February 25, 2005

Bernard Katz Memorial Celebration and Premiere of Documentary

DETROIT, MI (February 22, 2005) - The family and friends of Bernie Katz, well known pianist, composer and teacher, along with Wayne State University, are honoring his life and legacy with the premiere of \"Bernie and Friends: A Potpourri of Musical Scenes\" at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 6, 2005 on the campus of Wayne State. All proceeds from the memorial event will benefit the Bernard Katz Memorial Scholarship in Piano or Voice held in the WSU Department of Music. The Bernard Katz Memorial Celebration is being held in the Schaver Music Recital Hall, located at 480 W. Hancock in Detroit. For additional information or to make a reservation, call (313) 577-9394.

The Katz Family is inviting the community to join them on Wayne State\'s campus on the one-year anniversary of Bernie\'s passing as they pay tribute to his life and many musical contributions. Admission to the memorial celebration is by a donation to the Bernard Katz Memorial Scholarship in Piano or Voice. Checks may be made payable to Wayne State University. A reception, hosted by the Katz Family, will follow the event at 3:45 p.m.

\"Bernie and Friends\", a documentary produced by family friend Richard Huebner, is a labor of love which began six months ago. The documentary, a ninety-minute DVD featuring 25 performances, 50 local musicians and 60 years of music history, is being shown to pay tribute to Bernie\'s musical genius. \"Bernie was the world\'s greatest \'uncle\',\" states sister-in-law Fern Katz. \"He enriched all of our lives with his caring, sharing of his musical genius, and sense of humor.\" The DVD can be purchased for $25 at the event.

Renowned pianist Bernie Katz brought musical joy to Detroit through his performances in local taverns, restaurants, hotels and the many stages of the city. He played with amateurs and professionals alike, including such greats as Itzhak Perlman, Judy Garland, Lena Horne, the Andrew Sisters and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. In 2004, the Katz Family created the Bernard Katz Memorial Scholarship in Piano or Voice, held in the WSU Department of Music, to honor his spirit, unmatched talent on the piano and his love for the human voice.