Vocalists

Perry Como

Born in Cannonsburg as Pierino Como, one of a family of 13 children. Worked as a barber and married his high school sweetheart, Roselle Beline. Landed a spot in the Freddie Carlone Orchestra and in 1937, joined the Ted Weems orchestra where he was featured on the band's Beat the Band radio program. With the start of World War II, found himself back in Canonsburg in a barbershop cutting hair. CBS radio rescued him, offering a weekly show. RCA signed him to a recording contract that garnered him 42 Top 10 hits in the next 14 years. Hits included "Dig You Later (A Hubba-Hubba-Hubba"), "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows," "They Say It's Wonderful," "Surrender" and "Some Enchanted Evening." The 1945 rendition of "Till the End of Time" was his most memorable hit from this era.

Other hits were on the lighter side of romance and included "Hot Diggity" and "Papa Loves Mambo." Made his television debut in 1948 with NBC's The Chesterfield Supper Club. In 1950, had his own show on CBS, The Perry Como Show, which ran for five years and for another eight years on NBC, the show that featured his theme song "Sing Along With Me." In 1956 and '57 he won Emmy Awards for most outstanding television personality. Retired from his show in 1963, opting to work only occasionally on TV specials, including traditional Christmas shows. Returned to live performances in the 1970s, playing Las Vegas. The 1970s also gave rise to his million-record seller "It's Impossible." Received the Kennedy Center Honors award for outstanding achievement in the performing arts.

George Benson

Singer who has achieved success both as a jazz musician and a pop vocalist. Organized his own rock band at the age of 17. During the 1960's, performed in a jazz quartet led by organist Jack McDuff. Played with his own quartet beginning in 1965. Also recorded with such jazz stars as Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Freddie Hubbard, and Lee Morgan during that time. During the 1970's, began recording vocals of romantic songs. First hit was "This Masquerade," a selection from his popular album Breezin' (1976). Other vocal hits include "The Greatest Love of All" (1977), "On Broadway" (1977) and "20/20" (1984). Maintained jazz roots in the 1980s and 1990s by recording with the bands of Count Basie and jazz guitarist Earl Klugh.

Renee Fleming

Born in Indiana, PA, and grew up in Rochester, New York. Both parents were voice teachers, her musical training came naturally. Studied at the Juilliard School and holds degrees from the State University of New York at Potsdam and the Eastman School of Music. Early recognition includes the 1988 Metropolitan Opera National Auditions, the Richard Tucker Award, the George London Prize, the Grand Prix at the International Singing Competition in Belgium, and a Fulbright Scholarship to Germany. Has a devoted international following whether on the operatic stage, in concert or recital, on television, radio or on disc. Won a 1999 Grammy Award for her recording, "The Beautiful Voice."