Articles and Reviews - Archives 52

When Where Articles/Reviews October 8, 2010 USA Today Barry Manilow's music program a huge hit with students When public school budgets get cut, it's no secret that arts and music programs are usually the first to go. Luckily for students in Las Vegas, that won't be the case. Singer-songwriter Barry Manilow, who is performing in Vegas for the next two years, launched the Manilow Music Project in 2008 to get music instruments into the hands of middle and high school students around the country. His latest effort? A locally-focused music instrument drive, which resulted in a donation drop yesterday of thousands of dollars' worth of musical instruments into the hands of fifteen Clark County School District middle schools and high schools. Indeed, fans who brought a new or gently-used musical instrument to the Paris Théâtre box office last month received a voucher to a Manilow performance date of their choice. The drive ultimately impacted 600 students who may not have had a chance to pursue music study otherwise. "The Las Vegas Community has been so kind to me; it is a pleasure to be bringing instruments to these kids. With public school music programs so severely depleted, it's more important than ever to do what we can to keep the music alive," says Manilow, who credits his own secondary school music program as the reason for his success. "I'm honored to be able to give the gift of music to so many not just for a night, but for a lifetime." For more information on the program, visit the Manilow Music Project website. October 8, 2010 Broadway World Manilow Music Project Donates Instruments In Vegas Legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow's non-profit organization, the Manilow Music Project put more than $500,000 worth of musical instruments into the hands of 15 Clark County School District middle schools and high schools during a ceremony on Thursday, October 7 at Valley High School in Clark County, Nevada. Reinvigorating the school system's music program at a critical time of need; this is the single largest donation of its kind in Clark County history for a music program. "The happiest mayor in the world," Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, was also on hand, as the five semi-trucks left directly from the event to drop the brand new instruments at schools across Clark County. Manilow is currently performing more than 78 shows a year for two years at the Paris Théâtre at Paris Las Vegas. Tickets for performances through January 16, 2011 are available on-line at Vegas.com or Ticketmaster.com, in person at the Paris Théâtre box office, or by calling 1.800.745.3000. Ticket prices are $250, $175, $125, $95 and $65. Front Row tickets for these dates are available now at www.FrontRowManilow.com. Visit www.parislasvegas.com for room and ticket packages. For more information on Barry Manilow at Paris Las Vegas visit www.ManilowParis.com. October 8, 2010 Las Vegas Review-Journal "Singer Manilow rights the wrongs done to schools' music programs: Donates truckloads of instruments to district" by Kristi Jourdan Barry Manilow searched for a bridge across the generation gap as he faced hundreds of Clark County students Thursday at the Valley High School football field. The students knew the nicely tanned man clad in a black leather jacket with his hair perfectly in place was there to give five truckloads of instruments, worth more than $500,000, to the school district. But who was this generous man? "I used to be the Justin Bieber of the '70s," Manilow said, chuckling. The kids screamed loudly. He'd struck a chord. "I don't think they know who I am," Manilow joked with reporters. Bieber can only hope for Manilow's success. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter had a string of Top 40 hits including "Mandy," "Copacabana" and "I Write the Songs" and has sold more than 80 million records worldwide. He's become a top Vegas draw. Manilow dubbed Thursday's event "Extreme Makeover: Band Edition." "You know, what I discovered is that the instruments in these schools are in such bad shape, if they have them at all," he said. "The teachers themselves fix them up or they get part-time jobs so they can make money to fix the instruments so they can teach the kids to play." He then motioned for five delivery trucks from the national Manilow Music Project, formed in 2008 as part of his nonprofit Manilow Health and Hope Fund, to drive to schools and deliver their loads. Some of the instruments were collected at the Paris Theatre box office, where fans brought new and gently used musical instruments to receive a voucher for a Manilow concert. At least 600 students at 15 middle and high schools throughout the district will be able to play music with new instruments. It's a relief for Valley High School principal Ron Montoya, who said his school is the second poorest in the district. "We've been in existence since 1965, and we have some instruments from then," Montoya said. "We are upgrading significantly. We need as much help as possible. With a lack of bond funds and funding for schools, you never know when we can fix up the instruments, if we can at all." Valley High will receive about 100 instruments. Manilow has "taken the opportunity to make a difference in Las Vegas and to make sure our schoolchildren will have instruments they can play to bring joy to whomever listens," said Mayor Oscar Goodman. School Board President Terri Janison vowed to protect music programs in the district despite tough economic times and budget cuts. "We will not cut music in our programs," she said. Manilow talked to the kids about growing up in a rough section of Brooklyn, N.Y. There were sports teams. There were gangs. And then there was the school orchestra. "It saved my life. It pointed me in the direction that I am right now," Manilow said. "Then I'm seeing budgetary problems, and they're cutting music in all those public schools all across the country. It just about killed me. I couldn't let that happen. It makes me happy we can do something like this. Maybe we can make a difference." October 8, 2010 Bodog Beat Barry Manilow Gives Back to Vegas Vegas superstar, Barry Manilow, has found a way to give back to the city that has embraced his singing act for years; he is supporting Vegas school music programs by donating thousands of musical instruments to students of Las Vegas Schools. His project is called the Manilow Music Project which has been focusing on providing kids with musical instruments since 2008, and this year he unloaded 5 trailer trucks full of instruments worth over $500,000 to middle schools and high schools in the Clark County School District. "The Las Vegas Community has been so kind to me; it is a pleasure to be bringing instruments to these kids. With public school music programs so severely depleted, it's more important than ever to do what we can to keep the music alive," said Manilow. This program is important to Manilow who feels his high school music program contributed to his success. According to Robyn Leach from the Las Vegas Sun, Manilow who presented the instruments to students, told them that they were probably wondering why he was there and went on to say how he was the Justin Beiber of the 70’s – for those that didn’t know who the guy was. Either way, students were happy to receive the instruments that wouldn’t otherwise be available. Kudos to Mr. Copacabana for giving back to the city that shaped him. Manilow will be headlining his own show in Vegas for the next two years at the Paris Hotel. October 8, 2010 WTAM 1100 Barry Manilow donates thousands of dollars for musical instruments: Barry Manilow's non-profit organization, the Manilow Music Project donated musical instruments to Clark County Schools Barry Manilow's non-profit ogranization, the Manilow Music Project, made music in Clark County, Nevada with donations to 15 middle and high schools. The donations will allow students, who could not afford musical instruments, to participate in the music programs at the schools. It will also help keep the music programs alive, at a time when schools across the country are shutting down music programs due to lack of funding. Manilow feels strongly about keeping music programs in schools saying, "the Las Vegas Community has been so kind to me; it is a pleasure to be bringing instruments to these kids. With public school music programs so severely depleted, it's more important than ever to do what we can to keep the music alive." For more information on how you can help please visit the Manilow Music Project's website. October 7, 2010 My News 3 - KSNV (Las Vegas) "Barry Manilow keeping music alive in Clark County schools with instrument donations" by Denise Rosch It’s a very real fear among teachers in the Clark County School District: What will get cut as the state tries to balance the budget? One possibility has always been the arts. However, a Las Vegas headliner is making sure that doesn’t happen. It’s not every day you see middle school students cheering a campus delivery. But at Bridger, Christmas has arrived early. A truck-full of brand new, still in boxes, instruments was donated to the Bridger Music Department. But to understand what this means, you need to back up a few hours to a unique assembly on the football field at Valley High School. There, the music legend took the podium. "You know you’re staring at me... you don’t know what the hell I do, right? I used to be the Justin Bieber of the 70s, did you know that?" Singer-songwriter Barry Manilow is donating a half million dollars worth of instruments to Clark County schools. He has pledged to save music programs in the midst of Nevada’s tough economic times. "...and here came this problem of them cutting because of budgetary problems; cutting music classes around the country. And I said, whoa, this is important to me. Without my orchestra class in high school, I wouldn’t be here. I really wouldn’t be here." "You never know who’s going to get the ax again," Valley High School Principal Ron Montoya said. "The state has a $3 billion budget shortage. What’s going to happen? You never know, music can go by the wayside." Montoya says what Manilow has done has given more students the chance to participate. Fifteen schools are included in round one of the giveaway. Many of the campuses are in at-risk neighborhoods. There’s no question that for a lot of families, the cost of an instrument is a huge factor. Some kids with a lot of potential may be left out because their parents simply can’t afford band. Bridger band teacher Matthew Symes believes music helps students jump ahead academically and go places they never thought they would. "I can say I marched in the Rose Bowl parade, my family can say they’ve marched in the Macy’s parade, because of band, because of music." All of the schools receiving instruments went through an application process. We’re told this is just Phase One of Manilow’s music project. October 7, 2010 KLAS-TV (Las Vegas) Manilow Music Project Puts Instruments in the Hands of Kids LAS VEGAS -- Bearing the brunt of budget cuts, music teachers say there are fewer instruments to go around, and that means the students who can't afford their own are often out of luck. Legendary singer Barry Manilow saw the need and is putting 600 new instruments into the hands of students through his Manilow Music Project. It's the largest donation of its kind for Clark County music program. Manilow says orchestra played an important role in his life early on and is doing what he can to afford schools and families going through tough times the ability to make music. Five semi-trucks full of brand new instruments took off to their destinations. Bridger Middle School's band program is one of the selected recipients. Jada Wilson plays the flute. Like her class, she got a crash course in Barry Manilow 101. "I've heard his songs, but I never knew he was the one singing them," she said. "He called himself the Justin Bieber of the 1970's. I think they could kind of relate to that," said band teacher Matthew Syms. The much-needed brand new instruments finally arrived at Bridger, a magnet school mixed with low-income students. Manilow says band allowed him to be creative and gave him confidence. "I felt like I knew where I was. I felt like I was grounded in that orchestra class -- I could be funny and smart." The donation affords these students to do that. Thankful for their gifts, Wilson says her classmates are the newest Fanilows. Manilow got a kick out of Valley High's rendition of Copacabana. He says it was it pretty good, considering the song came out before any of them were born. The donation was part of the Manilow Music Project that the legendary singer says gives him a chance to share his love of music with thousands of aspiring young musicians. October 7, 2010 Las Vegas Weekly "Barry Manilow donates musical instruments to 15 Las Vegas schools" by Robin Leach It’s a staggering and generous gift of epic proportions! Superstar singer-songwriter Barry Manilow donated hundreds of thousands of dollars of musical instruments to 15 Las Vegas and Clark County Schools this morning. The donation of instruments was so huge that it filled five semi trucks. After Barry’s presentation at Valley High School to Mayor Oscar Goodman and hundreds of music teachers and schoolchildren, the trucks were dispatched to start deliveries to middle and high schools. The Manilow Music Project donated more than $500,000 in instruments to 15 schools in the Clark County School District, including schools as far as Indian Springs and Laughlin. Barry "gave the word" for the trucks to begin delivering. He said that it was similar to Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, except this was the Manilow Music Edition. Barry yelled, "Start those trucks!," and they departed. On a funny note, Barry told the students that they were probably wondering why he was there, but he promised them that he was the "Justin Bieber of the '70s." Morning DJ Melanie from KSNE Sunny 106.5 hosted the presentation by Barry’s Manilow Music Project, part of his Manilow Fund for Health and Hope formed in 2008 in response to the needs of public schools and their depleted music programs. Barry has made similar extraordinary donations in Southern California and in the Palm Springs area where he lives. When he moved from the Las Vegas Hilton to his new two-year contract run at the Paris, he told me that he wanted to extend the gift giving to Las Vegas. "It's more important than ever to do what we can to keep music alive with the public school music programs so severely hit. I know what it meant to me and my career being able to learn and play music in school," Barry said. "It is a pleasure for me to bring music to these kids." In fact, fans even brought new and gently used musical instruments to his Paris theater box office in exchange for tickets to watch the legendary entertainer perform. Barry donated a portion of each night’s box office receipts to the charity. The Manilow Music Project also is funded by Paris Platinum Experience Tickets, which are sold at all performances and guarantee a front-row seat, pre-show champagne and a meet-and-greet and photograph with the star who also autographs the show program. Barry said this is just the first phase of his gift giving to Las Vegas schools, and he hopes that the next one will be an even larger contribution. October 7, 2010 TheaterMania "Barry Manilow and Royal Philharmonic to Play London's 02 Arena in May 2011" by Dan Bacalzo Tony and Grammy Award winner Barry Manilow will perform with The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra at the 02 Arena in London, May 4-7. Manilow's Broadway credits include his Tony Award-winning Barry Manilow on Broadway and Barry Manilow at the Gershwin. He also contributed songs to Bette Midler's Clams on the Half Shell Revue and The Madwoman of Central Park West. In the West End, his music was featured in Barry Manilow's Copacabana - The Musical, which went on to tour the U.S., Australia and Asia. He currently performs a regular gig at Paris Las Vegas. October 7, 2010 Broadway World Barry Manilow Brings New Orchestra Show To London At The 02 Arena 5/4-7 Legendary showman Barry Manilow announces a unique musical extravaganza at the O2 Arena on May 4, 5, 6, and 7. He will be joined on stage for the first time ever by one of the most pre-eminent orchestras performing in the world today, The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. The idea for the two to perform together was born through his sell-out headline performance at last year's prestigious Proms In The Park. The Independent said of this performance: "Barry Manilow is one of the giants of world show business." The Times concurs that: "Manilow's magic remains alive and thriving." He will be performing all of his most loved classics and excerpts from his new album "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time" at the O2. Barry Manilow says: "I was honoured to be asked to perform at Proms in the Park last year, it was a huge thrill to have been a part of such an iconic British event. It will be a sheer joy to perform again for my British fans at the O2 Arena alongside one of the best orchestras in the world, but this time the show will even bigger and even better and I'm planning to blow the roof off of the arena!" Tickets go on-sale Friday 8th October from: The O2 Arena: 0844 856 0202 / www.theo2.co.uk The National Credit Card Hotline: 0844 888 9991 / www.ticketline.co.uk BMIFC Member tickets are available now by calling 001.310.957.5788 or by going online at www.starz.bz/bmifcuk About Barry Manilow: "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time" is out now in the UK, and is Barry Manilow's follow-up to the mega best-selling series of "Decades" albums that he masterminded with Clive Davis. The series began in January 2006 with "The Greatest Songs Of The Fifties", which entered the Billboard 200 album chart at #1, and was certified RIAA platinum "The Greatest Songs Of The Seventies" entered at #4 (September 2007), Barry Manilow was distinguished as the only artist to chart three Top 5 debuts during 2006-2007. The most recent entry in the series, "The Greatest Songs Of The Eighties" was released November 2008. Beyond the sensational "Decades" series, Arista is the home to Manilow's biggest hits including "Mandy," "It's a Miracle," "Could It Be Magic," "I Write the Songs," "Looks Like We Made It," "Can't Smile Without You," "Copacabana ( At the Copa)," "Somewhere In the Night," "Ships," "I Made It Through the Rain," and many, many more. With the worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records); with no less than 25 consecutive top 40 hits to his credit between 1975 and 1983, on the Billboard Hot 100. Manilow has worked on over 40 albums over the course of his career as a singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. October 7, 2010 News-Press (Southwest Florida) Barry Manilow tickets on sale Oct. 8 Barry Manilow has announced a series of first-ever Florida symphony concerts backed by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra of Punta Gorda in January. Beginning on Jan. 20, Manilow will bring his greatest hits to the state. Tickets for the following shows are available: - Jan. 20 at Orlando's Amway Center - Jan. 21 at Tampa's St. Pete Times Forum - Jan. 26 at Jacksonville's Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena - Jan. 28 at Fort Lauderdale's Bank Atlantic Center - Jan. 29 at Miami's Bank United Center Tickets are available online at Manilow.com, ManilowFlorida.com, or Ticketmaster.com; or at 10 a.m. today in person at select venues, or by calling 800-745-3000. Front Row Manilow tickets are available only at FrontRowManilow.com. October 6, 2010 Stereo Board "Barry Manilow Adds New Show To London O2 Arena Residency & Tickets" by Jon Stickler Barry Manilow, the international superstar who began his career as a pianist for Bette Midler in New York Bars, has extended his three night residency at London's O2 Arena next May. With his career now spanning recording, songwriting, television, film and stage work, its amazing that Barry Manilow still has time to take his show to the road. One of the world's biggest stars, he has announced details of another show at London O2 Arena on the 7th May 2011. Armed with a catalogue of smash hits that include 'Mandy' and 'Copacabana', Barry Manilow should be on fine form for his London shows following the March 2010 launch of his brand new show at Las Vegas' Paris hotel. The shows in May are rumoured to be the culmination of a series of massive shows due to take place at O2 venues later this year and early 2011. Barry Manilow will play the following UK shows: May 2011 4th O2 Arena, London 5th O2 Arena, London 6th O2 Arena, London 7th O2 Arena, London – NEW DATE Tickets for the new show are onsale from 9am on Friday 8th October. Tickets for all other shows are onsale now.

When Where Articles/Reviews October 1, 2010 Broadway World Manilow Music Project Donates Instruments to Clark County School District 10/7 Legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow's non-profit organization, the Manilow Music Project, will put tens of thousands of dollars of musical instruments into the hands of fifteen Clark County School District middle schools and high schools at a celebratory delivery and distribution event on Thursday, October 7th, 2010 at Valley High School in Clark County, Nevada. Reinvigorating the school system's music program at a critical time of need, and credited with putting instruments in the hands of 600 students who would otherwise be unable to participate; this is the single largest donation of its kind in Clark County history for a music program. Following the presentation, five semi-trucks brimming with musical instruments will be launched from the site to deliver the instruments to middle and high schools throughout Clark County. Manilow, Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, district officials and hundreds of music teachers and students from the Clark County School District will be in attendance for the presentation, which will be hosted by Deejay Melanie from KSNE Sunny 106.5's "Melanie and Michael in the Morning." A portion of the instruments were collected through the Paris Théâtre box office, where fans can bring new and gently used musical instruments to receive a voucher for the Barry Manilow performance date of their choice. Manilow credits his own secondary school music program as the genesis of his devotion to a legendary career in music, and considers the Manilow Music Project his chance to share that love of music with thousands of aspiring young musicians. In response to the needs of the local public schools and their severely depleted music programs, Barry Manilow gathered some friends and formed The Manilow Music Project (MMP) as part of his nonprofit Manilow Health and Hope Fund. The mission statement of the Manilow Music Project highlights the importance of music programs in our schools and donates instruments and materials to school music programs. The Manilow Music Project is also funded by the Manilow Paris Platinum Experience Tickets. "The Las Vegas Community has been so kind to me; it is a pleasure to be bringing instruments to these kids. With public school music programs so severely depleted, it's more important than ever to do what we can to keep the music alive," says Manilow. "The incredible generosity of the Manilow Music Project is an outstanding example of community support that enriches students," said Superintendent Walt Rulffes. "Thanks to Barry Manilow and his staff, thousands of Clark County School District students will have the opportunity to open their worlds and share their talents through music and the performing arts." Manilow is currently performing more than 78 shows a year for two years at the Paris Théâtre at Paris Las Vegas. The shows are produced by STILETTO Entertainment in conjunction with AEG Live and Paris Las Vegas. The Platinum Experience Ticket (which funds the MMP to make these opportunities possible), includes a front row seat, pre-show champagne reception, meet & greet and photo with Barry Manilow, and an autographed show program. Fans can book online at www.starz.bz/manilowfund or by calling 310.957.5788. Tickets for performances through January 16, 2011 are available on-line at Vegas.com or Ticketmaster.com, in person at the Paris Théâtre box office, or by calling 1.800.745.3000. Ticket prices are $250, $175, $125, $95 and $65. Front Row tickets for these dates are available now at www.FrontRowManilow.com. Visit www.parislasvegas.com for room and ticket packages. For more information on Barry Manilow at Paris Las Vegas visit www.ManilowParis.com. Directed by renowned stage and film choreographer and director Jeffrey Hornaday (FLASHDANCE, A CHORUS LINE, HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 4), this new show casts Manilow's hits in a new light in the intimate and elegant 1,500 seat Paris Théâtre. Including exhilarating new video elements and all the songs that have made him a pop culture icon over the past 35 years, the show brings the energy, sincerity and melody of Manilow at his best to a spectacular yet personal crescendo. With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records); with no less than 25 consecutive top 40 hits to his credit between 1975 and 1983, on the Billboard Hot 100. Manilow has worked on over 40 albums over the course of his career as a singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. He recently released 'The Greatest Love Songs of All Time,' a new album chronicling the most touching love songs ever written. October 1, 2010 Las Vegas Weekly "Barry Manilow to donate musical instruments to 15 Las Vegas schools" by Robin Leach It’s another extraordinary -- and mammoth -- act of generosity from superstar Strip entertainer Barry Manilow. Next week, the singer-songwriter will present five semi-trucks loaded with musical instruments to severely depleted school music programs. Students at no less than 15 schools in Las Vegas and Clark County will be recipients of the large gift valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Our merry Mayor of Mirth Oscar Goodman will join with hundreds of music teachers and students for the presentation Thursday. Barry runs Manilow Music Project as part of Manilow Fund for Health and Hope formed in 2008 to assist needs of public schools and financially depleted music programs. His charity furthers music education in the country with donations of instruments and related materials. Barry has been praised in his hometown of Palm Springs, Calif., for his amazing philanthropic efforts and music gifts throughout Southern California. When he signed his two-year residency at the Paris, he vowed to do the same here. Fans have even brought new and gently used instruments to his box office in exchange for a free ticket to shows and meets-and-greets after performances. “With public school music programs so severely depleted, it’s more important than ever to do what we can to keep the music alive. It is a pleasure to bring music to these kids,” Barry said in a statement. Vegas DeLuxe and Barry’s fans applaud him for his amazing gift. September 26, 2010 RTT News Barry Manilow Announces Florida Symphony Shows Barry Manilow will be performing a series of symphony-backed concerts in Florida for the first time, the singer recently announced. The concerts will feature Manilow in collaboration with The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra of Punta Gorda, Florida. The tour will kick off in Orlando on January 20, with stops in Tampa on January 21, Jacksonville on January 26, and Fort Lauderdale on January 28 before wrapping up on January 29 in Miami. "I am thrilled to share the stage with such an impressive collection of musicians and bring some of my greatest hits to Florida fans for this exclusive series," Manilow said in a statement. Manilow recently wrapped up sold-out one-night engagements at Boardwalk Hall in [Atlantic City] which featured backing by the New York Pops. September 22, 2010 Hollywood News "Barry Manilow to play with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra" by Linny Lum Legendary musician and performer Barry Manilow announces a series of first-ever Florida symphony concerts backed by The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra of Punta Gorda, Florida in January of 2011. Beginning on January 20th, and stretching across five major Florida cities, Manilow will bring his greatest hits to the Sunshine State. Tickets will be available to the general public on September 24. VIP and BMIFC advance tickets are presently on sale at Manilow.com. The Florida concert series is an entirely exclusive and distinct experience from Manilow’s current critically acclaimed Paris Las Vegas residency shows, and features The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra plus Manilow’s Band and Cast from his Las Vegas Show. The concerts, produced in partnership with STILETTO Entertainment and BRE Presents, will mark the first time Manilow has performed with an orchestral accompaniment in Florida. Recently, Manilow wowed fans in Atlantic City with a one-night-only show backed by the esteemed New York Pops to a sold-out crowd at Caesar's Boardwalk Hall. Prior to that, he lit up the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, to rave response. While in both cities, and in signature Manilow fashion, he was able to raise money and collect instruments for the Manilow Music Project to benefit local school music programs. The Manilow Music Project provides scholarships and musical instruments to secondary and high school music programs throughout the country. Tickets for the following performances are now available: January 20th at Orlando’s Amway Center January 21st at Tampa’s St. Pete Times Forum January 26th at Jacksonville’s Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena January 28th at Ft. Lauderdale’s Bank Atlantic Center January 29th at Miami’s Bank United Center September 21, 2010 Press Release SOURCE: STILETTO Entertainment Barry Manilow Brings the Hits to Florida in a First-Time-Ever Symphony Concert Series: Manilow Concerts With Sixty Piece Orchestra Will Take Place Across Major Florida Cities LOS ANGELES, Sept. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Legendary musician and performer Barry Manilow announces a series of first-ever Florida symphony concerts backed by The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra of Punta Gorda, Florida in January of 2011. Beginning on January 20th, and stretching across five major Florida cities, Manilow will bring his greatest hits to the Sunshine State. Tickets will be available to the general public on September 24. VIP and BMIFC advance tickets are presently on sale at Manilow.com. The Florida concert series is an entirely exclusive and distinct experience from Manilow's current critically acclaimed Paris Las Vegas residency shows, and features The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra plus Manilow's Band and Cast from his Las Vegas Show. The concerts, produced in partnership with STILETTO Entertainment and BRE Presents, will mark the first time Manilow has performed with an orchestral accompaniment in Florida. Recently, Manilow wowed fans in Atlantic City with a one-night-only show backed by the esteemed New York Pops to a sold-out crowd at Caesars Boardwalk Hall. Prior to that, he lit up the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, to rave response. While in both cities, and in signature Manilow fashion, he was able to raise money and collect instruments for the Manilow Music Project to benefit local school music programs. The Manilow Music Project provides scholarships and musical instruments to secondary and high school music programs throughout the country. More information on the Manilow Music Project can be found at http://www.manilowmusicproject.org/. "I am thrilled to share the stage with such an impressive collection of musicians and bring some of my greatest hits to Florida fans for this exclusive series," says Manilow. Tickets for the following performances are now available: January 20th at Orlando's Amway Center January 21st at Tampa's St. Pete Times Forum January 26th at Jacksonville's Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena January 28th at Ft. Lauderdale's Bank Atlantic Center January 29th at Miami's Bank United Center Tickets are available online at Manilow.com, ManilowFlorida.com, or Ticketmaster.com on Friday, September 24th at 10AM (EDT), in person at select venues, or by calling 1.800.745.3000. FRONT ROW MANILOW tickets are available only at www.FrontRowManilow.com. BMIFC Tickets are also available at www.starz.bz/bmifc or by calling 310.957.5788. A limited number of PLATINUM tickets are available at www.starz.bz/manilowfund or by calling 310.957.5788. With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records); with no less than 25 consecutive top 40 hits to his credit between 1975 and 1983, on the Billboard Hot 100. Manilow has worked on over 40 albums over the course of his career as a singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. He recently released "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time," a new album chronicling the most touching love songs ever written. Manilow is currently performing more than 78 shows a year for two years at the Paris Theatre at Paris Las Vegas, having added even more dates to this residency due to incredibly high demand. Those shows are produced by STILETTO Entertainment in conjunction with AEG Live and Paris Las Vegas. September 22, 2010 ANTImusic.com Barry Manilow Symphony Barry Manilow announces a series of first ever Florida symphony concerts backed by The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra of Punta Gorda, Florida in January of 2011. Beginning on January 20th, and stretching across five major Florida cities, Manilow will bring his greatest hits to the Sunshine State. "I am thrilled to share the stage with such an impressive collection of musicians and bring some of my greatest hits to Florida fans for this exclusive series," says Manilow. Recently, Manilow wowed fans in Atlantic City with a one-night-only show backed by the esteemed New York Pops to a sold-out crowd at Caesars Boardwalk Hall. Prior to that, he lit up the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, to rave response. January 20th at Orlando's Amway Center January 21st at Tampa's St. Pete Times Forum January 26th at Jacksonville's Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena January 28th at Ft. Lauderdale's Bank Atlantic Center January 29th at Miami's Bank United Center September 21, 2010 News-Press.com Barry Manilow to be backed by Punta Gorda orchestra for Florida symphony tour Barry Manilow announces a series of first-ever Florida symphony concerts backed by The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra of Punta Gorda in January. Beginning on Jan. 20, and visiting across five major Florida cities, Manilow will bring his greatest hits to the Sunshine State. The Florida concert series is an entirely exclusive and distinct experience from Manilow’s current Paris Las Vegas residency shows, and features The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra plus Manilow’s band and cast from his Las Vegas show, according to a news release. The concerts, produced in partnership with STILETTO Entertainment and BRE Presents, will mark the first time Manilow has performed with an orchestral accompaniment in Florida. He has raised money and collect instruments for the Manilow Music Project to benefit local school music programs. The Manilow Music Project provides scholarships and musical instruments to secondary and high school music programs throughout the country. More information on the Manilow Music Project can be found at manilowmusicproject.org. Tickets for the following performances are now available: - Jan. 20 at Orlando’s Amway Center - Jan. 21 at Tampa’s St. Pete Times Forum - Jan. 26 at Jacksonville’s Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena - Jan. 28 at Fort Lauderdale’s Bank Atlantic Center - Jan. 29 at Miami’s Bank United Center Tickets are available online at Manilow.com, ManilowFlorida.com, or Ticketmaster.com at 10 EST Friday, in person at select venues, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. FRONT ROW MANILOW tickets are available only at FrontRowManilow.com. BMIFC Tickets are also available at starz.bz/bmifc or by calling 310-957-5788. A limited number of PLATINUM tickets are available at starz.bz/manilowfund or by calling 310-957-5788.

When Where Articles/Reviews August 29, 2010 Broadway World Music Producer Clive Davis attends Barry Manilow show at Paris Las Vegas Multiple Grammy-Award winner and legendary music producer, Clive Davis, attended the 7:30 p.m. performance of Barry Manilow last night at Paris Las Vegas. Clive Davis is an American record producer, executive and music industry executive. He has won multiple Grammy awards and is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. From 1967-72 he was the President of Columbia Records, was the founder and president of Arista Records in the late 1970s through 2000 until founding J Records. From 2002 until April 2008, Davis was the Chairman and CEO of the RCA Music Group (which included RCA Records, J Records and Arista Records), Chairman and CEO of J Records, and Chairman and CEO of BMG North America. Currently Davis is the Chief Creative Officer of Sony Music Entertainment Worldwide. He is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a non-performer. He currently plays a part in the careers of Alicia Keys, Kelly Clarkson, Harry Connick, Jr., Leona Lewis, Barry Manilow, and Whitney Houston. Legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow is making music and magic at Paris Las Vegas with a reimagined stage show that is both more intimate and more exciting than ever before. Manilow will perform 78 shows each year for two years at Paris Las Vegas. The shows are produced by AEG Live in conjunction with Paris Las Vegas. Tickets for performances through July 18, 2010 are currently on-sale. "The audience in Vegas is always energized and electric, so I know that the Paris Las Vegas is going to be a special run," said Manilow. "I'm planning something new for this performance; definitely not to be missed." Directed by renowned stage and film choreographer and director Jeffrey Hornaday (Flashdance, A Chorus Line, High School Musical), this new show casts Manilow's hits in a new light in the intimate and elegant 1,500 seat Paris Théâtre. Including exhilarating new video elements and all the songs that have made him a pop culture icon over the past 35 years, the show brings the energy, sincerity and melody of Manilow at his best to a spectacular yet personal crescendo. "This is a very special show," said Director and Co-Creator Jeffrey Hornaday. "Barry has handcrafted a production that is incredibly personal and nuanced. The result is an original, moving, and thrilling theatrical experience. For me personally, it has been the most exciting creative process I've ever participated in." With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records); with no less than 25 consecutive top 40 hits to his credit between 1975 and 1983, on the Billboard Hot 100. Manilow has worked on over 40 albums over the course of his career as a singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. He recently released "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time," a new album chronicling the most touching love songs ever written. Las Vegas middle school and high school music programs will benefit from Manilow's new contract with Paris by sharing in the proceeds of the special, weekly Platinum Experience Tickets. Platinum Experience Tickets which include a front row seat, pre-show champagne reception, meet & greet and photo with Barry Manilow, and an autographed show program are available now at www.ManilowParis.com or at 310.957.5788. Proceeds from Platinum Experience Tickets go directly to the Manilow Music Project. The Manilow Music Project is part of Manilow's non-profit, The Manilow Fund for Health and Hope and will put instruments into the hands of middle school and high school students in the Las Vegas Unified School District. Tickets are available on-line at www.Ticketmaster.com, in person at the Paris Théâtre box office, or by calling 1.800.745.3000. Ticket prices are $250, $175, $125, and $95. Visit www.parislasvegas.com for room and ticket packages. For more information on Barry Manilow at Paris Las Vegas visit www.ManilowParis.com. August 24, 2010 VEGAS.com Manilow Music Project puts instruments in kids’ hands and show tickets in yours Not only does he “write the songs that make the whole world sing,” but he’s giving them instruments too. Legendary singer/songwriter Barry Manilow is putting instruments in the hands of students in the Clark County School District with his non-profit organization, the Manilow Music Project (MMP). Through the MMP guests who bring a new or gently used musical instrument to the Paris Theater will receive a voucher to see Manilow’s new show at Paris Las Vegas for the performance date of their choice. Donations are being accepted now through October when Manilow will present the school district with the donated instruments. The MMP is part of The Manilow Fund for Health and Hope and was formed in response to the needs of public schools and their depleted music programs. MMP aids music programs around the country by donating instruments and materials to facilitate music education. VEGAS.com had a chance to sit down with the music superstar to talk about his new show and why music is such an important part of the everyday curriculum for students. “Music classes are not just play time,” says Manilow. “Music classes make these kids, from what I heard, their grades go up, they become better people, they know how to interact with other children and most important, what I was told is that if you don’t have music classes, they won’t come back to school. They’ll drop out, and that’s what really got me,” said Manilow. Before opening his show at Paris in March 2010, Manilow wowed audiences as a headliner at the Las Vegas Hilton for five years. In his new show, Manilow performs with a live band and four back-up singers and dancers in an intimate 1,500-seat theater. “At the Hilton we did a little production, but at the Paris we really blew it up. I hired a guy named Jeffery Hornaday, a brilliant, brilliant director and the two of us created a real production, and that’s what’s here at Paris Las Vegas,” said Manilow. With more than 80 million records sold worldwide and a career spanning more than 35 years, Manilow is a music icon, but he just considers himself another guy in the band. “I am just a lucky musician. I am one of the guys that just got lucky,” said Manilow. August 23, 2010 ET Online Barry Manilow 'Can't Smile Without' Music & Arts Classes in Schools Barry Manilow has been entertaining audiences for more than 30 years, and the Grammy-winning performer credits music and arts classes he took in high school for guiding him towards his successful career. Now, schools are in jeopardy of losing these helpful classes, and Barry is asking for your help! "Because of budgetary problems around the country and [in] the schools, they're cutting music and arts classes, which just about killed me -- I don't know what I would have done without my music classes when I was growing up," Barry tells ET. "I felt, 'What can I do? I'm just one giddy singer.' So I donate money here and there and that's nice, but I thought maybe I could get the public to help do this." Barry asks that you contact your local school or even your old high school and ask them what they need: "You know they need a set of drums. You know they need a trumpet. And if you can afford it, just get them some musical instruments, and if you can't do that, go to my website, Manilow.com, and we'll tell you how to do it," he says. Barry is also asking the public to bring any musical instruments that may be collecting dust at home to the lobby of Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, where he performs his regular Vegas show. "Even if they're a little broken, we'll fix it up, and if they're not, we'll take 'em all and we'll send them out to the schools of Las Vegas, which are desperately in need of musical instruments," says Barry. "And you'll get a free ticket to my show, too. So, that sounds like a pretty good deal." For those who can't make it out to Vegas to see him perform, Barry also has a website, Manilow.TV, where you can catch a retrospective of his live performances. "I've been videotaping all my shows for 30 years; they were only meant for archives and for me to watch myself," he explains, "and now I'm opening up my archives to the public." In the spirit of helping young musicians, we asked Barry if he'd be willing to be a judge on "American Idol." He responds that despite the major time commitment required to do a weekly TV show, "I would love to do it, if I could really help them -- not just be a wise ass and tell them that they stink. If I could really help them like I did on the first couple of shows, and work with them, and see if I can teach them something, I would love to do that." [ ET ONLINE VIDEO BOX - BARRY MANILOW 08/23/2010 ] August 18, 2010 Broadway World Manilow Music Project to Benefit Clark County School District Students Legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow's non-profit organization, the Manilow Music Project, will put musical instruments into the hands of Clark County School District middle and high school students beginning with a major donation this Fall. Beginning August 18, fans who bring a new or gently used musical instrument to the Paris Théâtre box office will receive a voucher for the performance date of their choice. The Manilow Music Project (MMP) is part of The Manilow Fund for Health and Hope and was formed in response to the needs of public schools and their severely depleted music programs, and works towards highlighting these programs. Additionally, MMP aids these programs in the form of donations of instruments and materials to further music education around the country. "I'm honored to be able to give the gift of music to so many not just for a night, but for a lifetime," says Manilow. The Manilow Music Project is also funded by the Manilow Paris Platinum Experience Tickets, which are sold at all performances. The Platinum Experience Ticket includes a front row seat, pre-show champagne reception, meet & greet and photo with Barry Manilow, and an autographed show program. Fans can book online at www.starz.bz/manilowfund or by calling 310.957.5788. Manilow is currently performing 78 shows a year for two years at the Paris Théâtre at Paris Las Vegas. The shows are produced by STILETTO Entertainment in conjunction with AEG Live and Paris Las Vegas. Tickets for performances through January 16, 2011 are now available on-line at Vegas.com or Ticketmaster.com, in person at the Paris Théâtre box office, or by calling 1.800.745.3000. Ticket prices are $250, $175, $125, $95 and $65. Front Row tickets for these dates are available now at www.FrontRowManilow.com. Visit www.parislasvegas.com for room and ticket packages. For more information on Barry Manilow at Paris Las Vegas visit www.ManilowParis.com Directed by renowned stage and film choreographer and director Jeffrey Hornaday (Flashdance, A Chorus Line, High School Musical 4), this new show casts Manilow's hits in a new light in the intimate and elegant 1,500 seat Paris Théâtre. Including exhilarating new video elements and all the songs that have made him a pop culture icon over the past 35 years, the show brings the energy, sincerity and melody of Manilow at his best to a spectacular yet personal crescendo. With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records); with no less than 25 consecutive top 40 hits to his credit between 1975 and 1983, on the Billboard Hot 100. Manilow has worked on over 40 albums over the course of his career as a singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. He recently released "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time," a new album chronicling the most touching love songs ever written. August 14, 2010 Press of Atlantic City "Barry Manilow croons to fans at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City" by Regina Schaffer ATLANTIC CITY - Go ahead, try not to sing along to a Barry Manilow tune. From the moment Manilow appeared at the center of the Boardwalk Hall stage, singing his hit "Could It Be Magic" and backed by the 60-piece New York Pops orchestra, the crowd was almost compelled to sing every word. Manilow came to Boardwalk Hall on Saturday night for a special one-time performance with the New York Pops, presented by Caesars Atlantic City. The sold-out show marked Manilow's first concert this year outside of his standing gig at the Paris Theatre Las Vegas. "Hello, Atlantic City!" Manilow shouted to the frantic "fanilows" (the moniker given to Manilow's most loyal fans). "Looks like we've made it!" For Manilow, those words couldn't be more true. At 67 years old, Manilow still sounds unbelievable. Hitting every note and singing nearly every major hit of his four-decade career, Manilow never stopped moving, except to occasionally blot the sweat off his face with a towel. "After 30 years of albums ... give me a break, ya know?" Manilow joked between songs. The arrangement of the New York Pops behind Manilow's classics - especially hits like "Daybreak," "I Write the Songs" and "Weekend In New England," made for phenomenal live renditions. He also sprinkled in a few songs from his latest covers album, "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time." But for the most part, Manilow stuck to his own catalog, each song ending in a grand flourish from the orchestra. But Manilow really shines when the bright lights and flashy backup dancers leave the stage - and he's behind the piano. Singing his classic love ballad "Weekend in New England," Manilow's voice soared above the crescendo of violins and drums. "If you can't get lucky to this one, you're in trouble," Manilow joked. Manilow also used his rare chance with the orchestra to play a few hits he doesn't usually sing, including "When October Goes," a ballad he wrote based on an incomplete lyric by Johnny Mercer. "Let's try it and see if I can hit the F sharp," Manilow said. And, he did. "After all these years, I just never know if there's going to be an audience for me," Manilow said as the crowd cheered. "So thank you so much." Kicking the night off on a lighter note was Las Vegas entertainer Gordie Brown, who opened for Manilow. August 14, 2010 NBC40: WMGM-TV "Barry Manilow plays for Local Students to Benefit Music Education" by Jessica Klein ATLANTIC CITY -- Dozens of local music students were in for a special treat today, they attended the rehearsal for Barry Manilow's concert tonight in Atlantic City. The event is part of the famous singer's ongoing committment to preserving music education. The Manilow Music Project was formed in response to the needs of public schools depleting music programs. Atlantic City's high school music programs with benefit from Manilow's show by sharing in the proceeds of the special platinum experience tickets, of which the proceeds go directly toward the Manilow Music Project. Manilow's concert was held tonight at Boardwalk Hall. August 14, 2010 Press of Atlantic City "Barry Manilow shares tips, instruments with Atlantic City High School musicians" by Erik Ortiz ATLANTIC CITY - Barry Manilow bounded into Boardwalk Hall just a few hours before his concert Saturday night to greet some special guests - members of Atlantic City High School's marching band. The youngsters were invited to sit in on the Grammy Award-winning vocalist's rehearsal, filling up two rows of floor seats. Before his turn at the microphone, Manilow chatted with the students, telling them that when he was their age, he would attend shows and watch mesmerized from the audience. "I sat here like you are and I said, 'This is what I want to do,'" he told them. Behind him, the 60-piece New York Pops practiced the concert's opening song. The sounds of strings and drums and brass reverberated through the arena. "They have been working in the business all of their lives," Manilow said of the professional players. "Maybe that's what you'll end up doing." Some of the students said they dream about becoming musicians when they're older. "Mr. Manilow, how do I make it big as a drummer?" asked Ramier Brown, 16, of Atlantic City. "Do you read music?" "A little bit," Brown said. "That's the trick. That's the way you make a living. If you can read, you can work," Manilow advised him. "You can be as talented as you want, but you got to spend a couple of years just diving in and reading it. Then you can find out if you're brilliant." Demetrius Hart, who graduated from Atlantic City High School in June and played the snare drum in the band, was captivated by the intricacies of the concert. Sound check workers rushed the stage while the musicians played, the back-up singers grooved and mixing board professionals made sure it all came together. "Is some of this prerecorded?" asked Hart, 17, of Atlantic City. "This whole thing is live," Manilow told him before rushing up to the stage to practice his entrance. Besides giving students a chance to see the "Copacabana" crooner up close, Manilow and his charity also donated about 15 instruments to Atlantic City High School for its music program. Started in 2008, the Manilow Music Project collects money from ticket sales to purchase instruments for public schools. It also collects and repairs used instruments. Atlantic City High School band director Darryl Robinson said the instruments "come at a great time," as school districts are being squeezed by budget cuts and funding for ancillary programs such as music are jeopardized. But just the chance for some of the school's band members to witness a legendary performer in action was appreciated, the students said. "It's an honor to be invited to something this big," said Dominic Marinucci, a 16-year-old trumpet player from Ventnor. "We're going to remember this," added Josh Roldan, 15, of Ventnor, who plays tenor saxophone and wants to study music in college. Manilow, wearing a button-down shirt and black pants, belted out the final note to a song. The high school students fist-pumped and cheered him on. After more than an hour of watching, they were given tickets to the night's show - but they wouldn't get to go. They had their own performance. In a couple of hours, the youngsters would be at Showboat Casino Hotel to play for the Atlantic City High School Class of 1970's 40-year reunion. There, an audience would be clapping for them. August 12, 2010 Press of Atlantic City "Manilow's 'Pops' Hit: Barry Manilow returns to East Coast to perform with New York Pops" by Robert Digiacomo Barry Manilow is thinking big for the weekend's Boardwalk Hall date - his only appearance outside Las Vegas so far this year. The concert will feature the 60-piece New York Pops as the backing "band" for his extensive catalog of hits, including "Mandy," "Looks Like We Made It" and "Could It Be Magic." "I'm trying to do as many of the songs that people know," Manilow says during a recent phone interview from Palm Springs, Calif. "They sound fresh with an orchestra this size. I think the audience is going to be as thrilled as I am." Manilow, who recently signed a new two year-deal to appear regularly at Paris Las Vegas, got his first taste of performing with an orchestra in October, when he gave a concert at the Hollywood Bowl with a similar ensemble. Next spring, he's booked for another such engagement with the Royal Philharmonic at London's O2 arena. "It was the thrill of my life - I wanted to do it again," he says of the Hollywood Bowl performance. When Manilow first heard the musicians at the Hollywood Bowl play tracks such as "Even Now" and "I Write the Songs," he recalls, "my knees got weak." "We had a whole day of rehearsing these men and women," he says. "I'm a musician, too. I was giving out notes and suggesting how they should dig in and play. They became my band - 75 people, we were one. I always said, I'm a musician at heart. I know how to talk to musicians. I'd much rather have dinner with a trumpet player than some Hollywood star. I feel so comfortable with these people." Performing on the East Coast also marks a sort of homecoming for the Brooklyn native, who has spent much of the past decade in Las Vegas, including a five-year stint at the Las Vegas Hilton. "In Las Vegas, or anywhere else in the country, I have to slow down," he says. "The New Yorker in me wants to do what New Yorkers do - we talk fast, we walk fast, we act fast. In the '70s, I would assume everybody did that. But they didn't. I had to learn to communicate with the world. When I'm back on the East Coast, I feel as though I'm at home. I can communicate with audiences the way I do with my family." For his next project, the Grammy- and Emmy-winning performer is working on his first original music in some time, after focusing on a series of hit albums commemorating the greatest songs of the '50s, '60s, '70s and '80s, as well as the greatest love songs. The working title is "15 Minutes," and it will look at fame and its impact. The topic resonates with Manilow, who in the mid-'70s suddenly found himself thrust in the spotlight, after years of being a music director and producer for Bette Midler, among others. "I never, ever thought about being the guy who would stand up on the stage and sing," he says. "Coming from Brooklyn, I thought if I was lucky, I would have some kind of career as a musician, if I investigated what was out there as a composer and arranger." After Manilow hit it big at the age of 31, the experience changed him for a time. "Boy, that threw me for a loop - that was fame hitting you in the stomach like a bowling ball," he says. "It knocked me right off my feet. I was an adult. I wasn't Lindsay Lohan or any of these kids. I was an adult, and it knocked me for a loop. I don't know how these young people get through it. I call it your a--hole period. When that hits, you always go into your a--hole period for at least four years. If you're lucky, you pull yourself together and treat it as a job, and you're grateful you have a career like that." Having made it through that bubble, Manilow is appreciative of his success but even happier to have built a life offstage. "This is a great job, but the most important thing for me is playing with the dogs and going to the movies with friends and living my life," he says. "If it all went away right now, I would be a very grateful guy that I experienced it. I still have my own morals and know how to live my own life - that's the most important thing." Caesars Atlantic City presents Barry Manilow with the New York Pops. WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14. WHERE: Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City. HOW MUCH: Tickets, priced at $65, $95, $155 and $225, are available at the Caesars and Boardwalk Hall box offices or www.pressofatlanticcity.com/tickets. WEBSITE: www.barrymanilow.com

RETURN to Current Articles/Reviews... | CLICK HERE for More Articles/Reviews...
RETURN to Previous Page...

This Page Created April 18, 2011 (Last Updated June 25, 2011)

Barry Manilow International Fan Club and the BarryNet, ©2011

Return to Articles and Reviews...