If a name was synonymous with a life of vocal music it would be Dwaine Price. Hundreds of people gathered today as well as last evening to celebrate a life lived – yes entwined with music, but more significantly in the lives of people. From high school choirs, barber shop, church music, countless other musical acitivities and private vocal lessons, Dwaine lived and breathed singing. It was in the latter part of Dwaine’s vocation that I had most of my contact when he would bring by his vocal students’ recital music or progress recordings so we could make a finished product for his clients.

I actually received the news of his death from the family of a young Spanish women I referred to Dwaine. Her family thought so highly of him during the time he provided lessons and were obviously more than glad to honor him at his visitation. I am aware of three Tesco Productions’ clients that had worked with Dwaine over the years and they all thought the world of him. Yes they learned technique, style, diction and expression but the over-riding influence always came back to the person himself. Why was this? Well as stated by the preacher this afternoon, Dwaine did everything out of a grateful heart to the One he knew he owed everything – particularly God’s gift of redemption. Penned over 100 years ago and sung today as one of several songs are these words, “I love to tell the story, ’twill be my theme in glory To tell the old, old story of Jesus and His love.” Dwaine, you’re missed by many, but heaven certainly has another ringing voice in its never-ending anthem of praise.

Deb Erdei again found herself spending a number of studio hours on her latest song.  Through friends and family Deb was invited to submit a song for possible use in a movie planning to be shot during the coming year.

“If You Just Believe” is a song about faith to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and watch God do the impossible.  I referred Deb to Chuck Pennington (Panda Productions) to provide arranging and orchestration.  The song was tracked at Warehouse Productions, Inc. in Omaha and then transferred to Tesco Productions for editing and mixing.  Although I had spoken with Tom Ware over the years we had actually never met and it was good to “shop talk” and provide a smooth interface for Deb to record her song.

The mix is virtually done (is this the last version??) and has already been submitted to the movie writer and director for their review and consideration.  Hopefully we can share more details down the road and when we get the final version ready we’ll let you get a sneak preview.  Deb credits her Creator for each opportunity and the songs that keep coming.  May there be many more!

It’s been a very busy month at Tesco Productions and it was kicked off the first Saturday evening by running sound for the 15th annual AquarianFest.  This event is largely spearheaded by Ron Green and has been an Omaha tradition of bringing together some “older” folk singers, rockers, and other music genre players and listeners to spend an evening around live music.  Many of the tunes take you back two or three decades or so when some of us (at least of my age) were much younger.  The event seems to grow in interest each year and Ron has his hands full organizing and maintaining an adequate venue.

Eric & Denise made their annual trek from the Chicago area to reunite the Fishippies and it’s always good to see them again (and splurge at Red Lobster!).  Eric worked at Tesco Productions for a while and they have hosted my wife and I in their home when vacationing.  Seven groups and individuals performed from 7 to midnight + and reminded us that our world still seeks true peace and love.  But alas, there was one casualty.  The main house power amp apparently couldn’t handle all the excitement.  So who needs incense when you can smoke an amp?!

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