Gallaudet University for the Deaf Hosts World Class Concert Pianist BETHANIS

Business Wire, July 30, 1999

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. & WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 30, 1999--

The sexy young male concert pianist BETHANIS is presenting the music of Beethoven to a predominantly deaf and hard of hearing audience at Gallaudet University on the evening of October 15th at 7:30.

The visual multi-media combined performance will provide a riveting experience tracing the life of Ludwig van Beethoven. Gallaudet Theatre Arts Department Chair, Jeffrey Grandel noted, "We have never had an event like this...we are looking forward to this event and having BETHANIS on campus."

The concept of bringing Beethoven to the deaf and hard of hearing is the brainchild of BETHANIS, a former child piano prodigy, who is the youngest person ever to have been granted a Ph.D. in Music by the prestigious Claremont Graduate School in Los Angeles. BETHANIS won the Mozart Concerto Competition, the Bartok Competition, and was the winner of the Maine State Solo and Ensemble Competition. BETHANIS' worldwide virtuoso tour begins with the Gallaudet performance, which is expected to be televised. The production is being filmed and submitted to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in the documentary category for Oscar consideration.

BETHANIS said the idea of performing Beethoven at Gallaudet occurred when playing Beethoven for his paternal grandmother. "My grandmother sat in a chair just a few feet from where I practiced piano for hours every day of my childhood. She could not hear very well, but she took such delight in the music and my passion for the music."

BETHANIS concert performances are being scheduled for Asia, Europe, South America, followed by an extensive U.S. tour including some of the largest venues. BETHANIS represents a contradiction: sex appeal and classical music. Contact BETHANIS sponsorship and booking representatives at bethanis@bethanis.com or 954-486-7671. Tickets are free but must be reserved by contacting Jo Rackham at the Theatre Arts Department of Gallaudet University 202-651-5501 or 202-651-5502 (TTY). Seating is limited.