Lenox leave audience wanting more

LANCASTER – It was quite a day for Ohio when Dwight Lenox became a Buckeye.

From New York by way of Los Angeles, he's become a treasure on the local scene as a musician and entertainer.

Selling out both Monday night shows might be a festival first, and the program, dubbed "Brown Eyes Does Old Blue Eyes," was put together after Lenox, in his own words, "finally got it."

Realizing the scope and diversity of Frank Sinatra's work, Lenox also performed a variety of music by many singers as a tribute to Sinatra.

A gifted singer and entertainer, Lenox moved through the program easily, putting himself into the style of each selection instantly, and the audience warmed to him quickly. Although he is frequently compared with many giants in the industry, Lenox is truly unique.

The trio supported him throughout, and it was nice to see Lancaster native Terry Douds playing bass in the group. Although the trio did its part, there was no doubt that this amazing voice carried the show, bringing the audience to their feet several times.

The intimacy of the ballroom at the Lodge in Lancaster is a great venue for a production like this; it allowed Lenox to converse easily with an audience that seemed receptive to his relaxed style, and could hear and enjoy.

Several highlights stand out, but "My Funny Valentine" was a show-stopper and my favorite for the evening. Exhibiting flawless pitch and amazing flexibility and range, the emotion he was able to create and communicate showed his artistic depth.

The rendition was deserving of any stage, anywhere, and so powerful that it took both the performer and audience a moment to recover.

I suppose it's the teacher in me, but I couldn't help thinking how beneficial it would have been for young singers to have heard this performance. So much of what makes a true professional was exhibited in this performance that it would have been a clinic.

The preparation was obvious, and Lenox is a master of microphone technique, getting the exactly quality that he wants in his voice out to the audience, something missing in many young singers.

I think Sinatra himself would have enjoyed "One More for the Road," "It Was a Very Good Year" and the obligatory "New York, New York," which brought an appreciative audience to their feet one more time.

Robert Trocchia is the former director of the Lancaster Chorale.