Acoustic guitarist at ease in ‘Morristown Onstage’ spotlight
This is the first in a series of profiles highlighting the finalists of Morristown Onstage, to be held Feb. 24 at the Mayo Performing Arts Center.
MORRISTOWN - James Gedeon loves to play for a crowd. Which is good, because he’s set to perform a challenging song by his favorite artist in front of a large one next month for Morristown Onstage.
Gedeon, 51, of New Vernon, will be performing “Shower the People” by James Taylor on acoustic guitar.
“I wanted to choose a song with a positive message that was both melodic and somewhat challenging to play,” said Gedeon, a music and business development professional for a post-production company based in the area.
The bigger and more interested the crowd, the better, according to Gedeon.
“I'm most at ease and myself when I'm performing for a captive audience,” he said. “I'm hoping that will be apparent during the show.”
Gedeon has been playing guitar for more than 30 years and is working on a new collection of original songs he hopes to release this summer, followed by an acoustic Christmas album this holiday season.
“It looks to be a busy year ahead,” he said.
Leading up to the show, Gedeon plans to practice, take care of his voice, and rest.
If he wins, the prize money will go right into his daughter’s college fund. But it’s not why he’s looking forward to the show.
“Just the opportunity to be on the stage that night in front of so many people at once is a victory of sorts,” Gedeon said. “Anything beyond that is a bonus.”
Go to http://artistecard.com/jamesgedeon to learn more about Gedeon and his music.
Staff Writer Michael Izzo: 973-713-5194;mizzo@GannettNJ.com
Morristown Onstage
What: A show featuring the best amateur talent from Morristown, Morris Township and Morris Plains, presented by and benefiting the Morris Educational Foundation.
When: Wednesday, Feb. 24
Where: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St. in Morristown.
Tickets: On sale to the general public on Feb. 1. Prices range from $25 to $75. For information, call MPAC at 973-539-8008 or visit www.mayoarts.org.