Michael Bearden Instagram – I first met Tony in London many years ago when I was working with Liza Minelli. After one of the shows at Royal Albert Hall, Tony came backstage. ⠀ ⠀ The crazy thing to me was, he came directly over to me to tell me how much he enjoyed my piano playing. He said, “you really know how to follow a singer young man.” My mouth on the floor, I was like, “thank you Mr. Bennett!” I was still so young in the business at that time. ⠀ ⠀ I ended up talking to him for a bit that night. Just about music and stuff. ⠀ ⠀ After that first meeting, I had the pleasure of seeing Tony and, working with him a few times on various shows and events. He was always class personified. ⠀ ⠀ Towards his final days, I was honored to have been the music director and conductor, for his last ever public musical performance at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. ⠀ ⠀ As his health was deteriorating, I was most insistent that we try to make Tony’s final bows on the concert stage a memorable one. I really wanted it to be as grand as possible, to match the stature of Tony’s amazing life and career! ⠀ ⠀ Although it was difficult emotionally because of his health, I was so grateful that thee Lady trusted me and agreed to the show. They were both magnificent! It was magical! ⠀ After the show, I walked over to Mr. Bennet and his wife to thank him and say good show. He did not say my name, but he walked very close to my face, he always smiled when he saw me, looked me directly in the eyes and said, “we did good huh?” 😢 Yes! Mr, Bennett. We did good! ⠀ ⠀ I will never forget that for the rest of my days!⠀ ⠀ There are not enough superlatives to describe the enormity of Tony Bennet! He was an extraordinary human being on many levels. And, not just music. I am forever grateful to have known such a person in my life time. ⠀ ⠀ We still have the music! Rest well Mr. Bennett. Yours was a life well lived! M~ 🕊🙏🏾