Chapter three

“Famous”

ary was relieved when the morning's vocal tuition and stage deportment class ended. His tenor voice had begun to feel the strain. Gary felt pleased with his progress, especially when his tutor commented several times on his overall improvement in score reading. As he headed down the front steps, he turned to see Ahe running to catch him.

"I've been looking for you. Can you spare a minute? I've been wondering whether you would like to join a group to make music and perform at a restaurant. With my guitar accompanying your songs, we'd be a hit. Aaron is keen to be included. He's good on guitar, and flute which he is studying at the conservatorium."

Gary was surprised by the request but could see that Ahe was very enthusiastic and anxious for his agreement.

"I'm not sure that I'm that good. Who will write the arrangements."

"I will, I'm taking composition and score arrangement along with guitar."

"Before we make any final decision I think we should get together for a trial and discuss what you have in mind and whether we really are a suitable ensemble."

"Fair enough, how about tomorrow afternoon at my place?" Gary agreed.

As Ahe left him, Gary wondered what they would be like performing as a trio. Gary thought further about Ahe's invitation as he drove home. He enjoyed singing in the choral society and with the gay choir, but he seldom got any opportunity to sing as a soloist. He preferred classical to popular music, but Ahe's idea would provide opportunity for a new direction. When he told Richard about the invitation, Richard expressed some surprise.

"Popular music is hardly your forte; do you really want fame and fortune in bars of that ilk?"

"With an artist like Ahe, it'll be quality music which can only help my performance experience. I think I'll give it a trial."

Gary phoned Ahe to confirm the appointment. With Richard, Terry, and Sean who was again with them for the weekend, they discussed suitable songs for restaurant audiences. Gary was surprised that both teenagers recommended popular ballads and famous show stoppers. With their help, Gary had some preferences when he arrived at Ahe's flat. Ahe took Gary into the lounge where he found Aaron had already arrived. Aaron was another tenor who sang with Gary in both choirs. In no time, Ahe produced several pieces he had arranged for voice and guitar.

"Aaron told me that you have a very good tenor voice. I have adapted these in what I think is a suitable key. Aaron has tried t