Musical director Fayne has high hopes for all involved with show

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2006 | 7:34 a.m.

Bill Fayne, Clint Holmes' musical director for more than 30 years, probably would have been happy if the show at Harrah's had continued indefinitely.

"I loved the show and the band," he said. "We made great music for 6 1/2 years, and we grew every year - we stretched out. On that level the show's closing was sad."

But, Broadway beckons, maybe, and that took away some of the sting.

For the past two years, Fayne has been working on a musical with Holmes, whom he met at the State University of New York at Fredonia in 1964.

In addition to his work with Holmes, he produces a group called the Las Vegas Tenors, which includes Fayne, Mark Giovi, Bobby Black and Teddy Davey. Sometimes all four are together, sometimes only three, depending on work schedules. Deep into the musical he and Holmes have created, Fayne isn't always able to perform the gigs with the Tenors.

The Tenors started out as a lark a couple of years ago, but the group is so good that it has turned into a cottage industry as members get offers to perform all over town and even out of town. They will be at the Suncoast four Mondays in November.

"We may have a three-month gig in Atlantic City," Fayne said. "It has really blossomed."

Now that the Harrah's gig has ended, Fayne says his only real concern is the talented group of musicians he worked with for so long.

"I do have concern about their futures," he said. "At least the immediate future.

"You know you get into a comfort zone, financially, and for a lot it will be difficult for awhile. They'll have to pick up engagements here and there, but they are the best and I think they will all catch on."

Several already have gigs. A couple will join the musical.

"The closing was certainly life-changing for everyone, for all of us," Fayne said. "There is always that uncertainty."