Larry Woodard facts for kids

Larry Woodard (born February 25, 1949) is a talented American musician. He is known for being a pianist, singer, and a cabaret artist. Cabaret is a type of entertainment often performed in restaurants or clubs, featuring singing, comedy, and dancing. Larry is famous for being able to perform many different kinds of music.

Larry Woodard's Musical Journey

Larry Woodard is a versatile American pianist and singer. He is also known as a cabaret artist. Besides performing, he has worked as a choral conductor. He has also been an organist and a vocal coach. Larry even sang jingles for TV and radio commercials.

Master of Many Styles

The New York Times newspaper praised Larry's skills. They called him a "first-rate performer." They noted how easily he moves between classical music and cabaret. He can sing a jazz tune like "Ain't Misbehavin'." Then he might perform an opera song. He can also sing sentimental songs or funny ones. People see him as a modern version of Bobby Short, but with a classical twist.

Famous Performance Venues

Larry Woodard has performed in many important places. These include the White House and the Metropolitan Opera House. He has also played at Carnegie Hall and with the New York Philharmonic. Other famous spots include the Russian Tea Room and the Algonquin Oak Room. He has even performed at Gracie Mansion, the official home of New York City's mayor.

Collaborations with Top Artists

Larry has worked with many famous singers and musicians. He has played for opera stars like Juan Diego Florez and Anna Netrebko. He also performed with René Pape and Jonas Kaufman. He could even play for them from memory! Larry has also collaborated with Dame Kiri te Kanawa and Martina Arroyo. Other notable artists include Denyce Graves, Christine Ebersole, and Brian Stokes Mitchell.

Larry's Song Documentary

"Larry's Song" is a short documentary film. It was made by Swedish filmmaker Viola Gad. The film shows over 30 years of Larry's performances. These performances took place at a special salon in Manhattan. He played as a solo artist and also accompanied opera singers.

Recordings and Awards

Larry Woodard has released several recordings. These include classical music and cabaret albums. His work has also earned him special awards.

Notable Recordings

Mr. Woodard recorded a CD of spiritual songs. He worked with opera singer Florence Quivar. This album, "Ride On, King Jesus," was very popular. It reached number two on Billboard's classical crossover chart. It stayed in the top ten for six weeks. Larry also recorded rare opera songs with tenor Aristotle Panagako.

Another album, "The Sweetest Sounds of Richard Rodgers," was a success. He recorded it with KT Sullivan. This album won the "MAC" award in 2001. It was named Best Recording by a Duo. Larry also released a solo piano and vocal CD. It is called "Lucky to Be Me." This album features songs by famous composers. These include Irving Berlin and Leonard Bernstein.

Awards and Recognition

Larry Woodard has received awards for his musical achievements.

• 2001 "MAC" award for Best Recording by a Duo for "THE SWEETEST SOUNDS OF RICHARD RODGERS."
• 1993 Backstage Magazine BISTRO Award. This was for his outstanding work as a singer and instrumentalist.

Discography

Here are some of Larry Woodard's recordings:

• 2021 IRVING BERLIN: SWEET AND HOT | Solo Piano/Vocals
• 2003 LUCKY TO BE ME | JMMinc Records | Solo Piano/Vocals
• 2002 WALL TO WALL RICHARD RODGERS | Piano
• 2000 THE SWEETEST SOUNDS OF RICHARD RODGERS | DRG Records | Piano, Vocals, Arrangements
• 1990 RIDE ON, KING JESUS – Spirituals and Black American Music | EMI/Angel | Piano
• 1976 CHERUBINI: ALI BABA | MRF Records | Piano

Television Appearances

Larry Woodard has appeared on many television shows:

• A&E - BREAKFAST WITH THE ARTS, 2006 (piano with bass René Pape)
• CBS – ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT, 1986 (piano with soprano Kathleen Battle)
• ABC – GOOD MORNING AMERICA, 1989 (piano with soprano Kathleen Battle)
• NBC - THE JOAN RIVERS SHOW, 1991 (piano with mezzo-soprano Florence Quivar)
• MY9 – THE JOE FRANKLIN SHOW, 1987 (piano/vocal, interviews)
• CH5 – (WNEW) MIDDAY LIVE with BILL BOGGS, 1983 (interviews)
• NBC - SUNDAY TODAY, 1987 (piano with nuns in "Real Live Sister Act")
• NBC - THE TODAY SHOW, 1992 (piano with soprano Kathleen Battle)

Television Specials and Documentaries

Larry has also been part of special TV programs and documentaries:

• CABARET THIRTEEN, PBS, 1996 (piano with KT Sullivan, vocals)
• HOLIDAY IN NEW YORK, A&E, 2001 (piano with bass René Pape). This special was made after the September 11, 2001, attacks.
• AN IMPRESARIO IN NEW YORK – HERBERT H. BRESLIN, 1985 (solo piano/vocals). This film was about a classical music agent.
• LARRY'S SONG, 2014. This documentary is about Larry Woodard. It shows him accompanying world-class opera singers.
• THE LAST SALON: SISSY STRAUSS, NEW YORK – VIENNA, 2016. This documentary won an award for Best International Documentary Film. Larry performed and was interviewed in it.
• NEW YORK IN SONG, 2002. This show featured various artists. It was made to help victims of the 9/11 attacks.
• ROCKEFELLER CENTER CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY, NBC, 1991 (piano with soprano Kathleen Battle).