The Story of Ethan Bortnick

Ethan Bortnick is one inspiring individual with a true passion for music along with being an eye opener to the wonderful world of music. “At only nine-years-old, Ethan Bortnick is already achieving accomplishments that many musicians work towards for an entire career.” He is well known for mimicking any music he hears, whether on the radio or while listening to the popular Baby Einstein series. Ethan began learning how to play the piano at the early age of three. Currently at the age of nine along with a talent beyond his age, he has the ability to play almost any song by ear.

At the age of five, his talent was outstanding and was already starting to compose his own music. “Ethan appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in May of 2007, making his national television debut.  Since then, he has returned to the show three times as Leno’s guest, including an appearance in May 2009 where he presented Jay with a special gift – a song titled “The King of Late Night” which Ethan wrote as a tribute to the talk show host.  He has appeared on national shows on every major network including The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, The Martha Stewart Show and Yo Gabba Gabba.”

 Ethan has appeared in front of crowds as large as 20,000 people. He has also performed in concerts and televised specials both nationally and internationally. His first concert stage debut was opening for Nelly Furtado in Hollywood, FL in May 2007 after meeting her on the set of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has also taken the stage with both the Orlando and Naples Philharmonic Orchestras. He is currently the youngest piano soloist to ever perform with these ensembles. Through charity events and concerts, he has also taken the stage with legendary artists including Elton John, Natalie Cole, Smokey Robinson, Beyoncé, Reba McEntire, Gloria Gaynor and many more.

“On February 1, 2010, Ethan joined music’s biggest names as the youngest member of the all-star “We Are The World 25 For Haiti” line up.  Produced by Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie, the track featured superstars including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Kanye West and Miley Cyrus and made its debut during the opening ceremony of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.”

As one of the world’s youngest philanthropists, Ethan had made a name for himself along with using his talent to express his desire to help people, especially children. “By performing, inspiring and educating, he has helped raise millions of dollars for charities around the world.” These charities include the Miami Children’s Hospital, the Boys & Girls Club, the American Heart Association, the Starkey Hearing Foundation and many others.

Ethan is currently on the road with his show along with lighting up the stage in his first national headlining tour. He brings some of music’s biggest hits and classics to life for crowds both young and old in over 50 cities across the country. Ethan arrives in Orlando, Florida on Friday, March 4, 2011 at the Plaza Live Theatre, 425 North Bumby Ave., Orlando, FL. Doors open at 6:30pm with showtime at 7:30pm. Tickets are $29.50 plus service fees and can be purchased at the Plaza Live Theatre, online or by calling the box office at 407-228-1220.

Ethan is truly an inspiring person to me along with an amazing musician. True talent is hard to find at this age, but clearly this proves that it’s possible. Ever since I’ve seen Ethan on TV, I think he is beyond talented and can’t imagine where he’ll be further on in his career. My hopes are that Ethan’s story inspires more parents to want to make music a part of their children’s life. I am a true believer that music is one of the most important talents out there and is one that is repeatedly overlooked in schools. I believe music should be a top priority, and through music, anything is possible.

All information taken from Ethan Bortnick.

Boyce Avenue at The Plaza Theatre on Feb. 27th

Boyce Avenue, a Florida-based band popular for its strong acoustic roots and melodic rock sound, consists of the three brothers Alejandro, Fabian, and Daniel Manzano.

“In 2007, in an effort to share their music and ideas with the world, the band decided to start filming and posting videos on YouTube of their own songs and some of their favorite songs by other artists. Some of the first few videos they posted included acoustic versions of songs such as Justin Timberlake’s “LoveStoned”, Rihanna’s “Umbrella”, and Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida”, among many others. The videos began to resonate instantly with YouTube viewers.”

Boyce Avenue have been an inspiration to me since I’ve discovered them on YouTube. While studying to receive my masters in Entertainment Business, I’m always on the search for “Inspiring YouTube Stars.” They are that breath of fresh air and through their passion for music, they have recorded some of most creative and unique acoustic covers and mixes.

“Currently, the band is touring Europe and preparing its next nationwide headline tour of the United States. Launching with this U.S. summer tour, the band will remain on the road through the end of the year, with repeat touring in Europe, and plans to enter new international territories, including Canada, South America, Asia, and Australia.”

Boyce Avenue will be making an appearance in Orlando, Florida on February 27^th at 8p.m. at The Plaza Theatre, 425 N. Bumby Avenue, Orlando, FL, 32803. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online or through their box office at 407-228-1220. “The Plaza Theatre is Orlando’s premiere live concert venue offering a wide range of concerts, comedians, and cultural events. In the early 1990’s, the theater was converted into a live-performance hall which opened the doors for many new artists and talent, while also acting as the 3rd largest seated venue in Central Florida.” I’m really looking forward to this event and have already seen how excited others are on Facebook to see them live. It’s one thing watching your favorite artists on YouTube, but it’s always an experience of a lifetime to see them perform live. I am also a huge supporter the arts and appreciate what people like Boyce Avenue and The Plaza Theatre do to keep the entertainment and music industry alive. Feel free to check out further information and upcoming events at The Plaza Theatre HERE.

All information taken from Boyce Avenue and The Plaza Theatre.