If a name was synonymous with a life of vocal music it would be Dwaine Price. Hundreds of people gathered today as well as last evening to celebrate a life lived – yes entwined with music, but more significantly in the lives of people. From high school choirs, barber shop, church music, countless other musical acitivities and private vocal lessons, Dwaine lived and breathed singing. It was in the latter part of Dwaine’s vocation that I had most of my contact when he would bring by his vocal students’ recital music or progress recordings so we could make a finished product for his clients.
I actually received the news of his death from the family of a young Spanish women I referred to Dwaine. Her family thought so highly of him during the time he provided lessons and were obviously more than glad to honor him at his visitation. I am aware of three Tesco Productions’ clients that had worked with Dwaine over the years and they all thought the world of him. Yes they learned technique, style, diction and expression but the over-riding influence always came back to the person himself. Why was this? Well as stated by the preacher this afternoon, Dwaine did everything out of a grateful heart to the One he knew he owed everything – particularly God’s gift of redemption. Penned over 100 years ago and sung today as one of several songs are these words, “I love to tell the story, ’twill be my theme in glory To tell the old, old story of Jesus and His love.” Dwaine, you’re missed by many, but heaven certainly has another ringing voice in its never-ending anthem of praise.
Wow!