Martini's Musings

Everything Old is New Again!

2011-12-08T20:35:00.001-06:00

Hello readers of Martini's Musings. Things have changed so much since 2006 when I began this blog....boy, how they have changed. My regular readers know what I'm referring to, as it's all in these pages....the good, and the bad, over the past 5 years.
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I have a whole new set of readers now, and some of them have requested that I repost a bit of the archived work I first did. Though you can get to it if you know where to look, the requests are from those who aren't so computer-literate, as they say, and they wanted to be able to read my first set of reviews for sweet Palma, and the info about me, and how this blog got started in the first place.

So, here you go - The following is my very first blogging about the fabulous music of dear friend Palma Pascale. She used to so enjoy reading these - she would tell me again and again they were like a mirror for her, reflecting back and reminding her of the reasons she penned the songs in the first place. She told me my words pointed out some of her favorite nuances, as well as just made her feel happy that someone "got it" so deeply. Onward, then:
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2006

Hello Everyone

It is with pleasure that I now post the first set of Reviews for Palma Pascale's The Broken Cup. This particular CD has been a constant source, especially of late, of wonderful inspiration and healing. I present to you the reviews of Palma Pascale'sThe Broken Cup.

Reviews: THE BROKEN CUPBy: Timothy J. San Paolo

THE GENTLE VISITOR

This is the first selection on The Broken Cup. The first six measures are the intro, and they immediately grab the attention of the listener because of the beautiful, gentle method in which the intro is played. This six-bar melody concludes with a luscious chord suspension in the final measure.

These six measures are, in and of themselves, a prayer. This intro gave me a visual of a glorious day at sunrise, and I picture the Lord clearly, standing in silhouette at the edge of a beautiful meadow and, as the sun rises, His arms become outstretched and lifted up towards that beautiful sun.

The music is so lovely that this visual was just automatic! It’s as if the song were written for the opening credits of a movie. The intro, alone, has that “chill factor” for me, and I immediately knew what a wonderful listen had to be in store.

I was NOT disappointed.

The lyrics tell such a true story and it is thoughtfully penned. Palma sings the beginning of this song softly ~ meditatively ~ as if she is quietly explaining the how and what of the story. Many times words are whispered to add exactly the correct emotion ~ to make it prayerful, and powerful.

The message itself is one we so often take for granted, and ofttimes need to be reminded of: He is THERE for us, ALWAYS ~ we only need ASK and when we do, our needs are met without question and without the need to do anything… except ask.

The orchestration chosen for this opening number is simply, outstanding. The melody is so incredibly moving, and when embellished by the graceful movement of the strings, becomes quite stirring.

I love hearing suspended chords…just moves me if they are used correctly…there is one in a particular spot within this song that just knocks me over each time I hear it. That spot is actually a replica of the intro, yet adding the lyrics…well…I find it a bit “haunting” for me because I relate to them so well. They are: “Jesus, I left you standing; I apologize to you…” The suspension and resolution occur on the word “you” where, dynamically, we hear a bit of a swell leading up to and including the word “you” ~ and as the chord resolves, so too does the swell – it’s truly breathtaking!!!

This song is relatively short in length, yet it is fraught with meaning and it sets the tone for this incredible compilation of praise!

Kudos Palma! Well done!!

HEAL ME

As you begin to listen to this wonderful, minor-keyed melody, close your eyes and picture the Tuscan countryside. The voicings of the chords and the instruments chosen, lend themselves to a style that is reminiscent of a European influenced composition. The lone oboe certainly adds to this feeling.

One reason I was immediately drawn to this lovely song is because I so instantly related to its message. I thought to myself while listening to these powerful lyrics how many times I have ended-up having not only been in the same state of mind as described (i.e., lonely, empty, etc.), but also with the same questions (can I be heard? ~ Can I be loved? ~ and most importantly, CAN I BE HEALED???). I related INSTANTLY to this message of every day struggle. YET, we also know our questions are rhetorical and we ask them only out of desperation and to find affirmation as we already know and have the answers, all. “…You are my God ~ You are my healer ~ All earthly cares do I yield…”

The smooth, emotionally-charged rubato melody line and accompanying chords leading to the phrase “all earthly cares do I yield” provide that ultra “chill factor” that simply cannot be denied. This is quite a powerful transition point in the song.

Simply put, the song is strong; it’s enormously moving…. and the chosen orchestration is rich and lush, yet not overdone whatsoever. Palma’s voice is strong, sure and true. With her voice, she is capable of conveying the emotion of the lyric so clearly and strongly that the listener finds themselves COMPLETELY immersed in her story.

This song will truly lift your heart as you experience the exceptional musical composition and the story the lyrics so gently tell. What anawesome creation, this!!!

GET UP ONE MORE TIME
“Oh God, I’ve made a mistake…” begins this 1950’s styled girl-band doo-wop influenced tune, set in what I call a 4/4 time, triplet-feel rock ballad. (For a comparison of the “feel” of the song, think “House of the Rising Sun”).

The song is a gutsy-sounding ballad that, musically, has a rhythmic drive of intensity. It’s somewhat “blue-sy” and coupled with the lyrics makes for a wonderful listen. The lyrics are compelling. Again, these lyrics speak to our every day struggles – that is, it basically says “Oops, I’ve messed-up again, God – how many more times do you think it’ll take until I get it right??

Quite cleverly written by Palma, these lyrics are basically a conversational-type prayer, one that captures the listener’s attention from the very first statement. This just adds another striking dimension to the song.

The song begins with a one-note string line softly working up to a nice level volume, setting the initial mood…and then the piano comes in with a riff that is repeated until the lyrics begin. Once they do, there is still an intimacy of just the piano, vocals and skillfully exiguous drums, which are played by Palma’s best friend from college – Robert “Sticks” Levy. (Robert provides the drums throughout the entire CD). Musically, the build is brilliant. Palma goes, then, from this grouping and gradually adds first that lone string line back, then bass and a fuller “trap” sound. The vocal harmonies parallel the build in the music! Keeping it on the simple side here, allows for dynamics to be more appreciated towards the end. I really love the way Palma purposely holds back on the notes while singing this tune – it’s a technique not easily done – one must have a great feel of just how long to hold-back these notes for effect – and she does it wonderfully, of course. By the time the chorus is sung, the fuller of both instruments and vocals are evident and the listener feels satisfied that they are now fully immersed in the song. Yet, surprise! We’re treated to the sound of a Hammond B3, Leslie, which increases the intensity level by one more prudent notch. As you can hear, the song completes this course, building nicely both vocally and instrumentally until the very end. But Palma isn’t finished building this masterpiece…not quite yet.

First, we have a key change and the modulation serves to add even more intensity yet, but wait…. wait…. wait…MOVE OVER TONY PELUSO – STAND ASIDE DAVID GILMORE! Make room for Palma’sEXCEPTIONAL recording engineer and album co-producer, Fred Guarino, who takes a turn at a bit of lead guitar solo work, here. The solo actually reminds this writer in a huge way of the history-making Peluso solo in Carpenters “Goodbye To Love.” Fred’s execution of this solo is very tasteful and it’s right-on the money. The feel he gives this solo embellishes the song and is the perfect bit of “icing on the cake” so to speak. (Fred Guarino is the President and Owner of Tiki Recording Studios in Glen Cove, Long Island, New York.) This solo is awesome, Fred. Incomparably well done.

The lesson we are reminded of in this song is one of hope and courage. One wonders if the song is simply a sad ballad at the beginning, but it ends-up being a “feel-good” song all the way. I guarantee that as the listener, you will be smiling by the end of the tune and thinking to yourself “how’d she NAIL my thoughts so well?”

BRILLIANT, this!

DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY?

Palma uses a violin with the piano to set the tone for this song…not a sophisticated string, rather the distinct sound more of a “fiddle.” Here, the intro is simple and understated – it almost has an “anxious” feel/sound, to it.

As the lyrics begin, we hear only vocal and piano. This time this conversational piece is between vocalist and listener, yet, give it a close listen because it’s quite introspective as well – the vocalist is asking herself the very questions she poses to us.

Lyrically, this awesome tune is thought provoking, but in a very down-to-earth, most understandable language. Palma does not attempt to be “flowery” or to use big words in her songs. She writes these lyrics with her heart, and that shows, because that’s the place they touch us as one is listening to them. “…Did you talk to Him today? Did you say what’s in your heart? Did you tell Him of the things that are tearing you apart? Did you think to ask His help? Well, you know you really could…He is waiting on the way – did you talk to Him today? Well, you know…you really should…”

The rubato first verse is so lovely and thought provoking – slowing at just the perfect moment in the message as to give the listener an extra bit to consider. It’s chilling, and effective.

As Palma works her way into the bridge of the song, we hear a beautiful, though oh so slight ritard along with a wonderful crescendo of cymbals. With voice doubled here, Palma’s two-part harmony is a lovely embellishment from the verses. As the chorus progresses, we hear an even more pronounced ritard and build of the music to include not only the crescendo of cymbals, but wonderful deep, powerful tympani, bass, strings and other instruments as the chords of the song take a new direction to enhance the remainder of the section even more. It’s another chill factor spot that can bring a tear to this writer’s eyes because the music is packed with emotion and that emotion is easy to recognize and to react to! Well done! Outstanding!

Verse three provides an arpeggio-type piano rhythm that is beautiful and gives the listener the “release”, if you will, needed from such a dynamic experience while listening to the bridge. Palma gets to a “whisper” stage on some of the words in this verse and the result is pure magic…. genius!

It sounds to this writer that a soft oboe is used to add to the drama of the closing few bars which turn out quite nicely. A fantastic song from start to finish!

THE BROKEN CUP

A delightful complete change of pace here as we listen to an oboe along with a classical, unplugged guitar providing the intro and setting the mood to this, the title song. The delicate strumming of the classical guitar as performed by Mark Newman, provides a perfect backdrop for Palma’s voice on this song, either by itself, or with the addition of the oboe and strings, as each are introduced in turn to continue the build of the song. Though the melody is light and flowing, don’t be fooled and take this to mean the song is “fluff” or “filler.” Its message is very profound, and that cannot be denied.

Mark’s guitar, to me, gives the song the slightest flavor of a Spanish-styled number, though that mostly rings true during the solo part rather than throughout the entire piece. A very nice, way different feel, overall, with this beautiful ballad. Haunting melody and lyrics, each. KUDOS! Exceptional.

THE LOVE LETTER

Palma duets here with good friend and world class bel canto tenor, Gary Jerome. This piece at first makes me think of a children’s story – a bible story, perhaps. If you will, both music and lyrics have a sweetness to them – a lightness to them. Palma opens with “…Long time ago on the ocean sand, a letter was found by a lonely man…” We then hear a beautiful flute that makes one think of birds flying over the water – yes, this scene is definitely set for those of us listening – set by the music, itself. As Gary begins to sing along with Palma, he comes in as the “voice of God”. What a perfect match for what I have imagined God would sound like when singing – Gary’s marvelous voice is, of course, very polished – very trained, very studied, quite beautiful and very, very strong.

The feeling changes as the duet begins and the song’s dynamics change, as well. Suddenly, in my mind’s eye, the “lights have gone down and the curtain of the play is opened” and this beautiful song sounding as though from a Broadway production, is being sung. I picture the roles played out in full costume to the story being told. Very dramatic, indeed.

Verse two reverts back to our children’s story sound – Palma’s use of instruments lends to this feeling – this portion is, simply, a more intimate reading…UNTIL the bridge where we are again transported musically and lyrically to the drama of the play. Orchestrally, the verse plays again, but the music does not revert back to the “simpler” sound – rather, the intensity continues to grow throughout this instrumental break and by the time the vocalists resume their singing, it has build dynamically to more of a fever-pitch! First, we have a ritard to build the fervor, then we hear Palma continue to sing the melody, while Gary has begun to do what sounds like an “improvisational” harmony, if you will – it sounds as though he is so wrapped-up in the intensity, ministry and emotion of the song that he has become inspired to sing a contra-melody that beautifully enhances the melody line Palma is singing. It’s quite intense. The song’s story has such a glorious point, too – no matter if there had been only one soul – just ONE, God would still have sent His only son to live and die for him/her. Chilling, don’t you agree? BRAVO!

THE GOD WHO LOVES ME
Ever heard Shania Twain’s CD “Come On Over”? The way in which Palma sings this marvelous upbeat rock/gospel song made me think immediately of Shania and her song interpretation of that lead track,Come On Over.

This song is killer…it rocks in glory to the Lord. The words say it all – “I’m always amazed You’re the God who loves me – loves me like no other.”

Palma belts this one out for us, folks – her voice is so strong and clear and the pitch is, well…..perfect! We have more great guitar on this number, too. Guitarist Mark Newman displays a great deal of taste as he accompanies Palma’s vocals. In fact, it’s Mark’s guitar we hear in the intro – just outstanding, Mark. Completely tasteful and soulful. Thank you for your contribution here.

I have attempted to sing this one, myself. NOT an easy task, trust me when I say tell you that! Palma, however, delivers it beautifully and seemingly, effortlessly.

There are times I hear a country inflection within the song, yet it’s definitely a rock-influenced gem. I love the way
Palma plays 8th note chords on the piano for emphasis and to change things up on the bridge, and then reverts back to that laid-back rock feel, once again.

I enjoy the harmony voicings Palma uses in this song. They’re not three-part chords, rather just intervals that work perfectly – that make a real impact. She told me before, “simpler is more.” I suppose she proves that quite well with this tune.

Let’s not lose sight of the message, here. Though the music and this arrangement is unmistakably outstanding and will bring the listener back time and again just in order to experience the great feelings one gets while listening – the MESSAGE is so important!!! In a nutshell, it is this; “Lord, You have given me so much – everything I have comes from YOU – and I stand amazed that You’re the God who loves ME!” WONDERFUL song, indeed.

LET ME INTRODUCE YOU
This gentle, melodic, rubato composition captures the listener from the get-go. We find ourselves once again the audience of a story being told about the “man” that Jesus was while on earth. The feeling, the emotion that Palma sings with is so “raw” here – it’s incredibly melodic and beautifully orchestrated. She sings softly, almost in a whisper in places, yet in others, an incredible yearning is evident. It is apparent the vocalist longs to “share” with her audience not only what this “man” has done, but what He continues to do for all of mankind. And in particular, for HER, our composer. It seemingly becomes quite a personal message and it is most touching and moving – on many different levels.

So far, this song is completely different in style and arrangement than any of the others have been. In fact, each song to this point has a totally different sound and feel (via the instrumentation chosen and the way the vocals have been sung, both the melody and the harmonies). All of the music is composed, arranged and played by Palma, herself – with the exception of the guitar that Mark Newman contributes, and the drums, played by Robert Levy. Otherwise, Palma uses various computer generated sound samples, played via keyboard. Fred Guarino, as her engineer, provides the various voicings for Palma to choose from (“Fred Tools”, as Palma affectionately refers to them) – Palma tells me she does not actually write out her vocal harmony parts but rather does what comes naturally to her and she “hears” them, then creates the vocal harmonies “as she goes.” What an INCREDIBLE talent this takes, ladies and gentlemen…what a creative, energetic, FOCUSED mind this takes to be able to record in this fashion. BRILLIANT – simply, Brilliant!!!

STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS

What a wonderful tune this is! This one is very different than any of the others on The Broken Cup.

We are first introduced to a wondrous pan flute type of voicing, described by Fred as a “World Ethnic Low Whistle. It’s very sort-of tribal sounding. And then the percussion is introduced – this was a pre-fab drum sample Fred and Palma found in the “deep-dark recesses.” Palma’s voice is doubled as she sings the opening chorus:

“We are standing on the shoulders of the ones who came before us~
True believers in His glory – righteous armies, noble chorus.”

Mostly set in a minor key, as the first verse is introduced, we are treated to lovely strings, piano and mysterious sounding drums – not as heavy as on the chorus, but with various accents added in for a wonderfully surprising effect. And suddenly, a crescendo, like a blossoming flower into a beautiful major chord, accented with harmony as Palma sings the words “round the throne of Jesus Christ.” (Glorious, this). Here, that all-too-familiar “chill factor” comes into play. What a truly lovely change-up, here.

On the second chorus, Palm is joined in singing by a small group of Franciscan Brothers who, coincidentally, happened to already be in the studio on the evening that Palma recorded this song. Taught their parts there on-the-spot, Brother Paulus M.T. Antz, Brother Augustine M. Conner and Rocco Musmeci sang as though they had been singing this song all of their lives – with beauty and with grace. I’m reminded here of monks singing at a “Vespers” service – all together, and of one voice. Palma, meanwhile, adds a touch of harmony here and there, vocally, and the chorus makes quite an impact.

As the song progresses, there are various added touches with strings, piano, and Fred Guarino adds a wonderful bit of guitar to this number, rounding it out nicely, along with drum rhythms which are layered to enhance this beautiful number. It sums with the wonderful addition of occasional “chimes” throughout the last chorus as well as the most regal sounding, ultra-crisp strings.

This composition is unique in its structure, here. It stands alone in its reverent beauty. What an astonishing talent our composer has been gifted with….and she uses the gift, so well.

DON’T BE AFRAID

Ah….one of my very favorites. Simplicity at its finest – rich with texture. Palma makes this song sound simple, though it’s far from that…however, that IS the idea – she even takes the vibrato out of her voice to keep it pure and simple…the pattern of chord changes are so incredibly gorgeous. I’m not sure how, exactly, to describe it – but Palma takes us from this very soft, pure beginning and as she goes through the verse, the non-traditional chord progressions makes one breathe a bit faster – listen a little more closely – smile a little bigger. Then, it repeats….same thing over again – piano, voice and strings – it is to moving that the listener finds themselves wanting to know just what’s coming next…..to me it’s like watching an intense, colorful sunrise – rising – rising – until finally that sun (“son”) finds the perfect spot in the morning sky…and it’s glorious! Majestic! Palma includes “chimes” as we reach the pinnacle of the song, which just adds so much to that “moment.” Incredible.

Suddenly, as the ritard begins – the dynamics begin to soften, and one hears the words “you will not fall” and then we’re back to the simple, pure portion of the song, as it was in the beginning. Palma reduces the vocals to a mere whisper, to give the listener a true feeling of “sweetness”. Of course, the verse builds dynamically and there comes an even grander point in this verse – Palma sings it so clear and strong – the message is so vital…..and suddenly, yet again, we’re back to that stillness……that simplicity…….that pureness of a soft, lovely voice who so awesomely states the main theme of the song….”Don’t Be Afraid.”

Chilling. Awesome. Inspiring. Poignant!!!

THE SEA OF FORGETFULNESS

“All your sins are in the sea of Forgetfulness, where He washes them clean….All your sins are in the sea of Forgiveness, as if they never have been…” What a lovely sentiment, yes? This is a flowing song in 3 / 4 time. Palma has chosen an electric keyboard for this number, written in a minor key. Embellished initially by a soaring flute, strings and drums, the message comes across softly, sweetly, yet powerfully. Palma has a way of doing that in her songs. I’m especially partial to this song as she introduces an accordion sound – which to me gives it that European feel…as if one were sitting at an outside table on a Piazza in Florence, listening to the song being performed. What a “wow” lyric this beauty contains towards the end in referencing forgiveness. Palma gives this lyric that neat little spin – you know the one – it makes the listener “think” a bit as she sings – “…it’s there for the asking – and that’s all He asks of you….come to Him…” All I can say after listening to this one is “WOW.”’

GOD’S HANDS

This is the first composition from the Broken Cup that I chose to record. It just happened to be the first one that really just knocked-me-out when I heard it for the first time. I knew immediately that I wanted to do it at the church where I play, as I loved the bouncy style in which it is done.

This song to me says “old time gospel.” It has a country flare – beginning with the steel guitar sound in the intro, but a rock sound, as well!! Definitely a “gospel” feel to the piano work. Mark Newman’s awesome guitar, rather than emphasizing beats one and three, emphasize beats two and four – pure fun! Then, in the bridge, the bass line starts “walking” and the tune really swings. This walking bass gives this section a definite jazz feel, and that makes a HUGE difference in the overall composition. It’s so tastefully done – such a fun song!

Personally, I’m one who very much enjoys hearing suspended chords, when used correctly, and I’m a big fan of the major 7th chord, as well. Palma likes using the effective suspended chord and the major 7th in her arrangements. The suspensions definitely appear in this song – and they are placed so strategically, and they sound so COOL. I just love listening to this great composition.

Palma builds her verses vocally by adding first one, then two additional harmony parts. Remember, “simpler is better.” She uses this to her best advantage in this song. I love the backing vocals overlapping the main vocals on the phrase “God’s Hands will never let you fall.” Very, very cool!!!

The bridge is excellent …It’s just a couple of lines – but it gives the song perspective. It gives the entire tune a bit of pizzazz, so the song doesn’t just repeat and repeat. It has this wonderful “extra” in it. Plus this helps to build the song, because in the last verse, we have more – more instruments – more voices – more fun.

The reason I gravitated to this song first, however, was NOT because of the music, at least….not entirely. It was the MESSAGE. Such a positive, upbeat message. I just love it…it’s so cleverly penned, and it’s so absolutely true – passages like “How do we fit??…Can’t imagine……….How does He do it??..I can’t fathom….I suppose that He must have the greatest hands of all – God’s Hands will never let you fall…”

Isn’t that a neat way to write that sentiment?

BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO. This one is a kick, and I love it. BRILLIANT, this.

ENOUGH GRACE FOR TODAY

Another in 3 /4 time; and simply a wonderful song. I’ve sung this one as well, and will record it, soon. The message is so strong – and when I sang it, I got comments like “Hey Tim, if I were to call you during the week, would you sing me that song….as a reminder?” and “Thank you for singing that song, because I needed to hear that message today.”

So you can see that lyrically, it’s powerful. Very powerful. The message is one of those that I feel Palma is best at describing. She tells it like it is in most understandable terms – (paraphrased) “Lord, I’m looking ahead and I’m scared to death – I just don’t think I can do it – I look behind at where I’ve been and I regret so much….but then You so gently remind me I am Your child…therefore, please help me to remember I need just Enough Grace For today…”. Indeed.

Musically, the song is another wonderful piece. It has a beautiful melody line, and before you know it, you find yourself singing along… The “hook” is memorable, just as it should be. The harmony parts are so nice – not overdone whatsoever, but just that simple, lovely flow. The music is the same way – the instrumentation is gorgeous – and the modulation at the end really adds a great deal to the overall composition. I like this song very much, as I’m quite partial to the message, and need to remind myself not to ask for a lifetime of grace – as all I really need is “just Enough Grace for Today.”…Thank you to our composer extraordinaire for this wonderful song.

MAKER OF ALL THINGS

Well folks, here is another “girl band” rock song, though I’d call this one straight pop/rock rather than doo-wop. This one is so great. If I had to liken the “sound” of the song, I’d choose a 50’s song called “It’s My Party” by Leslie Gore. Leslie was a great singer, and I’m reminded of both her style, and the type of music she sang with this number.

It’s a classic pop/rock song that gives the listener a lot of bang for the buck, so to speak. Again in this song, Palma gives us a fine vocal that is so strong and clear and just wonderful. Fred Guarino plays guitar, as doesMark Newman, on this one. Lots more questions that Palma is seeking answers to in this song. I love the line “…I heard there was some good news ~ I could sure use some ~ Lately, everything’s bad news ~ think the end’s about to come….”

Now, isn’t that the truth these days? Just turn on any newscast – you’d think it was Armageddon!!! The war in Iraq – the pending war in Iran – the current battle in the Middle East – rapes – murders – missing children, suicide bombers. You name it; it’s happening – daily. It just never ends.

This song is sung with a confidence that takes the listener to a safer place – knowing everything is going to be okay because of the love of God.

Palma uses that 8th note piano riff again in the bridge of this tune – emphasizing what she’s singing – it underscores very important vocals, here…and the point is well made. Then, as the bridge ends, we hear a wonderful “echoing” of vocals.

There is just a bit of overlap in the same words, repeated, and it’s just such an energized, fun listen. I think this song is perfect as the final song of the CD. It’s upbeat – it’s kicking, and it rocks! To me, this one sums up all the parts and makes them whole. BRAVO! KUDOS! BRILLIANT! OUTSTANDING…..all !!!

Writers Notes: I am of the opinion that Fred Guarino is very, very talented, not only as a guitarist, but for the unbelievably great job he’s done as the engineer and co-producer of The Broken Cup. Fred is responsible for recording and putting together all of the pieces Palma composes, sings, plays, etc. I give Palma, the Producer, and Fred, the Co-Producer HIGH PRAISES for the result of this amazing compilation. Add the wonderful drums of Robert “Sticks” Levy, the overwhelmingly beautiful tenor ofGary Jerome and the exciting talent of guitarist Mark Newman, and wow – you’ve got quite a wonderful set of musicians on one CD.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 08, 2006

Let Me Introduce You To...The writer of Martini's Musings:

Hi everyone. My name is Tim! It was about one year ago that I became aware of the magnificent music of Palma Pascale. And, may I say, made a wonderful new friend in the process of discussing her music with her. Palma has kindly answered a multitude of probing questions for me in order to fill me in on "who did what" and "how she did this and that" for all of her songs. We have communicated a great deal over the past year, and I have found Palm not only to be a phenomenal artist; composer, arranger, pianist, vocalist, conductor - I have found her to be a delightful, warm, compassionate, understanding, encouraging and halarious friend. Oofah! as she says - if you want to hear a funny story, Palm can tell them well. Friendships just don't get any better than this, folks. Thank you, Palma, for taking the time to help me understand things from your perspective as a writer and arranger. Thank you for your candor, your humor, your compassion and your encouragement. THANK YOU, TOO FOR THE MUSIC, and, most importantly, thank you for the friendship we now share.

I have been a musician myself for the past 30+ years, and have enjoyed all sorts of music, ranging from Big Bands to Jazz (piano and vocal) to Pop, Rock, Country and Christian. I have a very soft spot in my heart for theCarpenters, and Billy Joel. Oddly, it was through the connection I have as Global Moderator of a wonderful website called Carpenters Online, that I became acquainted with Palma Pascale.

You see, Palma wrote the wonderful song "Love Me for What I Am", that was recorded by Karen and Richard Carpenter and released in 1975 on their incredible album HORIZON. It was due to an interview that Palma granted to the web master of Carpenters Online (COL), Rick Henry, that I was introduced to her "other" magnificent music.

During the course of this year, it has been an honor and pleasure for me to get to know Palm, and to learn about the music that she has written throughout her career. Palma has written at least two musicals, which will be discussed in this blog: WHAT THE HELL, NELL! and Bachelor Buttons. Further, Palma has compiled two CD's of her pop songs, of which there are many. (More on her catalogue of music in the reviews of "In & Out of Love.")

The pop collections are: "In & Out of Love" and "I'll Leave You The Music." Finally, there is the first CD I was introduced to, and the first one I have chosen to review. This is a collection of contemporary Christian music entitled "The Broken Cup". The Broken Cup is an amazing compilation, and one listen is all it takes to be "hooked" on the awesome talent that is Palma Pascale.

I hope to take you on a wonderful journey of Palma's tunes through "the mind of the ear and the heart" of one who has both enjoyed listening to the music, and who has also performed many of the selections Palma has written, so far.

NOTE: All music is copyrighted by Palma Pascale.
Certainly, there are many individuals who are responsible for the making of these outstanding works. First to be mentioned here is Fred Guarino. Read about Fred's background in the "Credits" thread. Fred is the owner and President of TIKI Recording Studios, Glen Cove, Long Island, NY. Fred is the engineer for Palma, and he is the co-producer of her albums. Fred is an amazing individual, and another whom I've had the pleasure and privledge to get to know over the past year. A truly knowledgeable, kind and considerate individual. Fred is also quite a gifted guitarist, and his lead guitar work can be heard on Palma's recordings. Fred takes great, great care in ensuring that these recordings are first-class, all the way. Much care is taken to all aspects of recording, mixing, editing, etc. It's obvious from the final result that these details are an important "piece" that makes up the "whole." Great job here, Fred. Just outstanding.

Please feel free to post your comments here in Martini's Musings. Why is this blog called Martini's Musings? Ah.....we'll save THAT for another time.....

~Martini

ALL I EVER TAUGHT YOU

2011-09-11T17:27:00.001-05:00

"...I will guide you from above, so tread lightly as a dove....and remember....all I ever taught you was to love..."

Palma holding a gift from Fred
A framed copy of her CD "THE BROKEN CUP"

September 11, 2011 -

I sang "All I Ever Taught You" this morning to a crowd of half smiling, half weeping listeners at my church. Palma's story touched the hearts of those listeners this morning, just as it has mine since I first heard she and Frank sing it on their CD's. Here's my version:

LIVE - All I Ever Taught You by Timothy JSP

September 8, 2011

It doesn't seem possible, really, that two years have already gone by since Palma's death. In some respects the wound seems so fresh and new - as if only a few hours, certainly not years, has passed. And in some ways it seems like so very long ago that we said our goodbyes to one another.

September 8, 2009, is a day that is permanently imprinted in my mind. Yet now, so many other days "play" over again in my head....happier days of my memories of time spent one way or another with Palma. Like the second time we talked on the phone and I heard that strong Lawng- Guiland accent so clearly. I was SO surprised, and told her so. She wondered why I was surprised....after all, she" LIVED all hur life, heah. " We laughed and laughed. (The first time we talked was the day she was diagnosed, so it was short, and tentative but I knew all about it via e-mails and instant message conversations).

Palm in the vocal isolation booth at Tiki

Anyway, she asked me why I was so surprised, and I told her that having listened to the spoken introduction of WHAT THE HELL, NELL! I had never heard ANY accent in her voice. NONE!!! So, in her best Yiddish Mother's voice she tells me "OF COURSE that's all spoken without an accent!!! I worked HAUD to say all of that quite distinctly and properly. But when I'm not workin' and I'm talkin' to my friends like we aah just now, I don't wanna have to wurk at it! Oy Vey! "

"Talking with my friends"....that was SO nice to hear. Palm and I were kindred in that way, because it was easy for either of us to talk about how we felt about things - her music, my music, her compositions, my writing. We could say what we felt to each other, and we DID!

Straightening THE BROKEN CUP on
The Wall of Fame - Tiki Recording Studios

Let's see......there was the Sunday
afternoon Palma phoned me in sheer panic thinking that somehow she'd managed (she thought) to have allowed all of her copyrights to expire! It's a memory I smile about now only because I was pleased that she called ME to ask for my assistance. Of course I checked immediately on all of her copyrights, only to discover that they were all quite safe, and for many years yet to come. I phoned her back with this news, telling her she had nothing to worry about. That had been such a relief for her. She told me she could now rest easy; now that she knew her copyrights were safe and all in-tact.

Or how about the time she packed-up a bag full of information in order to "schlepp" into NY City by herself, to check on and determine a legal musical matter or two, and the phone call I got just after she'd boarded the LIRR on her way home. She was completely outdone (and unfortunately, the trip had completely worn her out). Frustrated at the non-results of this huge effort, she was just beside herself at first. She hadn't gotten the answers she had hoped for....but by the time she had to transfer trains for the last leg home, she was feeling much better because we'd begun discussing Bachelor Buttons and the Sondheimesquesness of those compositions. I felt so good about being able to get her mind off of the distressing situation and onto one that perked her right up! Her music! :-)

Fred, Tim and Palm in the kitchen at Tiki

One of my fondest memories, of course, was the day Palm & Fred (Guarino) took a day to show my wife and I the studio where the "magic" happened. Palm asked me during our time at Tiki if I'd record one of her BROKEN CUP selections. (Tiki Recording Studios, www.tikirecording.com ,Glen Cove, NY, is owned by Fred Guarino). Well, THAT was something I'd never anticipated - to record one of her songs - but I guarantee you nothing could have made me happier than to record my favorite composition from THE BROKEN CUP, "Get Up One More Time." Palm didn't have to even ask me - she already knew the track I'd choose and would want to record the most. I felt SO honored that she would ask me to record one of her tunes, using her own performance track.

Tim & Palm in the vocal isolation booth
Tiki Recording Studios

Can you imagine just how nerve-racking that was for me in a way? I mean....this was my first time at Tiki - the very first time I'd actually come face-to-face with either Fred or Palma - and for as much as I admired Palma's talent as a singer/songwriter, and Fred's amazing talent as a master engineer - here I was, in the vocal isolation booth, earphones on and mic in place (the very mic Palm used when recording at Tiki), getting ready to sing in front of them.....and one of her compositions.....recorded by Fred!

Oofah!!! And, THAT's an understatement!! :-)

Frank Rendo's REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS CD

But, here's the deal - both Palm and Fred were SO encouraging to me on that day that my fears of perhaps being inadequate there in the studio with these two quickly faded as they were good, the both of them, at making me feel encouraged and good about what I was doing there. I have since worked more with Fred in the studio there at Tiki, and found him to again be highly encouraging, and helpful. I would have LOVED to have had the opportunity to work again with Palma. :-(

It was truly a magical day that day. I also recorded a part on Frank Rendo's brand new Christmas CD, REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS, and I knew it must have been Palm and Fred's idea for me to join in with others on that song, as Frank and I had never spoken before he e-mailed me and asked me to add my voice! http://www.CDBaby.com/Artist/FrankRendo

Ah yes, it was another very happy moment spent with Palm as Remembering Christmas is one of her own compositions from her musical, WHAT THE HELL, NELL!

Okay...how about when Palm told me how she typically reacted at a healing mass.....then having the opportunity to attend one of them with her, and observing it for myself. (Palma was quite in tune with the Spirit). And, of course, she reacted just as she'd told me in conversation time and again. She was one of a kind, this kind-hearted, loving friend of mine.

Tim & Palm at the piano - Tiki

So, so many of these memories flood back, even as I'm writing tonight. There were so many smiles given me by Palma - what I mean is, she made me smile often, not just in conversation, but every single time I heard any of her work. I would find myself singing merrily along, and smiling from ear to ear. That still happens to this day. So many times when I listen to the body of Palma's work that I possess, I find myself smiling. It remains a thrill on every listen to hear a nuance I hadn't caught before, and again, that happens often. Or, perhaps, because the story she's telling her listeners is so completely "spot-on" as, like I've said many times before, Palma was so tuned-in to human nature...she could write about the human condition in such a way that you, as her listener, just knew that there was true knowledge of the subject matter, and probably because "in part the stories are true and based upon personal experiences" as she told the fans at "Carpenters Online."

No matter what the tunes were based on, they were so "man, she must be talking about me" good! They were so perfectly told that I would undoubtedly find myself smiling during the song at some point, realizing the truths behind the words.

Frank and Palma at Tiki

One fond memory was when Palma discussed Frank Rendo and his talent with me for the first time. I remember it so well, as she was working in the studio with this "Italian guy" she'd told me, and it was during her "I look pregnant I'm so swollen" period. Palm didn't really ever what you would call "gush" over anyone when we discussed some of the talented performers she'd recorded with. She did have some extra fine words for her great friend, the late Pete Stora; she told me Arkawdy was a "wild man who could blow a sax with abandon" and Gary Jerome had a voice like no other.

But when it came to Frank, Palma had a lot to say! She told me during this particular conversation that Frank had an "amazing" voice (as she called it), and when she told me she "hoped she could do a good job for this young Italian man" I could tell he had impressed her, big time! Palma, like me, wanted to do whatever she could do, to heighten and push forward Frank's career. She and I would talk about our plans to do just that for hours at a time. She had plans for him, and was pleased to know how "on-board" I was with her plans.

Tim & Palm laughing at the grand piano
Tiki Recording Studios

I could go on for paragraphs reminiscing about this & that, but you get the idea. There have, this second year, been many fond memories of Palm that have flooded back to me, and it feels much better to be enjoying these memories rather than only thinking about the heartbreaking truth that she is separated from us in such a "final" way.

But I wanted to also mention here that Palma's projects continue, even now. Projects, you ask? Yes, that's right. A new website is receiving final touches before publication at www.palmapascale.com. This was something Palm had really looked forward to in many ways. It just didn't happen in her time with us.

POSTER
Did You Talk To Him Today?

Also, on 10-10-10, her huge vision of a production to be presented to the people of Long Island, with profits going to a ministry that was near and dear to her, "Jesus Alive," took place just as she had planned for it to at the Patchogue Theatre to nearly a full house. For some reason, I have a stumbling block about writing a full story about this fine event, but one day, I will do so. Palm was present in many ways during this long-awaited event. Her original tracks were used for the soloists' to sing to, and her backing vocals were, of course, on those tracks.

Orlando Pena

I spent literally months listening to tracks Fred had made especially for me that had the backing vocal volumes way up with as much separation as he could manage, because Gary Wilson's Jesus Alive Choir would be singing these backing parts on many of the songs used. I did the best I could do to make choral charts for the choir, but had to do it all just from listening, then charting, then listening some more.

Orlando Pena was in charge of the Artistic Direction, Choreography and co-production of the program, while Frank Rendo was the production supervisor. Jackie Carey, another of the dearest people who was a close friend to Palma, and took such great care of her as Palm would tell me often, led the Jesus Alive Dancers.
www.OvationsDance.com

I took one of Palma's THIS MUST BE HEAVEN tracks, (The Golden Rope of Jesus), and orchestrated an arrangement for the 10-10-10 production. Fred had left it as a gorgeous piano/vocal selection on the CD, but Frank wanted an orchestrated version, so I did one, keeping in mind all of the tips Palm had given me about arranging. As I did for the album arrangements, I sent Fred Guarino each separate track, and he mastered and mixed the arrangement along with Palma's original piano track. I didn't know he was going to do that...but that's the sort of generous fellow Fred is. I'm very pleased with the final result, and I think Palma would be okay with it too!

There was well over a years worth of serious work done by many to get this musical program up and running, and in between the grieving process. That part was, indeed, difficult. As my regular readers know, I wish I'd been able to have attended the 10-10-10 show, or even the replay of it on 7-11-11, when it was brought to Bay Shore Assembly in Bay Shore, New York. That wasn't meant to be, but Orlando sent me this message that I will forever hold on to, regarding this show. He said:

   "You were, are and always will be, in my eyes, a part of that production. (The show) was of Miss Palma's last wishes and we were part of it. We were her instruments, soldiers, missionaries, elves and saints in getting the Lord's message through, and Mr. Tim, you were blowing that horn and heard by many hearts!"

   His words here made all the difference for me in not being able to attend. Thanks, OP!
I'm continuing to add to this blog....I'm writing for the website.....and I'm staying in touch with musicians and artists, friends and family alike who help me fill-in-the-blanks of things I didn't get answers to before September 8, 2009.

   Palma's work continues as others record her compositions, and I will continue to tell you stories new and old, and I have some great stuff to talk about in the blogs regarding the two musicals.

   I would like to leave you with some words from Palma, herself. I am excited to share this with you - I came across these videos because the man who shot them happened to read something somewhere that I'd written about her. Thanks Bill, for these wonderful video clips. I'm honored to have them.

Let me set up these clips for you in order for you to really be able to understand why I found them to be such a treasure.

Recall I've mentioned before about Palma's "visit from Jesus" and some of the songs that came from her walk with Him!! The first clip, then, finds Palma walking into a room filled with cancer survivors, where she's supposed to talk and share with them as well as sing to them. The time frame, this occurred for reference, was as Palma was writing the songs from THIS MUST BE HEAVEN....at the time, cancer-free! Some songs were already completed, others would be, soon.

Take particular note about Palma's description of heaven - she tells us she was "too lost to call" and she "didn't remember Him, but He remembered ME." She says she sees a light ("over there shines an orange sun") that was, actually too brilliant and too beautiful for her to look at long because as a "human" just visiting, it shone so incredibly, it was beyond her comprehension.

If you know the songs from THIS MUST BE HEAVEN, you will recognize some of them came from this visit with Jesus, and she talks about what she saw in this video clip. I call it her "testimony about heaven." It's a wonderful piece of footage. I'm so pleased to have it. Now you can also enjoy it.

(NOTE: I am sorry but I have attempted FOR HOURS to add all three video pieces here - the first one simply will not load...... So, below, just before the other links, I will "transcribe" what Palm says. She continues on video 2, and 3. Bill sent it to me as one video, but somehow after a time, I could no longer get sound on it. As it is, the FINAL VIDEO does not track correctly - can't seem to get it fixed and it's sorta weird to watch that Palm's visual doesn't match up to the audio, but I still watch it, anyway. I'm sure happy Bill put it on YouTube. These links are not accessable except through here - it's a restricted video. Thanks again, Bill)!!! Even though you have to see it in three parts, I KNOW you'll be able to enjoy it.

PALMA PASCALE'S 'VISIT WITH JESUS' as transcribed by TSP

"...Last year, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and you know, that's a sneaky, tricky one and it's a little hard to get over that one. But through the prayers of, I don't know how many people but some of you who are in this room were praying for me, all the doctors and the chemo and everything else - it went smooth as could be, and I stand before you today............. cancer free.

The most miraculous thing about my experience was, on the 5th day after my operation I lost it. I was perfectly okay up till then, but on that 5th day, I lost all my courage. I also lost my good name! I was saying to somebody yesterday - when you get a sickness like this, your good name starts to appear on lots of bad reports. CAT scans that have YOUR NAME, and under it it says something terrible - and other reports that have YOUR NAME, and under it it says something terrible.

And on the 5th day when they sent me home from the hospital, instead of being relieved, I was horrified. I WAS HORRIFIED. And, I didn't have any personality left - when you get a sickness like that, it's like everything you ever was is gone! You are, now...CANCER!!! That's all you are, okay?

I lost my courage, and I went back to my house and I was out of my mind. I think it's like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and it happens after you've been so brave - you know, you were up on the rooftop waiting for the helicopters to save you, and they take you to a safe place, and then.........you fall apart!

And when I fell apart, I laid on the bed and I figured well, this is it! I'm about as miserable as I can be - and, I'm NOT done.... You know, you're not done after surgery with cancer...they got other plans. You're gonna have chemo, you're gonna lose your hair, and bla, bla, bla. They talk about it like it's nothing.

And, with that - laying on the bed, I suddenly felt SO GOOD!!! It's as if something came and like took me down the elevator shaft, down to the bottom floor, and I felt so GOOD all of a sudden - I remember thinking - woah! What just happened? I felt mentally well - I felt physically well...and, all of a sudden, to the left side of me, Jesus Christ, Himself, actually appeared. I had my eyes closed, but I wasn't asleep.

He was here, about (shows) "this high" and, I heard Him. He said to me "You couldn't hear Me." And I said to Him, you're right, you're right - I couldn't hear ANYTHING. All I heard was ME - I just heard ME!! And He said, "I was here all along."

And then He went like this with both His hands (shows the people-arms out in front, palms up) and then He said "rest in Me." And I took that to mean just jump in His arms and don't do anything. And I remember thinking, ah......THIS is perfect cause I can't do anything! I can't even move a spoon. I...I...I....I'm LOST!

Then (tentatively) I wanted to ask Him if I was gonna be okay, but Iike I didn't wanna ask Him cause like I didn't know.....so in my mind I was going ... Oh I really wanna ask Him - it's JESUS - I could ask Him.....then would think no, you'd better not ask Him, maybe you're not gonna be alright.

And with that He said, in a very low voice, He said "Don't worry, you're going to be fine." But I kinda doubted - I thought Oh, I made Jesus say that - He felt sorry for me - you know? Really - you know, you'd think I'd be STUNNED that Jesus was standing there, but it was really very normal."

That's the end of the first tape and I've checked the links below - you can get to the other two videos. Enjoy them.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HALC30LKIZE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nlkm6axJXDY

Palma in concert

Palm would want me - us - to begin to heal and to remember her fondly - that sense of humor she possessed was so keen - she made me laugh over and again! Just as I feel she would want, then, I've used my time today to lovingly recall some of my stories and wanted to share them with you all. Please, if you have stories to share, pictures to share, music to share (thank you, Irv for the MP3's you sent my way - I shared them with others, too) then send them to me, please. I'd love to incorporate your memories into my writings.

Thanks to my faithful readers. Thanks to Bill for sharing his video, to Fred, Frank and Orlando, too, for their loving care of Palma's music and vision - time and time, again.
For now, just remember: "...I'll be watching from above, so tread lightly, like a dove....and remember, all I ever taught you was to love..."

Ciao!
~Martini

Photo Credits and special thanks: Frank Rendo, Fred Guarino, Orlando Pena and photos from my own collection. Thanks to Dominick Avento III for his graphic artwork on REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS and DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY?.

2011-09-08T21:41:00.002-05:00

Palma Pascale at St. Paul's in Bethpage

Hello fans, friends and family of Palma.

I'm publishing just a short blog today because it was on this day two long years ago, that we lost this beautiful soul, and I wanted to ensure the day was marked in some fashion, here. I have thought about her a lot, today, as I have every day over the past two years. Regular readers of Martini's Musings know that it was THE BROKEN CUP, Palm's first contemporary Christian CD that captured my heart, and was the catalyst for our strong bond.

I am in the middle of two things I have promised. I am in the middle of writing a new blog for this page that will have some very special elements to it, I hope. We can do new things with Blogger, now, and if it works as I hope it will, you'll be in for a bittersweet treat, believe me. AND, I am putting the finishing touches on a new website for Palma. I will keep you posted on my progress with it!

We miss our dear sister and friend, Palma, yet we know that she stands with the army of those who came before us, along side the son of God in the Heaven she sang so sweetly about, and that her influences continue to encourage the lives and hearts of many right here on earth. Godspeed always, my dear friend.

Stay tuned!

~Martini

2011-08-10T21:01:00.002-05:00

You Know How It Ends by Timothy JSP

I've loaded the song that tells the story for you, just so you could get an idea of how fun this musical is. This song gives you the plot and storyline. Remember, Palma does ALL the parts in this, her conductor's CD.

Enjoy this, and read more, below!

2011-08-07T21:04:00.004-05:00

So, so much to write about!

~(and that's a good thing)~

Hi Readers,

So I kept asking myself over this past week - "which one of these musicals do I write about?" I have written a bit about WHAT THE HELL NELL at various points within this blog, and I've written a bit about Did You Talk To Him Today? as well....There's a third magnificent musical Palm wrote called "Bachelor Buttons" and I will certainly write much about that, too as it is also filled with special, fabulous music......so, "what should I do?" I wondered.....

Palma Pascale

It has been a significant amount of time since I wrote anything about WHAT THE HELL, NELL! and though I had indicated in previous blog posts that I was going to be writing about "Did You Talk To Him Today?" first - I just don't think I'm ready as yet to do that.

I will share with you, however, that I have now seen the production of "Did You Talk To Him Today?" in its entirety. The DVD I have does not want to play past "Oh That I Could," (one of the beautiful musical numbers), on its own....so I tried it in many DVD players, until I found the one it would (mostly) play in all the way to the end. I still missed a few things, but I got the gist, I think.

Poster for 10-10-10 production of
Did You Talk To Him Today

And so, I have now seen the ending too; it was nice. I have plenty of questions before I blog about it that I need to ask either the show's Production Supervisor, or the Creative Director/Choreographer. Alas, everyone's time seems much more limited these days.

Though I'd thought once I'd seen the entire program I would write more about it immediately...after some thought, however, I think I will keep it on the back burner for a time. I'm still not sure how the play took on a life of its own or how the order of the songs came to be, and believe me when I say this; I have so many more questions that, as of this writing, I just don't have answers to. I wouldn't be able to write about the show intelligently with insight, as has been the case from the start. I feel like I'm on the outside, looking in.

For now, then, I have decided to continue to write about something I DO know a lot about, having discussed it with Palma herself, time and again. See, Palm was really proud of this musical, too - and by all rights, she certainly should have been. I would love, someday, to see the actual score, and the "play" that this clever group of 23 songs was built around (Palma having rewritten the play from the original musical called "Gold In The Hills)." Yes, not only did she compose the music, she re-worked the entire spoken play as well. And, as I said, she liked the outcome.

Palma Pascale's Conductor's Version
WHAT THE HELL NELL! CD

When she sent this one to me, only months after we'd first met, its creativity and genius kept our conversations alive time and again. We had a lot of fun and many, many laughs discussing it. And it still grabs me today, just like it did back in 2006. Diving into her work as I have done...well, there's so much to study.

I was listening to this fun, energetic, truly incredible collection of songs again today, and it occurred to me how much more I have to say about it. I believe I stopped writing about NELL in Feburary of '08. That floors me, frankly - that it was so long ago. I'd done one introductory blog, then the February '08 blog about NELL. Seems I got all the way to the third song!!!! :-) See what I mean? There's just so much here that I want to comment on and write about. Palma's musical capabilities, and her storytelling is one of those things I will never be able to fully understand...I mean to say, I know I couldn't do it like this, and for it to come to her as easily as it did still just astounds me. What a creative mind........what a true talent.........it's just......BRILLIANT!!!!

Having said all of this, be aware that I have begun more musing about this magnificent piece of work. It won't be long before I'm back to writing about it in as much detail for you as I can. Stick with me on this fun ride....I believe you'll be glad you did.

All my best,

Martini~

2011-05-31T20:56:00.183-05:00

Introducing.....

Orlando Peña

Hello readers of Martini's Musings. It's been some time since I've done ANY blogging, and this blog, I think, might surprise you a bit.

I will, of course, include information about Palma in this writing - but is really intended to introduce a new and talented friend of mine to you - a gentleman I'm very glad I've had the opportunity to get to know over this past year or so.

Mutual friend, Long Island recording artist Frank Rendo suggested to me that I get to know OrlandoPeña who was to be the Artistic Director & Choreographer for the big Jesus Alive musical extravaganza written by Palma Pascale, to be titled "DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY?" This amazing production was presented, as Palm had planned, at the Patchogue Theatre For The Performing Arts on 10-10-10.

Orlando (on the right/back row) with some of his students

I took Frank's suggestion and began getting to know Orlando little by little. I discovered that he operates his own dance studio called Ovations Dance Academy which is located in Bohemia, NY and it is a very well thought-of hub of creativity. Orlando touches many lives through Ovations, and there will be many more to come.

He founded Ovations Dance Repertory Company in 1997. He studied under incredibly talented industry "icons" such as Anne Reinkin, Randy Skinner, Chet Walker, Robert Balanchine, Joe Lantieri, and Sally Hammond. He brings a very diverse style along with the expert training received under these icons, to his own students.

Orlando has toured the US and Europe performing and choreographing with numerous companies. As a principle dancer for five years with the Windermere Ballet Theatre, touring with National companies of "The Music Man," "Sophisticated Ladies," "On Your Toes," and "A Chorus Line" as well as Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Starlight Express" in Bochum, Germany. His stage and professional experience give him expansive knowledge of choreography and stage professionalism. He has directed and choreographed full Ballets and Musical Theatre productions such as "The Nutcracker Suite," "Anything Goes," "South Pacific," and "The Wizard of Oz" as well as dance concerts in Utah, Colorado, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and New York. He also directed and choreographed "CATS" on Long Island, as well as having worked on Gala events with "Long Island Pulse Magazine."

Orlando Pena

Orlando has appeared in dance concerts and Master Class appearances in Utah, Colorado, New Jersey, Massachusetts and New York. He has been a faculty member at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and was an adjunct Tap and Tap History instructor at Stony Brook University, in New York. He has also been a guest teacher at other universities.

In addition to choreographing and his direction for Ovations Dance Accademy since 1977, as well as Ovations Dance Repertory Company, a non-profit company, his original choreography has won him rave reviews. His students had the privilege of participating in the Vail International Dance Festival in Vail, CO, and The Rock School, The Jeoffrey Ballet Summer Program, Alvin Ailey School and ABT Bermuda. He is a member of the Actors Equity Association, and the Ovations website is www.OvationsDance.com.

Peña has received rave reviews for his dance productions from Newsday for his original choreography and performances. He has appeared in several magazines and newspapers such as The Advance, Senior News, Long Island Latin Magazine and Fire Island Tides.

Broadway on Long Island

I read a description of him recently that stated: "Orlando has been described as a kid who lights up the stage with amazing energy and skill." The Islip Bulletin's critic, John Lee, described Peña's choreography in "Pippen" saying "The dance and the movements are spectacular; what will survive longest, however, is the MEMORY OF THE DANCING!!!"

Bravo, Orlando!!!

Palma Pascale

Orlando and Palma never met.....that is, when Palm was well and writing songs like the ones she wrote that comprise the "playlet" DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY? Knowing Palm as I did, I am absolutely certain and that she and Orlando would have made great, fast friends. I SO wish they could have known one another - how much more magic there could have been, eh?

Flier for Did You Talk To Him Today?

It did not, however, take Orlando any time at all to get to know what an awesome individual in life that Palma was. Now folks, stop to think about this - even in death, Palma and her music is making an impact on the lives of others! I love that! Orlando has told me he could see, by her stories and her masterful way of composition, that she was a "genuine" individual. Yes, Orlando, she certainly was that!!

So, without knowing fully what he was signing on for, in this totally volunteer position, Orlando agreed to choreograph and artistically direct DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY? Orlando and Frank Rendo worked many hours getting this incredible production ready for the huge 10-10-10 performance date, which would be held on the stage of the Patchogue Theatre For The Performing Arts in Patchogue, NY.

Palma's pop CD - In & Out of Love

An aside here, I think...recall me mentioning Orlando's involvement with The Jeoffrey Ballet? Well, Palm, too, was associated with and danced with The Jeoffrey Ballet, later to come to be known as The Morgan-Scott Ballet. Palma was engaged to compose three original songs, and she composed the "Over The Ocean Trilogy." After composing "The Mirror Cracked," "Free of You," and "Over The Ocean," the three songs the trilogy was comprised of, Palma was asked to dance with the company in New York's Bryant Park in 2000. The "Over The Ocean Trilogy" can be found on Palma's pop album "IN & OUT OF LOVE."

Palma was truly quite proud of her association with this wonderful company of talented artists. Something that she had in common with Orlando. That, and their faith in God!

Frank Rendo

As I have been involved "behind the scenes" in the production of DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY? having provided the written choral charts for Gary Wilson and the choir members to learn their various parts from, and by arranging and recording some of the music Palma just hadn't had the time to take care of, and simply because this was Palma's VISION, I was very interested in the day-to-day planning between Orlando and Frank. I used to discuss meetings and design ideas and principle performers and which songs they would be doing, along with trials and worrisome developments on a regular basis with Frank. I learned a lot about Orlando's involvement and ever increasing appreciation for Palma's awesome work. Of course, that endeared him to me fast, as anyone who can so easily recognize the genius of Palma's abundant talents is someone I'm anxious to know and call my friend.

The two of us began a very light correspondence, but what was always clear to me was how much Palm's songs were touching Orlando. Those beautiful melodies, coupled with significant lyrics that tell stories that are deep and meaningful were certainly not escaping this gifted performer. Orlando "got it," something Palm would definitely have appreciated about him - she said to me hundreds of times if she said it once - "TIM, you so GET IT!" She loved it when someone understood more than just the surface beauty of her work. Orlando also "got it."

Orlando Pena

As the date of the show began to be nearer and nearer, and it became just achingly clear that I would NOT be able to get to Long Island to get to see this event I had lived and breathed for the past year alongside Frank Rendo, I began a melancholy that only another artist could truly appreciate, I believe. I was not surprised to find that Orlando "got" that, too. For as busy as he (and Frank) were in putting final touches on the show, bringing all of the pieces together for final rehearsals (that I know were as stressful as they were fulfilling), it was Orlando who came up with an idea that seemed to really help the melancholy and provided me a glimpse into his role in collaboration with Frank and others.

Knowing that he and Frank were having one of the final production meetings coming up, Orlando suggested to me that we surprise Frank and connect via SKYPE - he felt Frank would appreciate his effort to connect us, and it would give Orlando and I a chance to really "meet," if you will, face-to-face. I thought his plan was brilliant. (For those of you who are not familiar, SKYPE is a computer program allowing the users who have cameras to connect, and interact with one another in real time, and be able to not only chat, but view each other as the chat occurs).

On the day we had panned the call, our connection was perfect and I could immediately see the excitement, based out of appreciation and admiration for Palma's work, in every smile and every word from Orlando. He was so excited about this show, knowing Palm truly loved the vision and mission of Long Island's Jesus Alive ministry, and that her songs had been written to praise God in the finest way she knew how.

There was no lack of conversation on either of our parts as we were both enjoying this SKYPE call. Eventually, as we realized that Frank had been delayed, Orlando did something else I was so impressed by - he asked me if I'd like to hear the ideas come to fruition and what had been decided for all of the other important pieces of the show - backdrops, costumes, stage movements, and more - right down to the material choices for the costumes!!

He proceeded to open that production notebook and he walked me through the ENTIRE musical - page by page, song by wonderful song. I saw colors - I saw actual pieces of the backdrops, I saw photos, costumes, fabrics and I knew with which song each of these items correlated. The more he showed me, and with the turn of each page, his excitement grew and matched my own.

Curtain Call, DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY?

So many times we get wrapped-up in the stress of working so hard on something like this production, and we can easily forget how important something like sharing this information might be to someone else - Orlando didn't forget. He knew, I know, how much this would mean to me as he knew of my tremendous fondness and genuine love, not only for Palma, but many of the others - Frank, Jackie Carey (who led the Jesus Alive Dancers). So many people gave their hearts in praise to God with Palma's vision that both Orlando and Frank were carrying out.

I knew for certain how genuine an individual Orlando was with this unselfish giving of his time to walk me through this event he knew was extremely near and dear to my heart. I could never, ever thank him enough both for his amazing insight, as well as his excitement and happiness at walking me through this production. PLUS, thank him for taking such good care of the songs Palma had entrusted to he and Frank to create this production.

Interestingly, I do believe Frank was definitely surprised when he walked into Orlando's office to find that Orlando had arranged a SKYPE conversation with me. I'm not so sure he was "pleasantly" surprised, however. Frank and I spoke for.......say..........2 minutes....as he was most anxious to end that call. Ah well, it's the thought that counts after all, right? Thanks for the thought, Orlando. I'm of the opinion it was a great idea.

The show was, as I fully expected it would be, a HUGE success. It was a lot of hard work and planning on the parts of both Frank and Orlando and the many others who freely gave of their time and talents. Palma would have been more than pleased with the result of the show. God was praised in a mighty way on the evening of 10-10-10; finally, the story she had worked on for such a long time had come to full artistic fruition. From my conversations with both Orlando and Frank, it was an emotional high for both of them for days after - to see an almost full house and to know that the necessary money was raised for the Jesus Alive ministry to help feed the poor throughout the Long Island area was truly an exciting accomplishment.

I have observed the continued work of Orlando Peña since 10-10-10; he has produced and choreographed many shows since that time to include Jungle Book, Les Mis, The Nutcracker Suite, of which Newsday writes "...Ovations Dance Repertory Company goes far east of the East end in its multicultural approach to "The Nutcracker." Performances at the Patchogue Theatre will include a segment of Indian bhangra music and dance." Quoted in the article, Ronnie Douchette, an Ovations board member states: "It exposes our audiences to other styles of music and culture, as well as hopefully bringing in some of the Indian community."

Currently in the works for Ovations Dance Repertory Company is "RENT," "Pinkalicious," "Blues Clues, Live!" and more!!! There's no slowing down for this talented and energetic performer, teacher and mentor.

I shared with Orlando an observation, recently. I checked out his Facebook page around the time of his birthday. I read post upon post upon post of sincere, loving greetings from adults, friends, family and students alike! All of them were wishing him the very best! And....inside those wishes there were HUGE amounts of love for him, expressed over and over again. He has touched so many lives. His art has enriched life after life. These birthday greetings....they told the story in a beautiful way.

I learned during a conversation with Frank back in March that the Jesus Alive ministries, along with Frank & Orlando were going to revive Palma's DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY? This time, it would be presented at Bay Shore Assembly of God Church, Bay Shore, NY. This is the church where, as I understand it, many rehearsals for the 10-10-10 show happened, and it is where Frank regularly leads the singing, as this is his home church.

The proceeds for this show will come back to benefit the students of Ovations Dance Repertory Company, a non-profit organization. That made me very happy when I learned about it.

Martini - AKA Tim San Paolo

What Frank also shared during the aforementioned conversation was that a couple of the principles would be unable to recreate their roles for this July 11th production. It had been Orlando who requested that I come to Long Island and take one of those soloists' spots. As my regular readers, you KNOW how thrilling that offer was to me, don't you? As it happens, once we finally were able to get down to the nuts and bolts of the show - i.e., how long I would need to be in NY for rehearsals, which selection would best suit my voice as a solo, etc. it turned out that I was too close to securing a new job and the timing would not have worked for anyone. Besides that, having been without a job for some 15 months at that point, any extra dollars were already earmarked, one way or another.

Center Stage - Frank Rendo & Orlando Pena

Though I am unable to attend, and to be an actual part of Palma's wonderful story (AGAIN!) alongside Frank, Father Charles and Laurie Mangano, Orlando, Jackie Carey and so many others whom I've been grateful to have met along the way....I WILL NEVER FORGET that Orlando asked me to be a part of this show, not in a behind the scenes way, but on stage, with the "big kids" as it were!

It doesn't matter that I won't be there - it doesn't matter that there may not be another opportunity for me to participate in this specific show - none of that matters. What DOES matter to me is that someone really "got it" enough to know how extraordinarily important it would have been to me to become a part of this production of Palm's unmatchable music. I will forever be grateful to Orlando for his enthusiasm, and his confidence in my ability to get the job done - and for sticking his neck out to ask Frank to speak to me about it. Interestingly....Orlando had never even heard me sing, at that point. Remember this old cliche' - "...actions speak louder than words...?" This "action" was one single act of generosity that spoke VOLUMES to me. Of course I wish I'd been able to go and be on that stage performing Palma's music; nevertheless, I will always, humbly recall this sincere act of kindness as it meant so much to me. I told you.....he really "gets" it!!

Orlando with some of his students

Great thanks, too, to Frank Rendo for the invitation to stay with him while in NY. Much appreciated, Frank.

I know Palm is happy all of this is happening. I just wish she and Orlando could have met - they would have been fans of each other, and no doubt good, good friends. I can easily envision a brilliant collaboration between these three talents; Palma, Frank and Orlando. Much creativity comes from each of them and I would guess only better and better art would have come from a grouping like these three.

As you can tell, I've just scratched the surface when discussing Orlando Peña and his talent, his studio & the children who frequent it, as well as his productions. There is more to come and I look forward to writing more about him and his creative approach to dance and song.

For now though, it's time to sign off for me. I have begun to pen a new blog about Palma's brilliant musical, BACHELOR BUTTONS which will be posted relatively soon. Also, don't forget to check out the blog dedicated to good friend Frank Rendo at www.RamblingsRegardingRendo.blogspot.com.

So from me, and I'm sure I can speak here for Palma Pascale. To you, Orlando - thank you for your dedication to the performing arts through your love for, and tremendous talent in the world of dance. You are making a difference in the lives of many!

I wish you all the very best!
~Martini

Photographs courtesy of Orlando Pena, Frank Rendo, Sue Rosen, Tim San Paolo. Cover art for "In & Out of Love" by Dominick Avento III. Cover art for "This Must Be Heaven" by "Cousin" Lil Greiner.

2010-12-07T20:18:00.006-06:00

~A Christmas Message from Palma~

~Palma at Christmas - Bay Shore Assembly of God~

Hi Friends~

It was fortuitous, but I was looking through some of my prior writings about Palma, doing a bit of research, when I ran across this poem....I believe Palm must have sent it to me as it was in the papers of my writings specifically for her - I seem to recall she liked it. [This is NOT something Palm composed - only a poem that she liked, and when I found it, I was taken aback, as you can imagine]. Maybe she was thinking of writing another Christmas song with this as influence, I don't know for certain. I couldn't believe it as I began reading it, though. I think this is her way of letting us know that she is where she wanted to be - with God. Enjoy what she had to say~

Christmas in Heaven

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world belowWith tiny lights like heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow.I want you to feel the joy, please wipe away that tear - For I am spending Christmas in Heaven with God this year.I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,but the sounds of music can't compare with the Christmas choir here!I have no words to tell you of the joy their voices bring.For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing.I KNOW HOW MUCH YOU MISS ME - I SEE THE GRIEF INSIDE YOUR HEART-BUT, I AM NOT SO FAR AWAY - WE REALLY AREN'T APART!!!So please be happy for me now, you know I hold you so dear,and be glad I'm spending Christmas in Heaven with God this year.I've sent you a special gift, from my new home up above.It is the gift of MEMORIES of our eternal love.Remember friends that love is THE most precious gift of all.Only love will keep on standing ~ and all else will fall.Please love and keep one another, as God's asked you to do,for I can't count the blessings that love will bring to you. AND HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS - PLEASE WIPE AWAY THAT TEAR!!I'm spending Christmas in heaven with God this year.

And with that, I'm certain Palm would have sent Christmas love to each of us as she is eternally happy spending Christmas in Heaven with God.

God bless each of you during this beautiful Christmas season, and always,
~Martini

Palma at at Jesus Alive event, Bay Shore Assembly of God

Thanks to Frank Rendo for photos from his collection.

2010-10-20T10:44:00.001-05:00

DVD'S OF THE JESUS ALIVE PRODUCTION, "DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY?" WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON!!!

Hello Everyone~

Fresh off the presses - the order form for Palma Pascale's DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY? that was presented at the Patchogue Theatre For Fhe Performing Arts on 10/10/10 was videotaped in high definition. It is being prepared for DVD release.

If you would like to purchase this item, they will be available for $20.00 per disc. The shipping and handling charge will be $5 which is good for up to 5 DVD orders to the same address in the same package.

Every attempt will be made to have this item available by Christmas 2010. It will make a great gift for someone who did not attend the performance, and will also make a great memory for those that did.

The proceeds from this sale will also go to Jesus Alive's ongoing fundraising vision to continue to help feed the hungry on Long Island.

PLEASE COPY THE FORM AND SEND IT TO:

Jesus Alive, PO Box 78, East Islip, NY 11730

Make checks payable to JESUS ALIVE.

Special thanks to Fred Guarino of Tiki Recording Studios, Glen Cove, NY, for his generosity in allowing this show to be filmed, based on copyright restrictions, etc. Big Thanks, Fred.

Did YOU talk to Him today?

~Martini

2010-10-18T15:42:00.014-05:00

AND THE PRODUCTION WAS A SMASHING SUCCESS!

A big hello to all of my readers~

The show, Did You Talk To Him Today? has now been performed - the artists have shared their talents with the world - Jesus Christ was praised in a very special way - money was raised for the hungry of Long Island, NY, and Palma's vision for this special playet was finally realized.

Fr. Charles Mangano & Frank Rendo

Samantha Tetro summed it up best: "...To God Be The Glory!..." Amen, Samantha. Well said.

My plan, to be able to inform you at least a bit about the actual production, is to gather as much information about the show as I can, and I will then attempt to piece it together here. I have spoken to Frank Rendo only once about the show since it was performed on 10-10-10, and I have some perspective from him from our conversation, however, the proof in the pudding comes in a letter Frank recently penned to "All those involved with "Did You Talk To Him Today?" In it he states: "...I have played the 10-10-10 experience over in my head and in my heart, and my being is overflowing with gratitude. I am still flying high..."

Frank's heartfelt note really spoke to those people he shared the stage with on that night - those who performed with him - the cast and the principal's - and to Orlando Pena, Gary Wilson and Mary Veath to whom he states: "...Your integrity and character to finish the task at hand and do it most excellently couldn't have been more pleasing to the audience that night, as they stood up on their feet by the time the last note was sung in "Oh, Open Heaven" and remained there till the curtain came down after we took our final bows..."

Oh, Open Heaven & Curtain Call
He goes on: "...This vision she (Palma) imparted to me and in turn tried my best to impart to our beyond capable artistic director/choreographer, Orlando Pena, was realized that night after many, many months of putting the show together conceptually with him, using Palma's notes and securing her requests for certain principal singers to be in place. The soloists, singers, actors and dancers prepared their parts expertly. Gary Wilson and Mary Veath came through with their preparations for the adult and children's choruses, swimmingly. Orlando's team of creative people was busy like elves 'behind the scenes' in the North Pole getting all the details happening for the show..."

Center Stage/Frank Rendo & Orlando Pena

To the volunteers who helped, Frank added: "...So many more volunteers doing so many things around the clock were also invaluable in assisting us...you know who you are!..."

He concludes: "...I couldn't have imagined it more than it was ...splendid! It was an honor to share the stage with you..."

Frank has shared with me his elation that the production was so well attended - that the show was executed beautifully - that all those in the play rose to the occasion and that there were many hugs and tears among all of the cast once the final curtain had fallen. He, too, was quite pleased with the line-up Palma had hand picked for this production, having worked with many of them prior in various other venues.

Realize, though, that any information I impart to you is strictly second-hand. I have ordered the DVD, but honestly, just from the video-clip I have been sent and have attempted to view (along with photos by Sue Rosen....thank you so much, Sue for sharing)...well, let's just say I think it will be some time before I can sit and view the DVD of the production.

Frank Rendo & Palma Pascale

I was unable to attend - getting to Long Island just wasn't in the cards for me. But I knew this production would be MORE than amazing. I knew it because I know this much for certain about Frank Rendo - he would have done anything he could have or needed to, in order to fulfill his promise to Palma and have this show be as successful as it could possibly be, based solely on what he knew of her vision for it.

Honestly, any first-hand knowledge of any of this big production, I have shared with you already in my last blog. I would be more adept at writing blindly to you about Palma's compositions (that we never got to discuss) than I do in writing about this event. Sadly, I feel completely removed from this entire project; the role I played in helping with the actual show was, after all, long before the show came to life, though it was twofold: it was this show that Frank and I would discuss when we spoke on the phone, almost every conversation for a year and a half. Yet, at this point, aside from those months of conversations about the show with Frank, I feel so removed from the actual production. So, I really will have to rely on the views of others for anything substantial that I can impart to you, but as I said, I'll do my best when the time comes.

Curtain Call

One other thing I do know for certain - I have not seen Frank so elated as he is yet, today, for over 18 months. I'm glad he is so pleased with the production, and I feel pretty certain in saying that all of the time he spent with those people who he mentions, that worked so hard (Orlando, Gary, Mary, and others) and all of those who he shared that stage with, forever have a piece of his heart now, and that this will be one memory he will carry with him, for the rest of his days.

More, as I know it. For now, suffice to say, it was brilliant!

So long~
~Martini

Photos courtesy of Sue Rosen and Frank Rendo

2010-09-27T21:15:00.008-05:00

DID YOU TALK TO HIM TODAY?

A musical production based on the original

music & lyrics of

Palma Pascale

It seemed so far away back in 2007 when Palm first mentioned the event slated for 10-10-10 she had been working diligently on for the Jesus Alive ministry of Long Island, NY. Palma was excited about what could come out of this "production" as she called it - a big event on a catchy date - 10-10-10 created to help the Jesus Alive ministry in several ways: monetarily, so they could continue to and perhaps expand the current ministry, and recognition-wise, to bring the important work of Jesus Alive to the fore, thinking that if more and more people knew of the wonderful works Jesus Alive was doing all over LI, perhaps they might come on board, themselves.

Jesus Alive was founded in 1992 by Gus and Gloria Schuck to help other Long Island ministries carry on their work, bringing hope and healing to people in need. Jesus Alive events that occur throughout the year raise funds that enable those on the "front lines" to serve even better. They help keep the lights on, the pantries filled, and the soup hot for many grassroots ministries from the East end of Long Island to New York City.

The emotional support, words of encouragement and prayer given to the volunteers who work tirelessly to make life a little better for their neighbors in distress is, in a word, priceless.

The hands and feet of Jesus, bringing the good news of God's love in practical and positive ways.....THAT'S Jesus Alive.

Palma Pascale

"Did You Talk To Him Today?" is a musical production that is based upon Palma Pascale's original music. It will be performed at the Patchogue Theatre For The Performing Arts on 10-10-10. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and the curtain will rise promptly at 7:30 p.m.

"Did You Talk To Him Today?" will be an evening of song & dance that is sure to open and fill your hearts, and perhaps bring a tear or two to your eyes.

I have told this story before, but it bears repeating, here. Palma was in the hospital early in 2009, and instead of complaining about it, she was writing new music for this show, as well as her new CD which she had been working on, THIS MUST BE HEAVEN.

One day she phoned me, quite excited about the newest song she had just written - right there in her hospital bed. She was so excited, in fact, that she sang it to me over the phone - this beautiful voice, so clear and strong, singing this song to me that she had only just written, without benefit of piano or any other backing music, right over the phone lines.

I recall listening to and simply getting lost in this absolutely breathtaking song. The lyrics were written as if sung by God to man, reminding us all that "All I Ever Taught You" was to love. Palm went on, talking about the importance of this message. She told me it just flowed from her pen when writing the lyrics and she knew it was a message God wanted her to share with others. Palm knew this song was an important one. I wonder, though, if she would have ever guessed just how important the song & its message has become.

It's such a moving, powerful song. The melody is just lovely & the final recorded song, found on her last Christian CD, THIS MUST BE HEAVEN is not fussy or overdone, but just a simple, flowing melody to get the story across to her listeners as best she could.

Performing "All I Ever Taught You" for the big event will be the Production Supervisor of "Did You Talk To Him Today?" Frank Rendo. http://www.CDBaby.com/Artist/FrankRendo http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/frank-rendo/id271037974
http://www.MySpace.com/FrankRendoMusic
http://www.ShoutLife.com/FrankRendo

Frank Rendo

Frank is a well known Long Island minister of music. He has a large fan-base, and he performs often at various venues on the Island. A favorite spot which provides Frank a regular, monthly stage for his ministry is Samantha's Li'l Bit of Heaven in East Northport. Owned and operated by the lovely Samantha Tetro, Frank performs there on the first Saturday night of each month. www.samanthaslilbitofheaven.org.

Frank and I have known each other since October of 2007, some three years, now. He invited me to sing on one of his CD's, REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS, and I have done publicity for Frank since that time. The blog I write about this tremendous artist can be found at www.RamblingsRegardingRENDO.blogspot.com. Frank is a good friend, a kind man, a generous spirit, a gentle soul. He is extraordinarily talented - his voice is a true gift from God. Frank has been ministering since his conversion in May of 1983. After he graduated from Oral Roberts University with a BA in Theology, where he was chaplain and praise & worship leader, he became the music director for the music group Front Line, which toured the USA, France, Germany, Holland and Switzerland. Next, he was involved with a trio called Epiphany, whose concert focus was to bring renewal to mainline denominations. They toured the USA, Denmark & Israel. He has since continued his solo ministry, and has recorded five (5) CD's to date: HOW CAN YOU SAY NO TO THIS MAN?, SHINE, and 3 CD's under the musical direction of Palma Pascale--- the acclaimed REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS; plus INSPIRED~SONGS FROM BROADWAY AND FILM~, and DELIVER ME. Frank always offers his audiences a heartfelt and sincere musical presentation with powerful messages of hope, strength, comfort and inspiration that are conveyed through every note he sings. Frank has been associated with the Jesus Alive ministry for the past 18 years.

Through this last year, since the tragic death of our mutual, irreplaceable friend and colleague, Palma Pascale, Frank and I have had many long conversations about this production, and Palma's music, in general. Frank made a promise to fulfill Palma's vision for this production - a task that at one time seemed monumental & daunting. I could understand why - Palma had big plans, and Frank has most successfully executed those plans, just as he promised. It wasn't easy - there have been innumerable challenges and struggles along the way, yet....he persevered. He had many good friends, like me, who continued to support him in any way we could - even if it was only in conversation or encouragement that all of this was in Divine Order, and that this production would manifest into a most meaningful show that will be well attended, and will fulfill Palma's dream of praising God and providing money for the people in need on Long Island through the efforts of Jesus Alive.

Because first and foremost, Palma's intention for this show was to give praise and honor to Jesus Christ, our Lord. For as much as Palma will be remembered for this wonderful production, and her music will carry on long after this show has been performed, it was not penned to bring recognition to her....she only hoped to bring glory and honor to God through the music and the messages. She hoped, as I mentioned, to bring the work of Jesus Alive to the attention of many, that Jesus Alive might expand and grow in its most important ministry to help feed the poor on Long Island.

Orlando Pena

Frank was really blessed by the collaboration of this next fellow, the Artistic Director, Choreographer and Co-producer, Orlando Pena. Orlando is the artistic director of Ovations Dance Academy Inc., and founder of OVATIONS DANCE REPERTORY COMPANY, a non-profit organization, in 1992.

Orlando has toured the US and Europe, performing and choreographing with numerous companies. As a principle dancer for five years with the Windermere Theatre, he has toured with National companies of The Music Man, Sophisticated Ladies, On Your Toes and A Chorus Line, as well as Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber's Starlight Express in Bochum, Germany. He has directed and choreographed full musical theatre productions of Anything Goes, South Pacific, The Wizard of Oz and CATS on Long Island, and has worked on Gala events with Long Island Pulse Magazine. Orlando has been on the faculty at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and was an adjunct Tap and Tap History Instructor at Stony Brook University. His original choreography has won him rave reviews. He is a member of the Actor's Equity Association. His website: www.OvationsDance.com.

Choral Music is under the direction of Gary Wilson. Gary has been the choir director of the Jesus Alive Choir since 2006. Gary has done an outstanding job in his role.

Also featured will be: Maureen Arasmo, Al Barbarino, Dona Cabone, Andy Cooney, Patrizia DiLorenzo, Yulanda K. Jones, The Glorification Singers, The Jesus Alive Choir, Fr. Charles & Laurie Mangano, Rev. Deborah Mitchell, Rev. Karen Orlando, Jennifer Ortiz, Paul Paoli, Frank Rendo & Emily Vaeth, along with the Ovations Dance Repertory Company and the Jesus Alive Dancers.

Some of the magnificent compositions written by talented Palma Pascale to be featured this night include: Standing on the Shoulders, The Golden Rope of Jesus, Let Go, Let God, A Room in My Heart, You Couldn't Mean Me, All I Ever Taught You, and A Better Plan. There are 21 selections in all, from Palma's two Christian CD's, THE BROKEN CUP & THIS MUST BE HEAVEN.

Tickets are going fast, yet some remain available at the present time. There are several ways to obtain tickets:

By Phone: 1-877-77CLICK
Online: www.PatchogueTheatre.com
Box Office: 71 East Main Street, Patchogue, NY

Fred Guarino

Besides the featured artists, the dancers and choir members, of which there are many, there was a variety of other people who helped a great deal and worked very hard to ensure Palma's vision came to fruition. People like my sweet friend, Jackie Carey, who is the Captain of the Jesus Alive Dancers, who spent many hours helping Frank in various ways. Thank you Jackie for your unwavering support, and positive, go-forward attitude - Fred Guarino of Tiki Recording Studios in Glen Cove, NY, who was at the ready to assist Frank in any way possible - Fred's generosity to Frank and the Jesus Alive Organization has been abundant. Frank was supported by others - Domineck Avento III, Jim DeMar, Laurie Mangano, Diana Petit, Rev. Ruth Dunn Widemann, Carol Wilson and yes, yours truly, and more. It takes a village, after all! Thank you, one and all, for your work and dedication to this project and to your friend, Frank Rendo. He needed, and certainly appreciated your support.....I know.

Palma Pascale & Jackie Carey

It is with a heavy heart that I've prepared this blog today, as I had hoped to be able to get to Long Island and be there to celebrate this accomplishment with Frank and Orlando, Jackie, Fred and all the others I've yet to meet, and to watch the magnificent performances of the artists and cast. Praising God by way of this musical event was so incredibly important to Palma, and her vision for this wonderful production will soon become reality.

It is through the generosity of Fred Guarino that permission has been granted to have the show professionally videotaped for sale so that people may be able to enjoy it far past this one night. Thanks, Fred, for allowing this to happen. Though I won't be able to attend this gala event in person, I can now, at least, get to see the vision realized with my own eyes.

Since her death on September 8, 2009, from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, it has been my desire to help with any and all of the unfinished pieces of Palma's musical life. There were two records to be completed, and two tribute shows to be done throughout this year, besides this production of Did You Talk To Him Today? It was Fred Guarino who afforded me the opportunity to help finish Palm's CD, THIS MUST BE HEAVEN, and I have continued to work with both Fred and Frank on projects that will be ongoing throughout the years. It has truly been a pleasure to me to be involved in some way.

Frank Rendo, Tim San Paolo, Fred Guarino

Personally, I want to thank Fred for all he has done with and for Palm and her music. Your knowledge of Palm's work, and your guidance to her in her recording of it, is to be admired. Thank you, Fred. To Jackie Carey for your countless hours of work, and your valuable help with many of Palma's projects; for your continued encouragement to Frank, and others, and for your powerfully strong faith. To Gary Wilson, thank you for your direction of the Jesus Alive Choir and your collaboration with Frank Rendo on this specific project - I know you, too, have spent countless hours working with the choir...besides, anyone who was able to make heads or tails out of the choral charts I sent knows how to work magic, I'm sure! To Orlando Pena, though we have never met face-to-face, I am so grateful to you for your hard work and the long hours of prep time, meeting time, work time to ensure the artistic direction was carried-out to the best of everyone's abilities, whether or not they were truly "dancers." You continued to instruct and lead everyone, and your efforts in supporting Frank were significant. Thank you, Orlando.

Tim San Paolo & Frank Rendo

Finally, as they say, last but certainly not least, I want to express my most sincere appreciation to my friend, Frank Rendo, for never taking "no" or "it can't be done" as a final answer to any part of this vision Palma shared with him. If it was something that Palm wanted, though personally painful at times, Frank persevered to ensure Palm's entire vision was carried-out in the best way he knew how. Thank you, Frank...this past year has never been without its challenges - trying to find time to grieve the loss of such a wonderful friend, and at the same time getting her Worship album completed and made available to the public, working with Fred and I on completing THIS MUST BE HEAVEN, performing in both, and completely planning and executing the second tribute concert for Palm, and taking on the supervising production of this incredible production of Did You Talk To Him Today? I feel certain that nothing you worked so hard on and fought so diligently for will be for naught. And everyone who sees the production will benefit in multiple ways: Praising God, at the same time, increasing awareness of those doing God's work right there on Long Island - it's the wish Palma had that has now come to life! It couldn't have happened without your time, your perseverance, your understanding of theatre productions, and most of all, your willingness to be certain the show fulfilled Palma's dream of what it should be, and what it needed to do! You've given immensely of yourself. Thank you for that, because I do know how special this piece of the puzzle was to Palma - a piece that now fits perfectly in the overall design of her life.....thanks to you!

To everyone who is participating in the actual show, as well as everyone involved "behind the scenes" I send a piece of my heart. Without each one of you, this presentation wouldn't be possible. I knew, as did Frank, just how important this production was to our dear, dear friend Palma Pascale, and each of you has had a part in making her dream become a reality. I can't thank you enough.

Stay tuned and check in often here at Martini's Musings. I will be attempting to redesign Palm's current website just after the first of the year, and will tie the blog even closer to the new website so everyone can know the exquisite music of Long Island's musical treasure......Palma Pascale.

Oh, and by the way, "Did You Talk To Him today? Well, you know.....you really should!"

~Martini

2010-09-07T22:49:00.004-05:00

In Memory

Palma A. Pascale

1950 ~ 2009

"One Year Later"

Dedicated to "Cousin" Lil Greiner

Palma Pascale

My cell phone was on my nightstand where it had been every night for the previous few nights. It rang right at 5:30 am. the morning of September 8, 2009. I was certain I knew who was calling at that hour, and why. I so hoped I was wrong, but I was sure it was Frank Rendo...and it was. And the news he delivered was that our Palma had passed away about 1/2 hour prior. Frank told me he was holding Palma's hand when she died. I immediately got a visual of that, and it has remained with me ever since.

We didn't need to talk further, and anyway, neither of us could.

That was a day I will not soon forget. I was expecting this call from Frank - knew it was coming - but it didn't make hearing the news any easier or any less painful. It sort of takes your breath away, news like this, as prepared for it as you might be.

I knew I had a task to perform that day, and I could not put it off. There were people depending on me, just as I so depended on Frank, to deliver this news.

The community at what was first known as "Carpenters Online," one of the largest fansites on the Internet all about any and everything "Carpenters" had been depending on me for news, good or bad, regarding Palma's condition, and I tried to keep them updated as much as possible. See, the website had a forum attached to it, which remains active even today, at what is now known as "Karen and Richard Carpenter Avenue." The former website and the forum are both run by Rick Henry of Southern California. It was Rick who tracked Palma down in order to interview her for the website, in 2005. That interview is reprinted in full within this blog, thanks to permission of Rick Henry.

Palma Pascale
In the vocal isolation booth
Tiki Recording Studios

The forum members loved Palma, each in their own way. Palma was eager to embrace this community of followers and she did what no other celebrity had done, she told her story of how she happened to connect with and subsequently write for the biggest pop duo of the 1970's - the Carpenters. Palma lovingly included as many details as was possible. Plus, Palma remained a rather active member of the forum, answering questions and enjoying new cyber friendships. The members fell in love with the little lady composer from New York.

I recall one forum member who Palm conversed with often found themselves on Long Island, close to Palma's home shortly after her cancer diagnosis, which she shared with each of us, as well, and he contacted me to see if I thought it would okay to call Palma and say hello. Ha - anyones guess, but I assured him that she would kindly let him know if the time WASN'T right. Dave did call her, and they spoke for over an hour. I was later told by both parties how nice of a conversation it was, and how much each of them enjoyed the other.

Some of the detail Palm shared with us included the introduction of a best friend - her cousin, Lil (Greiner) who quickly became known as "Cousin Lil" to us. I am dedicating this blog to Cousin Lil, in fact. I know that she misses Palma terribly, and Palm told me time and again that she and "Cousin Lil" were very close....more like sisters than cousins, and certainly very close friends.

It was "Cousin Lil" who first bought the LP "HORIZON", and called Palm to tell her she'd purchased it, and it had Palm's song on it. Palm rushed to her home, and ending up at one of Lil's neighbor's home, they listened together the first time Palma ever heard her song as recorded by Karen and Richard Carpenter. Then, Palma tells the story she left in a hurry, and TOOK THE LP WITH HER! Poor "Cousin Lil" never did get her LP back, as I understood it. Oh, that Palma! Oofah!

It was "Cousin Lil" who did the graphic design of three of Palma's CD's - THE BROKEN CUP, I'LL LEAVE YOU THE MUSIC, and THIS MUST BE HEAVEN. Each of these designs are beautifully done and executed. Lil, thank you for letting us share a bit of the musical Palma with you, and all the Pascale family.

So, because of Rick Henry's inclusion of Palma's four-part interview, I ordered THE BROKEN CUP and the rest, as they say, is history - all well documented within the 45 posts that comprise this blog I write for Palma.

My task this day, then, was to do as I had been doing for close to two years: I needed to write a post which would inform these friends that Palma had died. I needed to try and help them understand while I, myself, was filled with questions. Palm always loved it that I "got it" so often where she and her music and lyrics were concerned....but not this time. I don't get why it had to be her, at all. It didn't make any sense to me - still doesn't.

Nevertheless, I did notify these forum members - some personally, and others as a group via the forum. Some of the replies to that posting were incredibly touching and poignant. It wasn't just difficult for me to digest this - everyone seemed to have a bit of difficulty comprehending Palma's death. It just didn't seem right.

That afternoon, I got a call from Fred Guarino. Not certain whether or not I'd been informed, he wanted to be sure I knew about Palma, and as difficult as that call was to make, he did so...and I was so glad to have the opportunity to just touch base with him. Frank, Fred and I had been keeping this "vigil" together - these two men were so kind to me, keeping me as "in the loop" as anyone could be. Fred and Palm worked very closely together for more than 25 years. Palm was a familiar face around Tiki Recording Studios - not only because she recorded her own material there, but because of all the others that had Palma work on their recordings, as well. So this was the end of a fantastic professional working relationship for Fred, as well as a tragic personal loss, as the two of them were close friends, too. I know it was a tough thing for Fred to make that call, and I'll never forget that he did it. I appreciate you a lot, Fred. Thank you.

Palma Pascale & Fred Guarino

There was a lot to think about that I took care of for Palm, and things I needed to do - there was the website - Palma's Shoutlife Page and MySpace page - Facebook pages would need attention, too. My blog (this one) would need to be updated and at some point in a discussion with Frank Rendo, I decided to write an article for the newspaper Newsday, regarding Palma. I kept looking for an obituary as the days went past, and nothing ever appeared. So the article I'd written could be used as an obit, yet Newsday never responded to requests by me, or from Frank.

Palma Pascale & Herb Magtoto

Palma, Frank and Fred met a man who is now a mutual friend, Mr. Herb Magtoto, at a meet and greet for Martin Nievera in New York shortly after I had finally tracked Martin down, because Palm wanted to meet this man who recorded a live YouTube Video (beautifully, I might add) of LOVE ME FOR WHAT I AM, and who had recorded the song on two of his catalogue of CD's. Herb was at that Meet and Greet, and through Palma and later Martin, I was introduced to him, as well. After the Meet and Greet, Palma, Frank and Jackie Carey, another of Palm's close friends and one of her selfless caregivers, went to the concert Martin was doing in Atlantic city. The trio was invited then to the after party where everyone had a really grand time. Martin was generous to a fault, and very giving, and when he introduced Palma from the stage that day, it thrilled Palma very much. (As Martin introduced Palm, she stood and blew kisses to her adoring fans). It was a day for the record books.

Palma Pascale & Martin Nievera

I tell that story because it was Mr. Magtoto who not only agreed to publish my story in The Chronical, his own Philippine Newspaper - he also contacted several other publishers and the story went out in both The Filipino Express, and Planet Philippines. Both of these articles reside on the wall in my music studio. We were (are) so grateful to Herb for helping us spread a positive word about this amazing composer and friend.

The next few days were miserable for me. I would have loved to have gone to Long Island for all of the services, stories, shared tears and laughter surrounding Palma, and to share this time of deep grief with my friends, there but, alas - it was not meant to be. The miserable part for me was not only not being able to be there, but not knowing what was happening.

Tim San Paolo & Palma Pascale

I'll have to say, though, that after each event, I was either called or e-mailed with as thorough of a description of the events that had happened, music that was played, who was there , etc. by not only Frank, who had been a gem to keep me informed over the prior year of Palma's condition - and Fred, who was also instrumental in keeping me briefed; but also from other friends I'd met while there - Diana Pettit and Dominick Avento III both wrote to advise me of their take on the events. I really appreciated each of them so much for doing that.

And then, reality began to set in a bit more and a bit more as the days passed. The news got less from Long Island - the calls and e-mails got less frequent, and the reality that I would no longer hear from my Long Island composer friend - and the fact that there would be no more music coming was becoming as real AND as painful as it gets. Palm had kept me in a steady supply of her recorded compositions - she would time it so that every few months I would get a new treat from her in the mail - first one pop CD, then another (and as an aside - I received the very first I'LL LEAVE YOU THE MUSIC CD after the pop collection was broken down from a two-volume CD to two separate CD's - how bout that?) and then I got the musicals, and on it went like that. So much fun, and so much to listen to and decipher.

It was September when Fred had the idea of me doing some arrangements for the songs Palm hadn't had enough time to complete for THIS MUST BE HEAVEN. And, it was in October, then, when I flew to Long Island to finish my work at Tiki on the CD Fred had been working on so hard to finish for Palma. That was an important trip in many ways. Helping to finalize this SPECIAL album, where Palm once again shared stories for us, her listeners that she had lived - that she knew so well - about human nature and living, and....about dying as well. I was a part of this incredibly important piece of Palma Pascale's legacy, and I am beyond words grateful to Fred Guarino for asking me to be.

Laurie Mangano, Bobbie Ruth, Barry Levy, Patrizia DiLorenzo
Jackie Carey, Al Barbarino, Frank Rendo

During this past year, musicians who had worked closely with Palma in one way or another, as well as some of Palma's friends, executed two tribute concerts in her memory. The first tribute concert was held on Saturday, November 21st at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bethpage, NY and featured an interpretive dance performed by Jackie Carey, as well as the following performers, each doing one of Palma's own compositions: Frank Rendo, Al Barbarino, Laurie Mangano, Bobbie Ruth and Barry Levy, and Patrizia DiLorenzo. The tribute concert was sold out, standing room only, and there was a substantial waiting list. This was also the night that Palma's THIS MUST BE HEAVEN CD was officially released.

Patrizia DiLorenzo, Bobbie Ruth, Laurie Mangano
Jackie Carey, Frank Rendo, Al Barbarino

Now, a second "command performance" concert became necessary. It was difficult to get calendar dates for all of the same performers on the same night, yet finally the date May 14th seemed to be a "go" for the second tribute to occur, this time to be held at Samantha's Li'l Bit of Heaven, in East Northport. It was another sold out evening of musical tribute to our Palma.

In January of this year, Palma's very last album was released. It is called "I WORSHIP YOU" and it is such a rich CD - rich in that it is such a personal read by Palma - just that strong but gentle voice with piano accompaniment, only. Nothing fancy - but one can hear for themselves how "real" the talent behind the composer was. These recordings were only intended to be guide tracks for another artist who wanted to do them. Palm sat and played and sang each of these songs in order to help this other artist understand how the songs should sound.

The recordings are so pure and so simple - not overdone, I mean - and for guide tracks, they are amazingly beautiful and the true value of the stories comes across so easily - effortlessly, it seems.

Palma had absolutely NO intention of releasing these recordings. But, after hearing them for the first time, fellow recording artist and good friend Frank Rendo persuaded her to release them as a Worship Album to which Palma agreed, and requested that Frank finish the task after hear death, which he did.

I will be doing a concert in tribute to Palma in October. It will feature songs from both THE BROKEN CUP and THIS MUST BE HEAVEN. I'm looking forward to "showing off" her work and of course, to remembering her via her own compositions.

Tim San Paolo

Frank Rendo

Frank Rendo dedicated his September 4, Saturday night at Samantha's concert to Palma as a final, personal tribute to her. Frank was fortunate enough to record with Palm both on his own 3 CD's they recorded together, as well as on other songs Palm composed and recorded. They worked well together. Frank's tribute included songs from his own ~INSPIRED~, REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS, and DELIVER ME, plus Palma's THE BROKEN CUP and THIS MUST BE HEAVEN.

It seems like it's been one thing after another. Palma left a void in our lives - a chasm so deep it will take a great deal of time to heal, and I doubt it ever will, completely. Personally not a day has passed that I haven't thought about Palm; her life, and her music.

Now, one major event remains - this one was very, very important to Palma on many levels. Palm believed in helping others - she was quite an activist and cat rescuer.....she didn't just talk about it, she lived it - and she believed in helping people, too, when she could - when she was able. Palma "gave back" when it was possible for her to do so. She wanted to help the ministry of Jesus Alive, who help feed the poor all over Long Island and before she dies, again, she asked Frank Rendo to carry on with the production of this show. Palma was most instrumental in helping to create this mega event coming up on 10-10-10. Jesus Alive will present "Did You Talk To Him Today?" which is a musical "playlet" with original music written by Palma. This gala night will be held at the Patchogue Theatre For The Performing Arts in Patchogue, NY.

As he promised, Frank is supervising the production, with artistic direction and choreography lead by Olando Pena, founder and director of Ovations Dance Academy, Inc., and the Jesus Alive Choir under the baton of Gary Wilson.

Guest artists include: Maureen Arasmo, Al Barbarino, Dona Cabone, Andy Cooney, Patrizia DiLorenzo, The Glorification Singers, The Jesus Alive Choir, Fr. Charles and Laurie Mangano, Yulanda Jones, Rev. Deborah Mitchell, Rev. Karen Orlando, Paul Paoli, Frank Rendo and Emily Vaeth along with Ovations Dance Repertory Company and the Jesus Alive Dancers.

This event has been years in the planning and on 10-10-10, Palma's vision comes to fruition. Frank has been diligent in getting this to happen. I've observed it all, over the past year - it hasn't been an easy task. Yet, on 10-10-10, it will be realized, and I'm certain it will be to a full house.

You can obtain tickets from the theatre by phone at 1-877-77CLICK - Online at www.PatchogueTheatre.com, or at the box office - 71 East Main Street, Patchogue, NY.

Tim San Paolo & Palma Pascale

So, this brings me to the end of my story, for this time. I'm sitting here wondering what happens from here? I have much more music to write about, and I plan to do just that. I have no clever ending this time around, and I suppose what I'd like to do is just say "thank you" to Palma for being my teacher in many ways, being a mentor to me, and for her ever flowing humor, even during some of her toughest days - and of course, most of all, for her love and friendship.

I do need to add two important pieces before I go. The first is my personal condolences to the Pascale family, as Palma's mother Anne, died only months after Palma herself passed. Anne Pascale died in late April of this year - yet another sad event for this family.

Palma Pascale

And finally, I want to make you aware that plans are in motion to re-do Palma's current website, beginning around the first of next year. Stop by here, and stop by there often for continued updates - anecdotes, and more information about the music.

We love you, and we miss you terribly, Palma. You will always be in our hearts.

"...Safe in His arms so peacefully......and here in my heart, I'll keep you with me...."

Photos courtesy of: Tim San Paolo, Frank Rendo, Lil Greiner, Dominick Avento III, Sue Rosen, Joanna San Paolo, Rick Henry.

2010-06-13T20:58:00.006-05:00

Hi Friends:

I'm writing today to make a few comments sort of from a different perspective, if you will, regarding Palma Pascale's contemporary Christian CD's. There are three, altogether; two of these have previously been reviewed in this blog, and the other is literally the last release from Palma . the one entitled I WORSHIP YOU.

Let's talk about I WORSHIP YOU for a moment, then. This CD was not originally planned for release by Palma....at least, not until a few close friends heard her work, singing and playing these beautiful and melodic worship songs. As I have discussed on numerous occasions, Palma has such an exquisite voice - one can hear her heart as she sings, and her vocals on this album tell a huge story of her Worship and Praise to God. Such feeling embedded in each and every note as she sings these sweet songs, written by various artists. This recording is a "live" recording - all captured in one take, which makes it even more special. Interestingly, having never heard them before, and because Palm makes them flow one into another as if a medley, I believed, at first, they were her creations. She always made the song she was doing her own, and these beauties were certainly no exception. (Pictured: Palma Pascale)

It was singer/songwriter/Long Island recording artist Frank Rendo who actually talked Palm into releasing these as an album. The collection is not orchestrated as per Palm's usual fare - no, these selections are all piano and vocal only.

Frank worked very hard after Palma's death to ensure this CD was completed and readied for release, and as quickly as possible. I recall when visiting him there on Long Island (October, 09), that he and I looked over sheet after sheet of promo proofs in order to find the one that would work best to convey the sentiment of the songs. I believe, ultimately, Frank chose wisely with this demure picture of Palma he used. Frank was assisted a great deal by Dominick Avento III, a terrific gent who has a knack for awesome design. Together, Frank, assisted by Dom and his expertise in this area, came up with the entire CD package. Frank is also responsible for the poignant Forward of this one. (Pictured: Dominick Avento III, Frank Rendo)

I WORSHIP YOU is, in it's simplicity, a most soothing, melodic, mood enhancing and charming CD of worship and praise; sung and played as only Palm had the ability to do.

Of course, the CD was recorded by my friend Fred Guarino, owner of Tiki Recording Studios in Glen Cove, NY. Fred had a knack for knowing how to best capture Palm on record. He knew the best microphone setting and which microphone to use based upon the style of the song Palma was to record. His expertise about how to appropriately get the "best" sound out of his acclaimed Yamaha C7 7.4' grand piano. (Recording artists of various genres have repeatedly told Fred what a wonderful instrument he has there, and how much they enjoyed using it for their recordings). One thing is for certain - with Fred at the controls and Palm at the grand, the end result was always a highly successful recording. (Pictured: Palma Pascale, Fred Guarino)

A final touch to complete this CD's sweetness was the inclusion of Palma's original piano vocal recording of "Let's Invite Jesus" which she later orchestrated for the THIS MUST BE HEAVEN CD. The piano/vocal-only version is the one Palm sent to me just after she recorded it, and it touched me deeply, on many levels. The song was written for victims of abuse - and it tells that story well ... plus, it can be applied to anyone else! Yet another magnificent Palma Pascale composition. And that makes a nice place for me to segue into her first contemporary Christian offering, her well-known, well-loved CD, THE BROKEN CUP.

I couldn't tell you the number of times I have listened to this brilliant collection of songs. When I first received it and took a very close listen, as I have described in other musings, I knew beyond any doubt it was a special, truly inspired work. But, little did I know until just recently, exactly how true that was, and just how special it is. (As an aside - Palm used to love it when we would talk and be discussing her work, and I would begin to describe to her something new I had discovered about one tune or the next. She would never reveal "all" to me at once, but let me find the treats from each of her compositions, for myself). Inevitably, I would uncover some new sound, or instrument - something new virtually every listen. (Pictured: Palma Pascale)

Recently, I was asked to give the message at my church - to be the speaker, as it were, because our minister retired and we are currently seeking another. In between having these ministers come visit and speak to us, there are several of us who "fill-in" if you will, and prepare the message for a specific Sunday.

On May 30th, I presented a "musical message" telling my story in song, which was basically my own personal journey of faith from the start, to this date. It wasn't difficult to know "how" I would tell this story because the music I needed was as familiar to me as family.

My message began using renowned New Yorker, Peter Eldridge's composition, "Deliver Me" which became the title song for Frank Rendo's latest CD release in September of 2009. Peter is an amazing jazz artist and performs not only as a solo piano/vocal performer; he is also a member of the famed jazz quartet, THE NEW YORK VOICES. (Pictured: Tim San Paolo)

The rest of the story I wanted to tell was very easily told by using Pascale compositions. The remainder of my story was described using these powerful songs: "Let Me Introduce You," from The Broken Cup, "Mindset Glory" from THIS MUST BE HEAVEN, "The Golden Rope of Jesus," "You Couldn't Mean Me" and "A Room In My Heart" from THIS MUST BE HEAVEN - "Get Up One More Time" from The Broken Cup, "This Too Shall Pass" and "A Better Plan" from THIS MUST BE HEAVEN. (Pictured: Frank Rendo)

Here's where I'm headed with this blog - recall that I seem to find new "treasures" inevitably when re-listening to any of Palm's tunes, yes?? Well, during the preparation for the message, as I rehearsed it to get the feel of the "flow" and how it would work time-wise, etc., yet an even bigger "treasure" was revealed in a big, big way.

It was so easy to describe my journey using Palm's music because it's so right-on. It's so REAL. Though I've known this, it was brought to the fore so much during this exercise.

I've always known Palm was a very gifted composer, both her musical compositions as well as her lyrics - and I have talked about my amazement often at how she could do this so incredibly. But, as I was rehearsing this musical message at home in my studio one evening, with my wife in earshot, she would comment on one song and another.... and it became so clear to both of us that Palma not only got the "what" of her songwriting - she also got the "why."

Palma's stories are so real because Palm "got" human nature, from start to finish. She really understood the human condition - and she wrote about what she KNEW. I mean, the number of times people have commented to me about the fact that they related to a song so well because "I have done the very same thing" or "I know exactly what she meant in that song" or "I really needed to hear that today because I'm going through those exact emotions." Yes my friends, Palma "got" human nature and she got life, in general. And you know folks - she never sugar coated anything - she didn't have to - she always just told it like she saw it, and she saw it so clearly. (Pictured: Tim San Paolo)

There are times in our lives that feeling completely overwhelmed is an understatement, yes? There isn't a way to turn without seemingly facing more conflict from one person or another. Times when it seems like there just can't be a real reason to even try any more - because trying only seems to increase the pain, or make things worse somehow, instead of better. It's a never ending circle of hopelessness and despair. We have all been there at one time or another, have we not? Times when you feel significant loss over and over; in your career, your family relationships, your abilities, with your friends; and loss comes with such heavy weight to carry. Perhaps you feel as if you failed your spouse - or that you have misunderstood a situation with someone you love so significantly that the damage from this misunderstanding feels as though it can never be repaired satisfactorily. Maybe it's the walls you've built in self defense, or the walls others have built to keep you at a distance that can't be torn down, and you feel that barrier strongly, always. Perhaps you've lost a loved one to death, and you just can't understand why or how this could have happened. It could be you feel you have failed as a dad or a mom, husband or wife - or as a friend. Maybe you've said something to someone that you wish with all your heart that you could take back as if it had never been said - but which, of course, will be out there till the end of time because it HAS already been said, regrettably. Perhaps you have a serious medical condition that, in order to conquer, seems insurmountable. It could be that you feel your achievements to date have been minimal and you are not where you wanted to be in your life. Maybe you are facing employment challenges - fear of losing your job or working for someone who enjoys belittling you and making your hours each day under their charge completely miserable. Or, maybe it's just that you know you have finally made so many irreparable mistakes that nothing will ever be good again - ever, for you - or for those you hold so dear! So, why try from here? (Pictured: Palma Pascale)

There are many scenarios, aren't there? These, and so many more. Palma talks about this sort of struggle - this sort of pain - this doubt and worry and concern; about what one considers failure - about the despair and the emotions that come with it. She KNEW - she really knew how hard life could be.

The wondrous thing is, she also knew what to do when these times surfaced in our lives. She knew how to help US - you and me, her listeners, understand how we might be feeling, in the first place; but she always was willing to share the good news she also knew so much about. Palm had her own journey with God - one that involved incredible happiness - and, unbelievable sorrow as well. She didn't just write about things or "talk the talk" as they say. She knew how to "walk the walk" as well...... and she did. She knew....she really knew.

Friends, there is an answer out there - there is a friend above all others for each of us. His love for us is always available to us, no matter what the circumstance - He is a force so powerful there can be no way for us as humans to adequately describe Him. He is God, and despite what you are going through, He is on your journey with you - you do not travel it alone. When we make mistakes, He holds out His hand to help us get up one more time - to stop looking back. Rather, he helps us understand how to move forward. He is the God who Loves us like no other, and despite your best efforts to plan your journey, He's got a better plan. We may not recognize that His plan is better at first, but He'll pilot every storm and keep you safe and warm. So, persevere ... and have no fear! (Pictured: Palma Pascale)

See? Using just some of Palm's lyrics in my writing gets my point across so well about the abundant love God holds for each of us. I feel that these Christian offerings from Palma were Spirit-kissed and these messages are both holy, and as real as they come! Palm simply got what living was all about.

Though I feel I can relate to each of Palma's tunes in some way, there is one that touches me so strongly each time I hear or perform it. In fact, those in charge of the upcoming big Jesus Alive event slated for 10-10-10, the one for which Palma penned a lot of her fabulous songs - has been appropriately titled after this song I'm speaking of. The song is from THE BROKEN CUP, and is titled "Did You Talk To Him Today?"

If you have not heard this one, you are doing yourself a disservice. It asks probing, yet simple questions of the listener - important questions that will make one stop...think and then, act! She asks:

"....Did you talk to Him today? Did you say what's in your heart?

Did you tell Him of the things that are tearing you apart?

Did you think to ask His help? Well, you know, you really could.

He is waiting on the way....did you talk to Him today? Well, you know, you really should.

Did you talk to Him of loss? Did you tell Him of your pain?

Did you tell Him what it cost? Did you ask Him to explain?

Did you question why it is Heaven seems so far away?

All the answers wait for you ... it's a simple thing to do ...

Did you talk to Him today?

Did you ask how long it takes to rejuvenate a soul

who is weary of the world? Surely life can take a toll.

Did you wonder if He heard? Does He listen when you pray?

Even when it's only tears, He will understand your fears, He hears everything you say.

Did you talk to Him today? Did you say what's in your heart?

Did you tell Him of the things that are tearing you apart?

Did you think to ask His help? Well, you know, you really could.

He is waiting on the way ...did you talk to Him today? Well, you know, you really should...."

There is nothing I could say following those words that would have a more substantial impact.

I miss our dear friend Palma so much, and I think of her most often. Her music has always been a source of comfort and happiness to me. Now, it's providing valuable "life lessons" on a deeper level than before. I know I continue to learn a lot, and I'm grateful for each song we have to listen to.

Hey....Did You Talk To Him Today?

I wish each of you all my very best~
~Tim

Photo credits: Joanna San Paolo, Dominick Avento III, Frank Rendo, Palma Pascale

2010-05-23T19:56:00.007-05:00

Hello everyone ~

I didn't want a lot of time to pass before I wrote to you about the second tribute event that took place in order to celebrate the life and music of my dearl friend - Palma Pascale.

The event was spearheaded by another of Palma's close friends, Frank Rendo. As there were people actually turned away from the first tribute to Palma (held in November of 2009), as well as having names of hopefuls on a waiting list for tickets at that event, this second tribute was a command performance...not only by those who didn't get their tickets in time or were turned away at the door the last time, but also by those who DID experience the love and music in that room on that November evening; generated by these talented artists and friends of Palma's. Frank followed-up with each of the artists as they attempted to coordinate their availabilities, and finally, he found a "sweet spot;" the evening of May 14th everyone was available. (Pictured: Al Barbarino)

The performers are each well-known in the Long Island area - all professionals who perform at various venues throughout the year. But these 6 people have one specific thread of commonality that makes a huge difference when speaking of these two tribute events: each of them were Palma's friend. And each of them loved her and her artistry very much. Fred Guarino of Tiki Recording Studios, Glen Cove, NY, (www.tikirecording.com) who had worked with Palma longest of anyone (of these performers) is certainly included in that common thread. Fred was a trusted friend of Palma's. When Palm and Fred worked together - well, the results were consistently pure genius! (Pictured: Fred Guarino - Palma Pascale)

Living some 1,250+ miles away from East Northport NY, where the event was held at Samantha's Li'l Bit of Heaven (www.samanthaslittlebitofheaven.org), I was unable to attend either of the tributes. Having said that however, I can, nevertheless, report to you that the event on this night was quite a special one, indeed. Good reports from all around.

Patrizia DiLorenzo, Bobbie Ruth, Laurie Mangano, Frank Rendo, Jackie Carey and Al Barbarino took the stage at Samantha's at 8:30 p.m. The program was as follows:

The Songs and the Artists:

~ SET ONE ~

1] “Get Up One More Time” - PatriziaDiLorenzo

From Palma’s “The Broken Cup” CD

2] “Love Me For What I Am” – BobbieRuth

From Palma’s “I’ll Leave You The Music” CD

3] “We’ve Got To Love Again”– Bobbie Ruth

From Palma’s“In & Out Of Love” CD

4] “GentleVisitor” – Laurie Mangano

From Fr. Charles & Laurie’s “God’s UnbelievableLove” CD

5] “Did You Talk To HimToday?” – Laurie Mangano

From Palma’s “The Broken Cup” CD

6] “Enough Grace For Today” –Laurie Mangano & Frank Rendo

From Fr. Charles & Laurie’s “God’s UnbelievableLove” CD

7] “Heal Me” – AlBarbarino

From Al’s“The Cry Of The Poor” CD

8]“Let Go, Let God” – Al Barbarino

From Al’s“Let Go, Let God” CD

9]“Room In My Heart” – Al Barbarino

From Al’s“Let Go, Let God” CD (Pictured: Bobbie Ruth)

~INTERMISSION ~

(Pictured L to R: Patrizia DiLorenzo, Bobbie Ruth, Laurie Mangano, Jackie Carey, Frank Rendo, Al Barbarino)

~ SET TWO ~

10] “This Must Be Heaven” – JackieCarey, dancing to Palma’s vocal

From Palma’s “This Must Be Heaven” CD

11] “RememberingChristmas” – Frank Rendo

From Frank’s “Remembering Christmas” CD

12] “Much Less ThanChristmas” – Frank Rendo

From Frank’s “Remembering Christmas” CD

13] “ The Love Letter” – FrankRendo & Patrizia DiLorenzo

From Palma’s “The Broken Cup” CD

14] “To Keep You With Me” – FrankRendo

From Frank’s “Deliver Me” CD

15] “All I Ever Taught You” –Frank Rendo

From Frank’s “Deliver Me” CD

16] “A Better Plan” – Ensemble

(Pictured: Laurie Mangano)

Samantha Tetro said of the event: "Through Palma's tribute there was no doubt that beyond the music , the production and the outstanding orchestration , the most memorable was how God used Palma's lyrics as an inspiring instrument for us all to hear. Through the words God gave her...the message was clear...I love you, I am waiting for you. I am all you need. Come to me. May the power of those words with the beauty of the melodies behind them draw them to the very one who desires us to choose HIM for eternity ... Jesus." (Pictured: Samantha Tetro)

Whew! Now, isn't THAT a beautiful statement? Thank you, Samantha.

Frank was careful to add special thanks to the artists on the program notes; to Fred Guarino for his incredible talent in mixing and mastering the album THIS MUST BE HEAVEN, and consequently, the performance tracks used at the tribute this evening ... and Paul Richards of WHLI Radio, Long Island, NY www.WHLI.com - for his support and promotion of the event and, of course, to Samantha Tetro, who hosted the event right there at "Heaven." Frank tells me that Paul Richards ran Public Service Announcements (PSA's) about the tribute show, and it was reported by more than one listener that Palma's tune "You Couldn't Mean Me" from her wonderful THIS MUST BE HEAVEN CD, was heard more than once on WHLI, as well. So...thank you Paul, for giving airtime to Palma, and for the PSA's that you ran about this special event. Pictured: Palma Pascale)

Frank also inserted a copy of the article that I penned both for this blog, and that I submitted to Newsday, the Long Island newspaper who declined to print it as either a memorial to Palma or as an obituary, which was the initial purpose.

The byline for the article had me listed as Palma's "Publicist" ... when it came to Palma, the hats I wore included Publicist, Archivist, Internet Researcher, Musician, and Chief Cook and Bottle Washer. I was a jack of all trades; master of none. I so enjoy(ed) writing about her work and promoting her events and her CD's.

But the hat I enjoyed wearing the most was that of just being a friend! It was easy to be a friend to Palma and if you were her friend, she took that very seriously. Her friends weren't just people who were more acquainted with her than others - these people were the special, important people in her life - and she wouldn't hesitate to let us or anyone else know that....Palm always made her friends feel special! She had the gift to do that. Her warm smile - her heartfelt hug, and that beautiful, wonderful sense of humor. Oofah! Such a sincere, sweet lady, Palma was.

So, though I don't have a radio station to use, I did attempt to promote the event in several of my blogs, and throughout various places on the Internet. I used the flier above in my promotions, which was created by Frank Rendo. (Pictured: Tim San Paolo)

I understand that the event was completely sold out again! And...as I would have suspected, people once again had to, unfortunately, be turned away.

The evening was filled with smiles, melodies, stories, shared memories, and tears. Palma Pascale was one special, special individual and everyone in that room on that night, along with yours truly, knows this to be a fact.

Regarding promotions, I want to publicly thank a really great guy and new friend to me, Bruce Worrell. Bruce is at the helm of another radio station; an Internet station called "Arise Radio." Though I did not request Bruce to run any PSA's, he did play Palm's music on Arise Radio. In fact, Bruce now has not only Palma's complete Christian Catalogue - I have also supplied him with a complete discography of Frank Rendo, too. As you may recall if you're a regular reader of the blog I created about Frank, Ramblings Regarding RENDO, www.RamblingsRegardingRendo.blogspot.com, the first two weeks that Frank's music was aired on Arise Radio, he ranked in the top 20 most popular for those weeks.

[NOTE] I just found out, as I was preparing this blog for publication, that this week, Palma's song "The Love Letter" from her CD THE BROKEN CUP, came in at number 13 for it's first week of airplay on Arise Radio. Palma sang this song on the CD with her friend, Tenor, Gary Jerome.

So friends, that's my report for now. Before I close, I'd like to personally thank someone here - someone I feel so blessed to call my friend; Jackie Carey. Jackie did an Interpretive Dance to open the second half of the show, and knowing what I do of Jackie, I can only imagine how beautiful and meaningful it was. Jackie, too, is a very special lady; generous to a fault as well as supportive and plain fun to be around. Jackie and Palma were very close friends and it's way easy to understand why. A very choice "Thank You" from me to Jackie for not only providing unwavering love and support to Frank, and for all you continue to do for Palma, but also for your incredible thoughtfulness to me and to others. (You know what I'm referring to, Jackie - and I could never, ever thank you enough). (Pictured: Jackie Carey - Palma Pascale)

Sincere thanks from me to good friend Fred Guarino, as well! Fred has incomparable skills when it comes to the art of recording, mixing, mastering and everything that goes with the process. But there's much MORE than just Fred's knowledge to take into consideration, here. Not only is he a good friend to have, Fred also has this uncanny ability to "hear" what ISN'T there in a recording, and what's needed - things many times the artist can't recognize. He offers lots of outstanding ideas and his musicality shines forth at those times as well as his genius at the controls. Thank you, Fred, for all the magic you continually create. Bravo! Well done!!! (Pictured: Tim San Paolo - Fred Guarino)

Personal thanks, too, to Samantha Tetro for opening her heart and her beautiful establishment in order for this event to occur. Samantha's Li'l Bit of Heaven is a very special place where everything and everyone who goes there absorbs blessing after blessing. Serenity abounds, and the love of God and of fellow-man is so obvious to those who enter the doors - Thank you, Samantha, for your generosity and your love for Palma.

Big thanks from me, as well, to Dominick Avento III for his willingness to help by doing whatever he can, whenever it's Palma that is a part of the picture. You know I appreciate you very much, Dom, as I know your friends there on Long Island, do.

Of course, my very sincere, heartfelt thanks to Bobbie Ruth, Patrizia DiLorenzo, Al Barbarino and Laurie Mangano for their parts in paying tribute to this one-of-a-kind composer of Christian Music. (Pictured L to R: Patrizia DiLorenzo, Bobbie Ruth, Laurie Mangano, Jackie Carey, Dominick Avento III, Al Barbarino)

Finally, though it goes without saying, my most sincere thanks to Frank Rendo for his perseverance in ensuring that this second tribute occurred. For all of your efforts, Frank - for your time, your energy and your enthusiasm toward this show, not to mention your love for Palma, I thank you! Your efforts resulted in a beautiful evening for many and one that will be remembered for a long time to come. Palm must have been smiling....I feel certain about it.
(Pictured: Bobbie Ruth and Frank Rendo)

One day I, too, will have the opportunity to attend ... perhaps even perform at an event in honor of / in tribute to Palma Pascale. Until that day comes, I will continue to attempt to fulfill my role behind the scenes and out of the spotlight; to record the details for others to read, and do my part in promoting Palma and her fabulous music at every available opportunity.

Palm, you are THE BEST!

I'll leave you with a few of the lyrics from Palma's gorgeous song "What The Ocean Knows" from her CD titled IN & OUT OF LOVE.

" ... The Horizon lines the sky, and it meets like you and I~

How it knows how close to be without bleeding into the sea ....

How it touches and remains - still in tact, even when it rains~

How it knows how far to go - wish I knew what the ocean knows.

Came the day, then came your touch, and I never felt so much~

How I've lived without you near - how I've lived it's not so clear.

The horizon knows it's place, and the sky has it's own space~

But my heart into yours flows....wish I knew what the ocean knows....

Love is more than the ocean knows..."

Until next time then, I wish you all my very best,

~Martini (aka) Tim

PHOTOS courtesy of Frank Rendo, Palma Pascale, Tim San Paolo - Album Cover Designs - Palma's "Cousin Lil" and Dominick Avento III - Flier design - Frank Rendo

2010-04-19T12:45:00.002-05:00

"...Oh that I could live with such a love as this

and go on through my life, and not have it for my own.

Oh then there's no beauty in the sky -

Oh then there's no motion in the hills as they roll by

In the home where my love lives..........without me.

Oh that I could look and see another face

and walk away content to be without him in my heart.

Oh then there are no more words to rhyme.

Oh then all the music fades away with passing time.

I just can't believe it's so - if it is, I'll never know -

I'll be four and two forever .........if it happens.

Oh that I could sleep with such a dream as this

and wake beside the heart I miss - of no one at my side.

Oh then there's no reason for my life.

Oh then there's no point in holding onto it so tight.

Tell me, what do I believe and what is it I can't leave?

For if I've received my fate, I have to know.....

Whether I can go on living with the thought.................I let it go! ..."

A warm Spring greeting to all of you fans and friends of Palma Pascale.

I really hadn't intended to write here on this breautiful day, but I have been searching for an important document I need to use in working with another of Palma's tunes, and in searching through the sea of papers I have, I ran across an email from my beautiful and talented friend dated Monday, July 31, 2006, that I wanted to share. It was one of the more important emails I'd received up to that date, and for various reasons. Mostly, it was because I learned on that Monday night that, because of my writing about Palm's work in such detail that I was (at least partially) responsible for her sitting down again, composing some of her "new" work....new at that time, that is. Some of that work, I believe, can be heard on the THIS MUST BE HEAVEN CD. I had been sent a tune or two at that point that were new compositions, as Palm loved sending new tunes to me every bit as much as I loved getting them. The tunes I had listened to, though, were more in her "Sinatraesque" style, not her Christian music. In a later e-mail, Palm refers to one of the Christian pieces, however, in particular, YOU COULDN'T MEAN ME, the first track of THIS MUST BE HEAVEN.

I remember when I met Fred and Palm at Tiki in October of 07, and Palm played and sang this one for my wife and me - and told me I'd been the inspiration for her to start writing again.

Can you imagine how this made me feel? ME? Responsible for Palm writing new tunes? Unheard of.....

I don't believe I'll ever get another compliment quite like that one. It was so immensly important to me. Many times I would question her about when she would write again - how did the process go for her, etc. So, for her to say she'd started writing again at least in part because of my writing.....sharing my humble opinion in review of her work ; it was such an honor for me.

I've mentioned in other blogs how the "reviews" began very innocently, really, with just a letter of appreciation that I wrote to Palm after having been exposed to THE BROKEN CUP for a few days. That CD grabbed hold of me and would NOT let go.

I also ran across Palm's response to that letter. If I may, I'd like to share a bit of it:

-----Original Message-----

From: Palma Pascale [mailto:palmacarponline@yahoo.com]

Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2006 6:13 PM

To: Timothy San Paolo

Subject: The Best Review, EVER!

Dearest Tim,

I am stunned by your exquisite review and commentary...you are like my very own ROGER EBERT, and I relished every word of your song reviews. Wow! I am forwarding it to my friend, Fred, at the studio, and he suggested we quote from your letter, with your permission, when it seems appropriate to give people a "sense" of the album. I am one smiling songwriter/singer tonight, that's for sure!!!

Thank you for taking so much time and for being so very specific...I feel every word and am so uplifted once again by you. I will SO MUCH enjoy hearing how your versions go over in church, and please feel free to play the CD if you wish. If I am lucky, I may hear from a few more folks in your state who want the album. Think of how responsible YOU would be for helping me get known in your beautiful neck of the woods!!

Love, Palma

We wrote about many things to each other - I was forever asking questions, and Palm loved it. Within the WHAT THE HELL NELL! songs came a real upbeat favorite for me called "Big Mike's Genteel Joint" - a lively, ragtime story about a little saloon in New York City. Palm had done some counter lines along with the melody in a certain place and I wanted to know what both lines were. I had guessed, but knew she'd fill me in. Within her answer, however, she said some other very important things to me:

Hi Tim,
   Great letter, as always. Your words make me feel very inspired to write more and more. I can't tell you how you help me revisit my own stuff. You know, the writing is VERY EASY, and the only process is to think logically, in my own way, about what might be said next. There always seem to be alot of "choices'" and the only conflict is sometimes picking a line. I usually go with what I mumbled first. By the way, I try to maintain a very light and "sketchy" feeling as I start, and then I have to keep up quickly with random thoughts, because that's all they seem to be. I try to take them seriously, because otherwise, I would constantly dismiss them. They don't hang around long. Does that mean anything to you?

The counter lines that bump up against each other at the end of BIG MIKES are :
BOWERY BEAUTIES: Children play here, night and day here
                                   Milk and cookies served
                                   There's no fightin' just delightin' squeals are ever heard

while the BOWERY BRUISERS sing: They keep a comin'
                                                        The place is hummin'
                                                         Uptown swells are due
                                                          They'll be arriving soon at 33 Montague

So you were close! I remember dashing off those 4 counter lines while we were making the recording. I felt like boosting the excitement level of the company number at that point, and I grabbed a pen on Fred's console and just wrote them. You see what I mean about grabbing it all quickly...otherwise it completely disappears. I very rarely remember anything a few moments afterward. I am always puzzled by people who say "Oh, I won't write it down, because if it's that good, I'll remember it tomorrow." If that were true, you and I wouldn't even know each other because the Carpenter song would never have been written, and you know the rest.

So I think I am nailing down WHY your words are extra important to me. Every time you marvel at something it reminds me that THAT is something that I almost didn't write down, or pay attention to. It makes me notice my own thoughts alot more. Mostly, I avoid getting started. I should start more often, especially when it could mean so much to so many people. I have to thank you again for that.

So, there are a couple of examples of how interesting I find it that both of us were so inspired by the other. I mean....I was completely inspired by Palma's music - so much so that I didn't give up playing and singing as had been my plan.... rather, I took up a whole new path with my music as hearing THE BROKEN CUP, and meeting Palm changed all those prior plans. Her music and those stories were helping me, while my words about that awesome music was really touching her, too. That was what it was all about - for both of us - the entire 4 years. I worked from my heart and wrote to you, my readers, about this woman and her phenomenal talent, and Palm composed from HER heart - and she'd be so enthused to send me the new songs - it was a grand friendship and mutual admiration, for certain.

I miss her every single day. I do find solace, at least, a bit, in the extraordinary catalogue of songs she left behind. Her creativity - her energy - her amazing genius will never, ever be forgotten.

That's all for today - since I ran across these pieces of correspondence, I wanted to share at least a piece or two of them with you.

I have so much more to write about. I am composing a Wikipedia page for Palm, too, and I hope to, at some point, learn enough to update and enhance her current website. Oofah!

BTW, I've had lots of orders for and I have been sending out lots of Palma's CD's both Christian and Pop. Yesterday, I got the nicest comment - Palma would want me to share it with you here:

"I am SO looking forward togetting this new CD. I have no doubt whatsoever I'll be as enamored with it asI currently am Palma's "This Must Be Heaven" CD. I loaded the TMBHsongs onto my iPod and I take them with me and listen to (and sing to) themevery single day in my drive to work. It never fails to put a big smile on myface. I just love her songs - what brilliance!"

That was from another musician on the West Coast, Heather Glynn.

I'm with you, Heather - I listen to Palm every single day as well. Her work never fails to put a smile on my face, and perhaps a tear in my eye. Unbelievable!

I have no idea where my next inspiration to write will come from, so I'll just close saying thank you to all my readers for the love and respect you've always shown to our Palma. She SO loved knowing that her friends and fans alike were getting better acquainted with the gift she owned. She was about the music!

"... Tell me what do I believe, and what is it I can't leave?

For if I've received my fate, I have to know

whether I can go on living with the thought, I LET IT GO! ..."

Until Next Time Then,

Martini~

Photo Credits: In & Out Of Love Cover- Dominick Avento III, and photo of Palma is from the collection of Frank Rendo.

2010-04-02T22:10:00.012-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Happy Easter to you...

It's official and the date has been set for a second tribute concert for the wonderful Long Island composer, recording artist Palma Pascale.

Palma left this world on September 8, 2009. Her music and legacy will live on and endure in the hearts of this loving community of fans and friends, as well as those around the globe who have fallen in love with that beautiful voice, and those incredibly awesome compositions.

As my regular readers are aware, Palma composed in many genres from Ragtime to Contemporary Christian music. Her fan base is huge and truly spans the globe. Just ask someone from the Philippines to sing "LOVE ME FOR WHAT I AM" for you - and they WILL! They know every word, as evidenced by the YouTube video of Martin Nievera, the "Concert King" of the Philippines who sang this song to an audience of 50,000+. When the camera panned the audience, they were all singing the song; every single word. Watch it, here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIbSqjuO4Yc&playnext_from=TL&videos=qLdyUy3X81I

Palma was so touched when, at various times last year when she was in the hospital, Philippine nurses, techs and aides alike would come into her room singing her own songs to her. She felt very well cared for by all of them, and they adored her and her indescribably vast talent.

Personally, I long to be a part of this tribute event, as I was fortunate enough to be counted among Palma's "close friends." I was given the opportunity to contribute to her last Christian album, due to the thoughtfulness of Tiki Recording Studio owner, Fred Guarino. I was extremely honored to help with this project - a most rewarding experience for me - contributing musical arrangements as well as lending my voice to the effort. I've never been more proud of any musical accomplishment as I was of this - something I couldn't have imagined getting to be involved with four short years ago.

I will not be able to attend this event, nor will I be one of the "friends who have worked with her in the music industry" who " wish to celebrate her artistry" on this night - one of those who will be performing - showing their love to the world for both Palm and her music. I will have to wait on a report of the evening's events; then I promise to write about it here. I have no doubt whatsoever it will be a huge, sold-out success, just as the first tribute concert was.

And, speaking of reporting - I can tell you that the first tribute to Palma "In Her Own Words" was, indeed, a monumental success. St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bethpage, NY, was the venue, and these same artists performed music composed by Palma to a sold-out, standing room only crowd....and there was a "waiting list" for last minute available tickets.

The performers: Frank Rendo, Patrizia DiLorenzo, Jackie Carey, Al Barbarino, Bobbie Ruth Levy and Laurie Mangano sang solos and duets, and they gave their all on this night to a large crowd of appreciative individuals who left the concert with a little more love and a lot more happiness in their hearts. Friend Jackie Carey is an Interpretive Dancer, and her contribution to both events is an Interpretive Dance to Palma's title song, "This Must Be Heaven" with Palma, herself, singing the vocals. All reports, from the performers themselves, to audience members told the same story of the success of the event. I have no doubt, whatsoever, that Palm was having a heavenly party on that night - looking down from the Heaven that she wrote so eloquently about, and being reminded of just how loved she was: and what an impact she made on so many lives within the musical world, and outside of it, with her compositions.

It was on this night that THIS MUST BE HEAVEN was initially released. As my previous blog is all about this magnificent CD, I won't repeat lots of details about it here - suffice to say, however, there are two people who, without them, THIS MUST BE HEAVEN would never have seen the light of day as a completed CD.

First, my talented friend - master engineer, Fred Guarino. Fred's vision to finish this CD, and the untold hours of love and toil he put into its production is just without description.

Secondly, the tenacity of Frank Rendo who performs on the CD (part of the joy for me in doing my part was singing with Frank and working closely with Fred) . Frank had performed so intimately with Palma over the prior two years, both in concert, and in the studio. He was instrumental in helping to organize the first tribute show, as well as this one - performing in both as well as acting as Master of Ceremonies for both events.

This, of course, is the CD I was a part of, as well - and I wrote my most difficult blog ever, all about it.

I thank Fred for his determination in producing this CD. It could not have been a more difficult task for a friend and colleague of more than 25 years to do - finish the production of the CD where Palma's voice literally played over and over again in Fred's ear - hour after hour, until the final track was mastered, and in place. This only weeks after her untimely death.

Frank, on the other hand, had shows to do - with tracks made for his last three albums by Palma - and her voice on many of them. Plus, a good number of these songs were her very own compositions. The previous year, these two dear friends shared the stage with each other many times (as well as the untold number of hours they were together in the studio), but most notably at Christmas time. Frank was charged with continuing to perform, only this Christmas season, without his friend and collaborating partner at his side.

There are many things that generally aren't given much pause, until one lives through them, eh? Typically, none of us really look at the depth of a significant loss in the broader scope of its ramifications. In this case, there were many. The ripple continues to this day.

As for me, I plan to continue my writings regarding Palm and her music. You see....I asked a lot of questions early on, which Palm rarely, if ever, failed to answer for me - IN DETAIL! She didn't have to do it, but she never felt that any question was trite or pointless, and an answer would always come. Oh sure, there are MANY things we were GOING to discuss ...... later. Sadly, later will never happen for us. But, I have much to write about - a tremendous amount to say, and a lot of good e-mails and archived "Palma" information to draw from... for a long time to come.

If you are one of the fortunate ones who live in or around the Long Island area, make your plans NOW to attend this second, quite special night of music and celebration as these 7 splendid artists share with you the stunning music of Palma Pascale.

Hmmm....7 artists - Palm would very much have appreciated that, as 7 was her favorite number. Fitting somehow, don't you think?

Here then, are the details:

ADVANCED TICKETS - $20.00----Tickets MUST BE PRE-PURCHASED - (phone reservations are not available for this event)

Tickets are available by contacting Samantha's Li'l Bit of Heaven287 Larkfield Road, East Northport, NY 11731.

PHONE: 631-262-1212.

Doors will open at 8pm - show begins at 8:30 pm.

Samantha's is a fragrance-free environment.

RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST!!! (Early Reservations Suggested)

Call now to reserve your seats for one East Northport's GREATEST evenings of music, celebration and refreshment. A Tribute To Palma Pascale.

www.SamanthasLilBitofHeaven.org.

Until next time, I remain

Musically yours,
~Tim (AKA) Martini~

PHOTOS in order of appearance - Martin Nievera, Tim San Paolo & Fred Guarino, Tim San Paolo and Palma Pascale, Palma Pascale's THIS MUST BE HEAVEN CD cover, Palma Pascale & Jackie Carey, Fred Guarino, Frank Rendo, Frank Rendo & Palma Pascale, Tim San Paolo, and the performers of the TRIBUTE TO PALMA, "In Her Own Words."