Bryon Janis’ 70th Birthday Gala

This is another example of being at the right place at the right time. Byron Janis (born 1928)was an  extremely talented and successful pupil of Vladimir Horowitz, the legendary concert pianist. Byron Janis has had an illustrious  career as a concert pianist and composer. He was plagued by severe arthritis at age 45 and, learning how to stay positive, manage his extreme pain, and always remaining productive , he  became Ambassador of the Arthritis Foundation.

The celebration of his 70^th birthday coincided with his writing the musical score for Broadway show Hunchback of Notre Dame. He wanted a pianist to accompany his pair of Broadway stars in the Love Duet. I had the honor of being (briefly) coached by him and playing at this wonderful party in an exclusive French restaurant. Among the attendees were Cy Coleman and Tony Bennett!