Legendary pianist Roger Williams, known as the “Pianist to the Presidents,” is pressing current contenders for the White House to address the issue of music and arts education in the schools.

 “The dearth of music and arts education in our nation’s schools is a black mark on our education system.  It is our responsibility in the country to give our children a well rounded education which must include the cultural arts.  Studies have shown the great benefits that music education has on young people,” wrote Williams to all sixteen Presidential candidates.

 Williams, who has performed for nine US Presidents, is a national leader in the cause to return music education to the public schools.

 “I am going to post all of the candidates’ answers on my web-site at www.rogerwilliamsnow.com.  I will also be drawing attention to those candidates who do not respond to this sorely neglected issue,” said Williams.

 Williams will again perform his annual piano marathon to raise public awareness for music education.  The annual marathon will take place on his 84^th birthday, October 1, 2008, at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library in Independence, Missouri.

 Billboard Magazine crowned Roger as the top selling piano recording artist in history.  He has 18 gold and platinum albums to his credit.  His top charting single Autumn Leaves still stands as the greatest selling piano recording of all time.

 

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