In thinking of what to share with you this week, one thing was in common.\u00a0 Pat, piano, and park all start with the letter \u201cP\u201d.\u00a0 I know it\u2019s a stretch, but hang in there with me.\u00a0 Two upcoming concerts at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center feature Pat Boone and pianist Leon Bates.\u00a0I\u2019ll speak to the third \u201cP\u201d in a moment.<\/p>\n
After taking a week off of Niswonger concerts, where we allow \u201cOhio Has Talent!\u201d to take the stage in an entertaining and very worthwhile cause this Saturday, we return with \u201cThe Music & Memories of Pat Boone\u201d on March 8.\u00a0Boone is a singer, actor, TV man and legendary performer whom we are honored to present on our Central Insurance Stage at the Niswonger.\u00a0 Some may say he is past his prime, but it is his prime that earns him the opportunity to perform for us.\u00a0 Not only that, according to his daughter, Debby, who stole our hearts in concert two years ago, \u201cDad still sounds good and has a very entertaining show you will really enjoy!\u201d<\/p>\n
Pat Boone is still very active and just released a new album entitled Legacy<\/i> with 17 new recordings.\u00a0 He does TV commercials and two radio shows currently. \u00a0Not bad for a man of 81 years!<\/p>\n
I am told he will sing and tell stories like how he once did a concert and had an opening act take the stage before him — a little known male singer by the name of Elvis.\u00a0 Pat says, \u201cThank goodness, I had a couple hit songs at the time because I had to follow Elvis Presley!\u201d\u00a0 Pat\u2019s show will also consist of video of his career and the many performers he has shared the stage with as well as family and film clips.<\/p>\n
\u201cMusic & Memories\u201d — come share them with Pat Boone at the Niswonger on Sunday afternoon, March 8 for a 3 p.m. show.\u00a0 You\u2019ll be glad you did.<\/p>\n
Pianist Leon Bates then comes to town for a weekend of activities, culminating in a piano concert on Sunday, March 22, also at 3 p.m.\u00a0 On Saturday, March 21, Mr. Bates will present a talk on the contributions of African-American composers of music.\u00a0 This will begin at 2 p.m. in the Music Hall and then will be followed by a master class where select piano students from the area and region will perform pieces for Mr. Bates.\u00a0 All are welcome to stay after the talk and see how a master pianist transforms these young budding pianists.\u00a0 Both of these events are free and open to the public as part of our Speaker\/Lecture Series and educational outreach.<\/p>\n