Renee Flemming News

Yesterday, December 5, the 33rd Annual Kennedy Center Honored celebrated the talents and contributions of singer and songwriter Merle Haggard; composer and lyricist Jerry Herman; dancer, choreographer and director Bill T. Jones; songwriter and musician Paul McCartney; and producer, television host and actress Oprah Winfrey.

Last night, October 14th, 2010, Sing for Hope (www.singforhope.org) presented its annual gala to raise awareness and support for Sing for Hope's programs that mobilize professional artists in volunteer service to benefit schools, hospitals and communities. The event also raised funds for the 2011 return of Sing for Hope Street Pianos, a public art installation that brought 60 upright pianos to the streets of New York this past summer, and embodies Sing for Hope's mission of making art available to all.

'Not to brag, but I've stood upon some pretty rarified podiums,' writes Glen Roven. 'But to be honest, nothing competes in the thrill department with playing a piano for a Broadway legend who is recreating an original performance. Talk about musical comedy heaven.'

With the passing of Fred Ebb, Onna White and, most recently, Cy Coleman, the 'death comes in threes' superstition seems to have a sorrowful twinge of truth.