A music legend is set to receive a tremendous recognition at an upcoming event.
Dino Kartsonakis, a local resident and a legendary entertainer, will be presented with the Branson Living Legend Award during the upcoming Terry Music Awards.
Dino will also perform one of his signature piano pieces during the spectacular awards event.
A truly talented and gifted musician, Dino is best known for his exquisite arrangements of religious music for piano. One of the finest pianists of all time, Dino began playing his grandmother's piano at the tender age of three, developing a love and passion for the instrument. His formal training on piano at the King's College and later Julliard School of Music led to a long-time career doing what he most loves.
In the early 1970s Dino performed as pianist for evangelist Kathryn Kuhlman, before stepping out on his own. Dino's music had allowed him to travel extensively, performing worldwide at many of the world's most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall. He has worked with many evangelists throughout his career, notably Paul Crouch of Trinity Broadcasting Network, and former PTL leaders Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker.
For three decades, Dino has been a Branson mainstay, formerly headlining his own show in the music mecca. His was one of the most popular Christmas shows in the area, beloved by visitors and locals alike, and motorcoach groups flocked to the theater to be mesmerized by the piano virtuoso.
Dino was a driving force in extending the Branson tourism season, by performing extravagant Christmas shows during the months of November and December, attracting thousands of visitors to the area in the early 1990s.
Dino, a Grammy award-winning artist, describes his musical style as "combining the classical with the sacred."
Said Terry Beene, founder of The Terry Awards, "We are so honored to have Dino perform at the 46th Annual Terry Awards. He will bring so much class to our show, along with Jesus!"
Dino is in great company in receiving the Branson Living Legend Award. Former recipients of the prestigious honor include Clay Cooper, Doug Gabriel, Dean Z, Barbara Fairchild, Mickey Gilley, Johnny Lee and Rick Thomas, just to name a few.
Dino invites everyone to attend the Terry Awards on Sunday, September 29. It will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see Dino perform and receive his special honor, as well as the night's other award winners and performers.
The Branson Terry Awards are set for Sunday, September 29, beginning at 2 p.m., at the Hughes Brothers Theater. For tickets, call All Access Branson at 417-332-2121.
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