I had the honor of studying under two amazing instructors while in college; Jerry Novak and Helen Holcombe. I had an immediate magical rapport with Helen; she was soft and encouraging. She knew I was not going to be a classically trained vocalist like my mother. She had a deep appreciation for the unique style and range that I brought to the table and she worked with me. Like all the other voice majors, I still had to learn and perform Italian arias but between our hard work on the classical front, she allowed me to explore my voice through its own unique channel. She encouraged me to include and perform my solo original music during concerts and was endlessly supportive. Thank you for hearing in me something beyond what you were trained to hear and for giving me opportunities to express and explore my true voice. You used to tell me that my writing reminded you of Carol King, and my voice reminded you of Carly Simon. That was nearly thirty years ago. Time is strange. 

Jerry was a completely different animal. I had my work cut out for me with him, and it did not help that he knew my last name; my father had quite the reputation for pulling some ridiculous stunts in the Bucks music program even though he was likely the most talented guitarist in there as well as my mother being a top vocalist. Jerry was not easily amused. I was daydreaming during Jerry's class when he called on me; I hadn't a clue what the man had even asked. His response: “Obviously she had beer for breakfast.” Quick eye roll and moved on to another student for the answer. I was mortified. I was 19, head in the clouds and loathed theory. I just wanted to play guitar, spend time in the jam room and explore my friendships.

The following semester, I had to repeat his class. "Here we go again", I thought to myself. But then I also thought, I'm going to show this asshole. And I did. I got an A in his class, and I distinctly remember him using me as an example of students who will make it to the end of the program. They tell you your first semester that by the end of the first semester, a third of you will be gone and by the end of the program, less than a third will remain. They liken a music degree to a math degree. 

Jerry wasn't an asshole. He was a king. I later joined his jazz group, "Swing Singers" and it literally changed my life forever. I found another level of my voice in that group. I loved singing with them; the deep musical connections I made during that time will remain with me forever. He supported me every time I chose a challenging solo piece like Twisted by Joni Mitchell or Ella Fitzgerald's, How High the Moon with a 7.5 minute scat solo, and he pushed me with my phrasing to places I didn't know I was capable of going. I was chosen to sing with the small acapella group and it was fascinating to me what voices can achieve when blended as one.

Later, after I graduated and was working as a professional musician and teacher, I was invited back to perform at his farewell concert when he was retiring. I played and sang an original jazz tune I wrote during my last year or so at college and I'll never forget turning my head to my side and seeing him backstage, behind the curtain, tearing up, lip quivering. I nearly broke down but somehow was able to keep going.

Now both angels, still guiding me, thank you Helen and Jerry for being part of my path. I will always cherish the times I had with you both; even the beer drinking comment!!  ; ) My voice is literally who I am and you both helped shape it. You will forever be a part of my instrument.