By admin 
Introduction
Barry Manilow to Honor Local Music Teacher as He Returns to Cleveland
Legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow is preparing to return to Northeast Ohio this summer for what could be one of his final major arena tours, and he has a heartwarming twist planned for his Cleveland audience. In addition to performing some of his greatest hits, Manilow will pay tribute to a very special local music teacher, shining a spotlight on those who inspire the next generation of musicians.
Manilow, whose career spans more than six decades, shows no signs of slowing down at age 81. With over 85 million records sold worldwide, he remains one of the best-selling artists of all time. Yet, for Manilow, every concert is more than just a performance—it’s about creating an emotional connection. “I really am just about feelings,” he explains. “If you can’t feel something with my music or even with me standing there, I’m not doing my job right.”
The Cleveland stop, set for Thursday, June 5th at Rocket Arena, will be particularly special. As part of his ongoing efforts to celebrate music educators through the Manilow Music Project, the singer has organized a contest in which students across each tour city can vote for their favorite music teacher. The winning teacher, along with their family and friends, will be invited to the show and introduced live from the audience—a moment guaranteed to elicit cheers and standing ovations.
This initiative stems from a deeply personal inspiration. Seventeen years ago, a friend asked Manilow to help secure a saxophone for his daughter when her high school was running low on instruments. That small gesture sparked the creation of the Manilow Music Project, which has since distributed approximately $10 million in instruments to schools across the United States. “It’s such a moving moment,” Manilow says of honoring music teachers. “The audience won’t stop applauding them—it’s wonderful. I look forward to it every night.”
Beyond celebrating teachers, Manilow continues to bring energy and passion to the stage that belies his age. Despite jokingly claiming he’s 100, he remains vigorous and committed to delivering unforgettable performances. His shows often feature fan favorites that have become earworms for generations, ensuring the crowd is singing along and fully immersed in the experience.
Following his Cleveland performance, Manilow will continue his tour and is also preparing to release a new album this summer, featuring original pop songs he has written and compiled over his career. Fans eager to participate in the local teacher contest can vote at manilowmusicproject.org until the end of April, adding an interactive and meaningful element to his upcoming performances.
For a musician whose legacy is built on timeless melodies, emotional resonance, and generosity, Manilow’s return to Cleveland promises more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of music, mentorship, and the enduring power of community.