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heartestimonials

For Lord, Write My Name: From Slavery to Freedom: The Gospel and African American Experience in Spirituals…

“It’s been five days since I saw Lord Write My Name performed by Keith Spencer and accompanied by Peter Hilliard. I’ve been trying to come up with the correct words to describe this performance. I’ve decided that there are no words to adequately describe what took place. It needs to be experienced by going to see this event and hearing the passion and emotions that are expressed by Keith Spencer, both in readings and song.

If you get the opportunity to see this and hear it for yourself, do not delay. I left that venue, it changed my life forever. To say thanks to these men, would not be enough. They are truly walking examples with the light of God burning within them. They have a story to tell, don’t miss it!”

Bobbie Powell, Chairperson
The Cathedral Arts Series at Trinity

For The Robeson Songbook: A Negro Spiritual and Gospel Celebration of the Music of Paul Robeson…

“I shall take my voice wherever there are those who want to hear the melody of freedom or the words that might inspire hope and courage in the face of fear. My weapons are peaceful, for it is only by peace that peace can be attained. The song of freedom must prevail. – Paul Robeson”

The Riverfront Historical Society could not have chosen a more impressive artist than Keith Spencer or a more notable personage than Paul Robeson to help us commemorate Juneteenth, June 19, 1865, the date when President Lincoln declared that “all men are free…” thus, releasing the last remaining enslaved Americans from bondage. With The Paul Robeson Songbook: A Negro Spiritual and Gospel Celebration of the Music of Paul Robeson, Keith Spencer brings to life the deeply felt emotions of an encumbered, trodden people, who manage to hold fast to their intensely held faith, hope, and courage, despite the fear and obstacles they faced day after day, decade after decade. Spencer’s beautiful, captivating voice and his theatrical talent allow him to move easily from the painful yearnings of “Steal Away” and “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child”, to the reverence of “Give Me Jesus” and “There is a Balm in Gilead”, to the assured jubilance of “If I Got My Ticket” and “Counting My Blessings”.

Spencer’s deeply melodic and musically expressive, resonant voice filled our sanctuary and we were transported to a different time. Many in our audience commented about how they were moved to tears, as they rejoiced in hearing the gospel and spiritual selections sung in the churches of their childhood and by beloved relatives of past generations. They were equally complimentary of the exquisite performances of Mark Yurkanin, on piano, and Claudia Pellegrini, on violin, who provided the perfect accompaniment and were in perfect step with Spencer’s brilliant execution of the Robeson Songbook. This repertoire embodies the sentiment of Robeson’s quote listed above. Many thanks to Keith Spencer for creating this program, thus assuring Paul Robeson’s dream that, “The song of freedom must prevail.”

Audrey Henry, M.D., Juneteenth Coordinator
Riverfront Historical Society

For The Robeson Songbook: A Negro Spiritual and Gospel Celebration of the Music of Paul Robeson…

“Keith Spencer’s performance of the Robeson Songbook was a highlight among the many musical events that have been offered over the years at Trinity. The church was filled with people who were enthralled from beginning to end with Keith’s singing and story telling as well as with the infectious energy of the songs themselves. He and his musical partners Peter Hilliard and Claudia Pellegrini were an exceptionally tight ensemble, and their music was at turns thrilling, moving, beautiful, inspiring, and thought-provoking, and often all of these things at once. The result was a pair of standing ovations and a deeply satisfied audience. It was the perfect way to celebrate Black History Month. We look forward to having Keith back at some point in the future!”

Vernon Williams, Director of Music
Trinity Episcopal Church, Moorestown, NJ

“Keith Spencer is a supremely talented performer whose gorgeous baritone and fresh interpretation of the music of stage and film is a multi-talented delight, with a genuine stage “presence” that perennially charms Pennswood Village audiences. Over the past several years, Mr. Spencer’s performances have received uniformly enthusiastic responses and his annual appearance on our stage is an eagerly awaited event. He brings stylish sophistication or ardent warmth to his interpretation of the entire Broadway canon, extending from the best-known Rodgers & Hammerstein classics to lesser-known gems by Lerner & Loewe, Comden & Green, or Kander & Ebb. Keith Spencer is a true showman in the best professional sense of the term, always with a dash of humor and personal insight as he establishes the thematic context in which each song is presented. He can bring you to tears or trigger laughter with renditions that are an extension of his uniquely expressive style. Mr. Spencer’s performances are an art form consisting of songs (and their stories) presented in fresh and invariably fascinating ways by this master of the performing arts.”

John B. Means, Ph.D., Performances Chair
Pennswood Village, Newtown, PA

“As the Life Engagement Coordinator at Brittany Pointe Estates in Lansdale, PA, the responsibility falls on me to book quality entertainment once a week for each year. Though I am only a year into my current position, I have worked at this large community for over a dozen years. In all that time, I have never heard such rave reviews from my residents as I did this past week when Keith Spencer performed here. “He is the best thing to ever hit our stage!”, “Bring him back soon!”, “We would have given him more than just two standing ovations, but he kept on singing and we wanted to hear him!” These are just a few of the many comments I heard. Keith has a talent that is so genuine and so rare and he is gracious enough to share it with the world. His love of performing is quite evident. He gives his all, no matter the size of the venue, and the performance that results is nothing short of magnificent. His blend of stories, introductions and choice of songs captivated the audience here and his voice was nothing short of mesmerizing. I cannot stress enough how wonderful it was to host Keith Spencer. I can whole-heartedly recommend him to any community or any venue. This man is a treasure.”

Terry Alburger, Life Engagement Coordinator
Brittany Pointe Estates, Lansdale PA

“I have only been in my current position for four months and I’ve never heard so many people raving about anyone other than Keith Spencer. His first performance at Normandy Farms Estates was [in February of this year] and since then residents can’t seem to get enough. They come into my office at least twice a week asking me “Is Keith coming back” … “you’re bringing him, back right?” I always respond back “yes” and then give them the next performance date. I have received notes that state “Keith and Owen were outstanding! Everyone was spellbound- Hope he comes again!”, “Best Thursday night concert we ever had and I’ve been here 18 years”. Keith has an amazing gift and love for music that is very evident in every performance. I am hoping that maybe one day we can get him and his lovely wife to do a duet for us. For anyone reading this if you haven’t booked him yet you should!”

Louis Senat, Life Engagement Coordinator
Normandy Farms Estates, Blue Bell, PA

For The Robeson Songbook: A Negro Spiritual and Gospel Celebration of the Music of Paul Robeson…

“As the Director of the Trenton City Museum, our events strive to satisfy a cross section of ages and interests in the Capital City and its surround. Mr. Spencer’s visit to our museum and his concert on our site was a performance that touched every visitor with a lasting and transcendent experience. Many commented to me that they felt a true connection to the songs and to the artist. All felt soothed and uplifted in an experience they will not forget. All were drawn into the embrace of his songs, while Mr. Spencer created an intimate ambiance and personal connection with every attendee that belied the large room of his performance. We had young school age children waiting in line to have a photo taken with him after the performance. That spoke to me on many levels as this music and the experience had no age limitations. Our older guests sang, tapped their feet and hummed, while some were moved with emotion.

I certainly look forward to my next experience with Keith Spencer as I am sure there will be one! The afternoon flew by, but the inspiration will last forever.”

Donna Carcaci Rhodes, Director, Trenton City Museum

“Keith was a huge success at our Washington Crossing Inn surprise birthday party. Over 60 guests were entertained with his beautiful voice, warm personality and polished stage presence. Working with us to choose the perfect genre of songs – he had the audience captivated from the moment he began singing to the moment he left the microphone. Over and over we heard from friends what a marvelous performance he gave and how much they enjoyed being there.”

Ann & Akos Swierkiewicz

For We Shall Not Be Moved: A Tribute to the Music of the Civil Rights Era…

“A capacity audience thoroughly enjoyed Keith Spencer’s performance, We Shall Not Be Moved!, at the Mercer Museum. His strong vocals, poignant readings and recitations, and compelling stage presence powerfully evoked the struggles, triumphs and tragedies of the Civil Rights Era. Everyone left the inspirational concert with the music of the era ringing  in their ears!”

Cory Amsler, Vice President, Collections and Interpretation, Mercer Museum/Bucks County Historical Society

“It was just one of those nights, just one of those fabulous nights…” The lyrics describe the evening perfectly. With his versatile voice ranging from a rich, deep baritone to falsetto, Keith Spencer…wowed a filled-to-capacity room with Broadway hits and old favorites… [he] shared his immense talent with a spellbound audience and received a standing ovation.

Barbara Blumberg and Susan Tobin, Co-Chairs, Shady Brook Social Committee

For Paul Robeson’s Birthday Celebration Event hosted by Paul Robeson House of Princeton…

“We were honored to have your presentation of the Robeson repertoire as a highlight of the event. We are receiving many comments and accolades about your presentation of the honoree’s music with clarity, supreme artistry, dignity and style. It was clearly a standout among other performances we have witnessed (including some Princeton attendees who attended an actual program by the master).  We thank you and look forward to an encore performance soon! ”

Ben Colbert, for the Paul Robeson House of Princeton

For For Those Who Know the Score: A Salute to Songs from the Stage and Screen…

“[It] proved to be a most special afternoon at Mercer Oaks beautiful ballroom. Pearson Church’s Young at Heart group enjoyed a wonderful dinner followed by the most fabulous performance by Keith Spencer we have ever experienced. Our group has seen Keith perform at the Bristol Riverside Theatre for many years, but this day topped the charts! Everyone was in awe of his phenomenal voice range and presence. His wonderful, unpretentious personality with the audience made for a super interaction with our group. It is this magical personality, coupled with his incomparable voice and professional appearance, which engaged each one of us to him. His carefully chosen musical pieces and explicit explanation of them added to our interest. We would not hesitate to ask him to join another of our activities in the future. It cannot happen too soon!”

Joanne Hewitt, Committee Chair, Pearson Young at Heart 

“The residents of Rydal Park fill the Performing Arts Center to overflowing whenever Keith Spencer sings.  His magical personality and thoughtfully chosen music, delivered in his beautiful baritone voice, make him a popular and beloved performer here.”

MM Harris, Chair, Residents Association Program Committee,
Rydal Park, A Presby’s Inspired Life Community

“WOW!!! What a night! Keith Spencer entertained the residents of Delancey Court at our annual Fall Dinner at Washington Crossing Inn. He was amazing! Everyone enjoyed his selection of songs and warm personality. We were mesmerized by his powerful vocals and charming presence. His performance was professional as well as thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining. We look forward to inviting him again in the future.”

Flossie Porter for the Delancey Court Event Planning Committee

For We Shall Not Be Moved: A Tribute to the Music of the Civil Rights Era…

“Keith performed one of the most moving programs we have ever had here at Pine Run Community. The audience was mesmerized by his vocals and enjoyed his stories of the freedom movement.  People were drawn to the room where Keith was performing. Even if they weren’t planning on attending, they couldn’t help but come in and sit down to listen to this marvelous singer!!!”

Ceil Krajewski, Director of Life Enrichment
Pine Run Village, Doylestown, PA

For The Robeson Songbook: A Negro Spiritual and Gospel Celebration of the Music of Paul Robeson…

“The rich resonating sound of the dynamic Keith Spencer’s wonderful voice ignites the human spirit. His concert celebrating the life and legacy of Paul Robeson is not only entertaining but very educational.”

Petra Chesner Schlatter, Former CBS-TV producer and longtime journalist

For Broadway Spectacular: Keith Spencer in Concert…

“Keith is a phenomenal vocalist and a wonderful entertainer.  He performed to a sold out audience at Ann’s Choice in January of this year and as the 300 plus attendees left the performing arts center, they wanted to know when he would be returning!  He is a favorite of the Ann’s Choice residents and he has a very large fan club at the community.  Keith mesmerized our audience and we are eagerly awaiting his performance in the fall of this year!”

Susan Abtouche, Director of Philanthropy, Philanthropy Services
Ann’s Choice, An Erickson Living Community 

For For Those Who Know the Score: A Salute to Songs from the Stage and Screen…

“…What can I say? Keith was a big success at Centennial Station. His voice, personality and talent was above anything our community has seen. You could have heard a pin drop last night at Keith Spencer’s performance. At the end of the show everyone asked when he would be returning! …Again, It was a WOW of a night.”

Carol Pasquarello, Arts and Events Coordinator
Centennial Station

For It’s De-lovely! – An Evening with Cole Porter and Friends, featuring Amy Spencer, soprano…

“Keith Spencer and his lovely wife, Amy, performed at Ann’s Choice 14th annual fund raising event this September. The event was SOLD OUT in two weeks which has never occurred in previous years. Keith and Amy delighted our guests with solos and duets from the 1930’s and 1940’s. Couples in the audience were holding hands and singing along with this talented couple. At the conclusion of the performance, Keith and Amy received a standing ovation and they graciously spent additional time socializing with several guests. They are a special couple that demonstrates love for music, love for their audience, and love for each other. One comment from a resident was that the evening was “PERFECT”!”

Robin Kaufold, Philanthropy Manager
Ann’s Choice, An Erickson Living Community 

For For Those Who Know the Score: A Salute to Songs from the Stage and Screen…

“Mr. Spencer was our headliner performance for our annual black tie fundraiser at a senior retirement community.   In the 14 years that I have been doing this event, this is the FIRST AND ONLY TIME that a performer has received a standing ovation from the audience.   His heartfelt stories and amazing vocals kept the audience engaged and eager to hear more.  We look forward to having him back in the future.”

Kimberly Nelson, Director of Philanthropy,
Greenspring, An Erickson Living Community

For We Shall Not Be Moved: A Tribute to the Music of the Civil Rights Era…

“Keith Spencer was a wonderful addition to our Unplugged Sundays programming at the Michener Art Museum. He was very easy to work with both prior to and the day of the performance. His performance of We Shall Not be Moved! A Tribute to the Music of the Civil Rights Era was spectacular. His stage presence, moving voice, and poignant readings, along with Owen Robbins’ accompaniment moved our audience, who often sang and clapped along. We were thrilled to bring such a polished and stirring act to our families and visitors. Our almost 150 visitors gave Keith a standing ovation, and many stopped to thank us for bringing such a high caliber performer to our community.”

Andrea Thompson, Arts Education Manager
James A. Michener Art Museum