A New York policeman who became famous for singing at funerals and commemorations after the terrorist attack on New York on September 11, 2001, will sing for the families of the Pike River miners killed last month and the West Coast community.
Tenor Daniel Rodriguez and his wife, New Zealand soprano Marla Kavanaugh, will perform at a free concert in Greymouth's Holy Trinity Church on January 22.
The line-up also Marla's identical twin, Marissa, her mother, former Mobil Song Quest winner, Kathi Craig, TV actress and singer, McLeod's Daughters actress Lisa Chappell and popular vocalist, Will Martin.
All the artists are contributing their services free to grieving friends and family of the 29 miners who died in the Pike River coal mine in November.
They will also bring greetings from former New York mayor, Rudy Giuliani, which they hope to present to Greymouth Mayor, Tony Kokshoorn.
Rodriguez was an NYPD officer with a glorious singing voice who was caught up in the events of September 11.
He survived the terrorist attacks and sang at the funerals of more than 100 police and fire brigade colleagues as well as a special televised remembrance ceremony at Yankee Stadium which followed 9/11.
Rodriguez studied with Placido Domingo, one of the Three Tenors, and now sings throughout America and Europe.
Daniel Rodriguez performs You Raise Me Up
- NZPA
