
The
Artist
Shelton Becton
Sunday, November 7, 2004

Shelton Becton is an
accomplished pianist, vocalist and composer, and is well versed in
piano, pipe organ, electronic organ, and synthesizer. His range as
composer, arranger, performer and orchestrator stretches from contemporary
vocal ensembles to symphony orchestra.
He was born in North Carolina and his
future was decided from the age of 4 when he fell in love with the piano,
which he taught himself to play. He attended Howard University and graduated
summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Music in piano performance.
He has served as music director for
such notables as Judy Collins and Patti Austin, and is presently music
director for Roberta Flack, Phylicia Rashad, and Roz Ryan of TV's
"The Andersons."
Shelton's vocal accomplishments
are in a multitude of genres. Singing pop, urban contemporary, classical,
country and gospel styles are one of the selling features of his vocal
agility. His rich resonant quality has been featured in commercials
for General Mills, Kodak and General Motors, to name a few. Shelton's
vocals have also graced recordings by Vanessa Williams and Celine Dion.
His signature performance style has
been commissioned by Anita Baker, Billy Preston, Bette Midler, Rickie
Lee Jones, and Wintley Phipps. Other recording credits include Judy
Collins' "The Times of Our Lives," Noel Pointer's
"Calling," Frankie Knuckles' "Beyond the Mix,"
and Patti Austin's "Love is Gonna Getcha" and "Live,"
and Roberta Flack's "Christmas Album."
His compositions have been performed
by the Moorehouse and Spellman Choirs, the Riverside Inspirational Choir,
the cast of "Three Mo' Tenors," and the Washington Choral
Arts Society.
He was commissioned to arrange the spiritual
"Great Day" for the Negro Spiritual Scholarship Foundation
of Orlando, Florida. His spirituals have been recorded by Metropolitan
Opera star Denyce Graves.
He performed gospel music for the opening
of Lincoln Center's "House of Praise" in the summer of
1999. His Broadway credits include conducting productions of "The
Wiz" and "Ain't Misbehavin'." Most recently
he served as conductor and music director for the Christmas production
of "Nativity: A Life Story."
Shelton Becton's excitement and
respect for his craft, his talent and blessings are strongly linked
with his spiritual upbringing. Shelton continues to foster his growth
at every available opportunity, always striving for excellence.
Childcare
provided during each concert.
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