As the longtime cabaret backers Adela and Larry Elow approached their 90s, their thoughts turned to today’s teenagers and what the Great American Songbook means to their future — whether they know it or not. “Most of them aren’t aware of this music, because their parents are young people, too,” said Adela. Larry, a jazz pianist and composer in his earlier years, was more blunt. This year marked the third Adela and Larry Elow American Songbook High School Competition — and, because of Covid-19, the first to be held online for the 1st Virtual Cabaret Convention. Only students from New York City public performing arts schools requiring auditions were eligible, and this year the winner and finalists are all women.

Source: New York Times October 21, 2020 21:22 UTC