. I watched Davy Jones growing up, so hearing of his passing brings a lot of childhood memories back. Below is a clip of his performance on Brady Bunch in his memory.