For New Jersey based Jonathon Furer, it came a few years ago in seventh grade, at a school talent show. The classically trained 15 year old singer, songwriter, pianist and saxophonist was already teaching piano to younger students. He first played Scott Joplin’s classic rag “The Entertainer” at age six and was introduced to the music of Billy Joel and Elton John by family members. He knew he liked all different kinds of music, but he wasn’t sure about his abilities as a performer. Furer took the stage and for the next five minutes captivated the audience with a powerhouse rendition of Joel’s classic Piano Man, even playing the trademark harmonica fills while playing the keys. The crowd gave him a rousing standing O—and nothing has ever been the same since.
“It was the greatest five minutes of my life,” Furer says. “I was in shock, and it’s hard to describe what it is about the experience that makes it so incredible. It’s not just the rush, but more about the deep connection with the audience. It just felt very liberating, like when I’m performing, that’s when I am most connected with the music. I knew I wanted to spend my life doing this.”
Furer is well on his way. In addition to performing with the Cranford High School jazz band and in other settings related to the academic setting, Furer has played gigs at numerous clubs, benefit concerts, restaurants and private events. Having entertained at such events as Night With the Stars for the local Ronald McDonald House and a talent show to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, he has also become a true musical philanthropist. As a way of giving back to his community, he also enjoys playing and singing at senior citizen centers, local hospitals and at various Autism Walks. While maintaining good grades, and actively involved with YMCA Model United Nations and Youth & Government, the high school junior has also built a clientele of 24 piano students, creating individual curriculums for children ranging in age from five to 17.
Read more: asianjournal.com
