Chances are you've never heard of Gloria DeNard. Don't feel embarrassed about it, neither had I and nor, I guess, had many this side of the East River until her obituary appeared in the New York Times. The name of her son, the drummer Kenwood Dennard (curiously spelled differently to that of his mother, the reason is explained in the NYT obituary) who has worked with many bands across the genres including Miles, Sting, Jaco and Gil Evans may be more familiar.
Although singing professionally for many years (a graduate of Julliard) Gloria's true passion lay in music teaching. To this end she formed the Manna House Workshops, a music school set in one of East Harlem's toughest precincts, and continued working there to within a week of her death on May 30 aged 93.
To say "sadly missed" when I've only just discovered her may seem somewhat facetious but, after reading about her, I feel I've known her all my life and in many ways I have through those special few who are not only able to perform but also possess the gift that enables them to share their knowledge.
Gloria DeNard undoubtedly had that gift - may she Rest In Peace.
Lance.
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