Frankly – Just Between Us: My Life Conducting Frank Sinatra’s Music
Frankly - Just Between Us: My Life Conducting Frank Sinatra's Music
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Product Description
Sinatra's conductor reveals what it's like to work for legendary singers Frankly - Just Between Us, is an entertaining and insightful behind-the-scenes look at the world of playing piano and conducting for Frank Sinatra and other contemporary music legends. This book chronicles the illustrious career of Vincent Falcone from his days at Syracuse University and tuning pianos and performing casual dates in Las Vegas, to playing piano and conducting for music icon Sinatra during the apex of his career. Falcone also played for such music greats as Andy Williams, Jack Jones, Sammy Davis Jr., Jerry Lewis, the McGuire Sisters, Tony Bennett, Connie Francis, Paul Anka, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, and many others. Frankly contains many great stories about playing and conducting for some larger-than-life music personalities of the '70s, '80s and today, and the highs and lows of playing for this caliber of entertainment.
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Rating
This a very enjoyable, quick read that mostly deals with Vincent Falcone’s years as pianist and/or arranger for Frank Sinatra. There are stories on other entertainers as well (more on that later) and some great pictures. I only wish the book was longer!
There is one factual error in the book I feel compelled to comment on. In his chapter “Memorable Perfomers” Falcone writes about Dean Martin, and how in 1981, following the death of his son, Martin was too broken up to perform at the Reagan inauguration. Well, the fact is, Dean’s son, Dean Paul, died in a tragic plane crash in 1987. According to Deana Martin, in her book on her famous faher, it was Dean’s manager and dear friend, Mack Gray who passed away after a short illness in 1981 and that is why Dean did not perform at the inauguration. It is surprising to me that such an error would make it to the final printing.
Other than that, there is much to recommend about this book.
Rating
I loved this book!! This is a great book about Frank Sinatra written by someone who worked with him and really knew him. Lots of great stories about Mr. S. and other entertainers. I found myself also enjoying reading about Vincent’s life. I found his success story and positive attitude really inspiring. This book was so enjoyable to read that I started slowing down because I didn’t want it to end. If you want to read a great book from someone who was really there — then get this book right away!! Thanks, Vincent!
Rating
This book by Vincent Falcone is not just about his association with Frank Sinatra. It’s about a guy who’s passion for music and the mastery of his craft bring him to the top of the heap, that is, becoming the musical conductor for “The Chairman of the Board”. I enjoyed this book because it’s the story of a humble man who followed his dream but always kept his feet firmly planted on the ground. I came away admiring Mr. Falcone’s determination. His stories about Mr. S were insightful, entertaining and poignant. I particularly enjoyed his stories about the bandmembers. This book was an easy read-direct and full of inside information, such as Mr. S’s backstage requirements.
Rating
I was sent an original galley of this book and I can tell you first hand, this book is great reading. It’s not just about playing piano for the Chairman of the Board, but about following your dream. I loved the stories about Frank, Buddy Hackett, Steve & Eydie, Milton Berle, Sammy Davis…the list is almost endless. But this book is not about the days of the Rat Pack and the mob, this is the golden age of Sinatra by his pianist and conductor from the side of the stage most people never get to see. And it proves that if you want something bad enough, there is always a way to get it. I recommend this book to anyone, particularly those aspiring to reach their goal. I agree with the impressive endorsements by Tony Bennett, Tony Danza, Steve Lawrence and Robert Goulet. The pictures are terrific as well.
Rating
I was fortunate to get an advance copy of this book. It is a fun book to read. It’s a look at a latter-day Frank Sinatra from in back of the stage and in front of the curtains, as seen by his pianist and conductor Vince Falcone, but it doesn’t stop there. It talks about all the other music legends Vince has played for, the highs and the lows and the stories that go with them. It also shows the hard work needed to achieve success in the music industry today. The Tony Bennett and Tony Danza endorsements are right. “Even if you’re not in the music business, you will love this book”. I did.
Rating
It is a pleasure to read a book about Frank Sinatra by an intimate who is not seeking to make money on the strength of the name. These are the memories of an obviously talented musician who happened to be propelled from the lounges of the Las Vegas casinos to travelling and working with and for the finest popular singer of the 20th century. No great revelations here but then no muckraking either. Mt Falcone went on to work with most of the other remaining artists in this field of music and his story was worth telling and worth reading.
Rating
Frankly – Just Between Us is a fantastic book. I read the whole thing in two days. I could barely put it down. It’s one of the best insights into not only Vincent Falcone, but also one of the best insights into Frank Sinatra. Vincent Falcone made a long, tough journey to become not only one of the finest and most respected musicians and conductors in the music business, but he also became one of Frank’s most trusted friends, employees, confidantes and advisors. Vincent became like a son to him. They shared a very special bond, but there were some down times as well. Through everything, though, I believe they really did love each other like a father and son. This is a wonderful book that is a must-have for any Frank Sinatra fan.
Rating
This book is an absolute must for all fans of Frank Sinatra. It is full of fascinating behind the scenes glimpses of the legendary entertainer, many of which will likely surprise you. The story is told in a voice and style that made me feel I was right there along for the wild rollercoaster ride that brought a young unknown from Syracuse N.Y. to the pinnacle of his profession: touring the world with The Chairman of the Board. There are also some very funny anecdotes involving comedians. Plus, the author offers a number of vauable insights into what it takes to carve out a successful career in music, regardless of the era. One of the most enjoyable reads I’ve ever had. I’m giving the book as gifts.
Rating
Great book, Vincent. As a former Syracusan, and the daughter of your first music teacher, Jane Notarthomas, I was thoroughly touched to read how she was one of the influences in your life. She was always so very proud of you. Thanks for sharing the memories and giving us an inside look at Frank.
Rita Schiano,”Jane’s daughter” and author of “Painting the Invisible Man.”
Rating
This book is a great read for Sinatra fans. Lots of little tidbits you probably have never read before and I speak as a reader and owner of just about every book ever written on him. Highly recommended.