"I Like New York In June…

…How About You?" A unanimous "YES" would certainly be the response of the 60 or so devotees gathered at the Michael Feinstein Fan Club reception at Manhattan’s Park Central Hotel on June 19th. Thanks to the planning and organization that began several months prior to this happy occasion, there were many smiling faces as Michael posed for pictures, signed memorabilia and engaged in conversation with everyone. Thanks are also in order for those who brought luscious desserts and gift bags filled with Michael Feinstein signature hats, tee shirts, cassettes, autographed pictures and chocolates. Mazie and Ed Feinstein, Michael’s parents, were also present, and what a wonderful opportunity it was to share their anticipation for the Carnegie Hall concert the following evening. Michael donated a pair of signed dress shoes, bow tie, cummerbund and cuff links/shirt studs from his Isn’t It Romantic tour for a silent auction. There were many give-aways to offer that added to the fun. Plans are already in the works for future events that will bring opportunities to mingle with each other and with Michael. Many thanks to Michael for his generosity of time and for his ever-present graciousness during the midst of preparations for his concert.

‘Swonderful….

…As the June 20th, 8:00 p.m. curtain rose at Carnegie Hall the stage was filled with a 70-piece symphony orchestra conducted by Alan Broadbent and John Oddo. The air was soon filled with Gershwin standards and selections from Michael’s new release recorded in Israel with the Israel Philharmonic. Michael sang an audience favorite, "I Love a Piano," that we haven’t heard from the stage in a while, and, judging from the enthusiastic reaction it received, would be welcome in every concert. Composers present in the audience included Jerry Herman, Betty Comden, Adolph Green and David Raksin, and Michael was sure to include favorites that they had written.

Michael spoke of his trip to Israel and the personal impact it had upon him. He presented the Arab-Israeli Ensemble, a group of musicians and a soprano who perform together in an effort to foster peace in the Middle East. He is planning a tour that includes this ensemble. Michael also mentioned his involvement with Seeds of Peace, a group designed to bring Arab and Israeli children together for friendship and understanding.

The intermission conversation was electric; Michael’s voice was never stronger. The selections for the evening were perfect and being in one of the world’s most beautiful concert halls added to the total experience. During the second part of the evening Michael was joined by Elaine Stritch, who performed two numbers, the second being a duet with Michael. Michael recounted his initial meeting with Frank Sinatra, his continuing friendship with Barbara Sinatra, and completed the program with the song introduced by Sinatra so many years ago but with relevance for today, "The House I Live In."

On a personal note, we had two unforgettable evenings in New York. Michael Feinstein remains in a class by himself in the way in which he sincerely values his fans and in the time he gives to all of us who have followed his career. We are fortunate to have been a part of many Feinstein audiences, starting with the Algonquin Hotel in 1986. Each one is unique, with Michael constantly expanding his repertoire and introducing new musicians and arrangements.

Thanks for the memory.
Rita and Roger Zeeman

As I am writing this, I am listening to Michael sing "Someone To Watch Over Me." My spirit is still soaring after a wonderful 2 days in New York-my home town!

Those who know me well know about my list. It contains things that I want to see, do or accomplish during my life. I have accomplished many of the items on my list such as painting a picture, sailing on a clipper ship and traveling to several countries in Europe. My next goal is to complete a half-marathon. I am currently in the process of training for a Walking Marathon in November and am trying to raise $3600 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. (Those who have read Michael's book know that this is the same disease that claimed George and Ira's father).

At the reception I had the opportunity to talk to Michael about what I was now able to cross off my list – meeting him and going to Carnegie Hall. (I believe that a third item I shared with him will also someday come true!) It was wonderful to have the opportunity to express to Michael what his music meant to me. Even as a little girl I felt as if I was born at the wrong time because I loved the "old" songs better than the new. Michael's love for this music is so apparent. Besides his voice, it is this love for what he does that brings me back time and again to see him perform.

Sitting in the fourth row at Carnegie Hall (right next to Barbara Walters by the way) and seeing Michael perform with a 70 piece orchestra was the perfect ending to my New York adventure. As an added bonus, I met some wonderful people on this trip. One of the couples who traveled from England to see Michael sat at my table at the reception. I invited them to join us for dinner at the Russian Tea Room and we had a great time. They were such warm, thoughtful people. Hopefully we will get together the next time they come to the United States.

As we all learned this past year, life is very fragile. I try to make the most of each day. I will continue to expand my list until the music stops for me. But thanks to Michael, the music will live forever!!

Pat O'Sullivan Wilcox