The three ‘Ps’ of Van Wert music!

In thinking of what to share with you this week, one thing was in common.  Pat, piano, and park all start with the letter “P”.  I know it’s a stretch, but hang in there with me.  Two upcoming concerts at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center feature Pat Boone and pianist Leon Bates. I’ll speak to the third “P” in a moment.

After taking a week off of Niswonger concerts, where we allow “Ohio Has Talent!” to take the stage in an entertaining and very worthwhile cause this Saturday, we return with “The Music & Memories of Pat Boone” on March 8. Boone is a singer, actor, TV man and legendary performer whom we are honored to present on our Central Insurance Stage at the Niswonger.  Some may say he is past his prime, but it is his prime that earns him the opportunity to perform for us.  Not only that, according to his daughter, Debby, who stole our hearts in concert two years ago, “Dad still sounds good and has a very entertaining show you will really enjoy!”

Pat Boone is still very active and just released a new album entitled Legacy with 17 new recordings.  He does TV commercials and two radio shows currently.  Not bad for a man of 81 years!

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.  Pat says, “Thank goodness, I had a couple hit songs at the time because I had to follow Elvis Presley!”  Pat’s 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.

“Music & Memories” — come share them with Pat Boone at the Niswonger on Sunday afternoon, March 8 for a 3 p.m. show.  You’ll be glad you did.

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.  On Saturday, March 21, Mr. Bates will present a talk on the contributions of African-American composers of music.  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.  All are welcome to stay after the talk and see how a master pianist transforms these young budding pianists.  Both of these events are free and open to the public as part of our Speaker/Lecture Series and educational outreach.

The following afternoon, Sunday, March 22, at 3 p.m., Leon Bates will take the stage in a formal piano concert, demonstrating his power, finesse, and virtuosity on our Baldwin SD 10 concert grand piano.  Tickets for this concert range from $10 to $20 and are available at the box office or online at npacvw.org.

My final “P” is park!  What has turned out to be another rough winter needs a shot of hope. That will come soon as The Van Wert County Foundation reveals the Fountain Park Summer Music line-up in the near future. Just think, in about three months you’ll be planting your lawn chairs on the green grass of Fountain Park under blue skies and take in some of the finest summer music you’ll ever hear.

This is the first notice to VW County non-profit organizations: you may start submitting requests to The Foundation office (419.238.1743) for consideration of selling food in the park.  If you were not selected last year, you are eligible for this year. We will take names throughout the month of March and make selections on April 1. Now if this doesn’t warm you up, nothing will.  Hope springs eternal — especially when you are talking music!

So, remember your three “P’s”- Pat (Boone), Pianist, Leon Bates, and Park Music.  I will see you at one or all three.

FINÉ.