"I first experimented with this program format at retirement centers, but it has been so successful that I now include the "request" idea in all but the most formal  presentations.  The interactive nature provides an opportunity for attendees to hear some of their favorites from a wide range of repertoire - classical, Broadway, pop, or folk songs."

As the program attendees arrive, each is given a pencil/pen and lists of approximately 30 well-known songs, from which they are asked to indicate their favorites.  At the beginning of the program, I again encourage the audience to check-off their favorites on the sheets and to write down special requests not included on the list.

After completion of the more formal part of the program, there is a short intermission during which the accompanist and I tally the request selections.  The remainder of the program consists of performing as many requests as possible.  I adjust the request sheets periodically in accordance with feedback from program attendees (see sample program request sheet section).

A short spoken introduction to all non-familiar songs is given, including a brief translation of foreign texts.  For opera arias, I "set the stage" by briefly describing the dramatic circumstances and character(s) involved in the scene.

Except for the request sheet, there is no printed material for this program format - allowing freedom to adjust the program to the temperament of the audience.  If my impression is that the audience is eager for the request section, I shorten the German, Italian and French sections to two songs each.  If, on the other hand, the audience seems particularly interested in the formal portion, I can easily increase the selections in any group.

The time of this program varies according to audience and number of requests.  Generally, the program is less than one and one-half hours.