Trish Foti Genco: Press

Singing Praises

The Plight of Haitian earthquake victims recently made an impact on three local contemporary Christian singers (Kitty Cleveland, Trish Foti Genco, and Lorraine Hess). To fulfill their desire to help those in need, sopranos Lorraine Hess, Kitty Cleveland, and Trish Foti Genco lifted their voices at the benefit concert 3 Sopranos, Praise to Raise on Thursday at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church in Metairie. Donations will be used to provide food for Haitian earthquake victims, organizers say.

Three local singers hold concert for Haiti relief
Its first collaboration for trio of voices

The plight of Haitian earthquake victims recently made an impact on three local contemporary Christian singers. To fulfill their desire to help those in need, sopranos Lorraine Hess, Kitty Cleveland and Trish Foti Genco knew exactly what to do.
The singing trio will lift their voices at the benefit concert, "3 Sopranos, Praise to Raise," on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church, 4317 Richland Ave., Metairie. The free concert will feature contemporary Catholic music to benefit Haitian relief.
Cash donations will be collected, and 100 percent of the money will be used to provide food for Haitian earthquake victims, organizers say.
The concert will be the first time the three popular recording artists have performed together. Each has performed with the other, but the three have never joined together on stage.
All three sensed the need to help the victims when the earthquake occurred in January. Hess said she felt helpless as news reports came in.
"When you can't do anything, then you have to do what you can do," said Hess. "And we could sing."
Hess, who will soon release her second compact disc titled "Child of God," knew that through music the trio could bring Christ to others and help their fellow human beings. As a Catholic singer and songwriter, as well as a music ministry director of Divine Mercy Parish in Kenner, she has used her talents in this way many times in the past.
Cleveland was excited when Hess contacted her about the concert.
"I loved the idea of collaborating with great singers, who do what I do, for such a worthy cause," said Cleveland.
Cleveland, a classically trained inspirational singer, has recorded seven CDs featuring such singles as "Eye of the Storm" and "Surrender." She also wrote and recorded the tune "In the Breaking of the Bread," which is a favorite when she performs at the annual Divine Mercy service held at St. Joseph Church.
Once the idea of a concert was agreed upon, the sopranos selected Croatian Relief Services to help disburse the money they will raise. Money collected through Croatian Relief Services will be used to benefit the victims directly. The non-profit organization, based in Fairfield, N.J., was formed in the early 1990s to provide relief for Croatian refugees and has grown into a global relief operation. The director, the Rev. Giordano Belanich, personally oversees the food distribution in Haiti and will attend the concert to show videos of the organization's operations in Haiti.
It has been more than five months since the earthquake, but Genco knows that now is the time when money is most needed. All three singers lived through Hurricane Katrina and saw the hardships that a natural disaster can cause innocent victims and the need for continued support for the recovery.
"After Katrina, there was a large outpouring (of donations) at first, but as time went on the donations fell off," Genco said. "We understand what the people of Haiti are going through and that they need our support now."
Genco, a Catholic recording artist whose rendition of "Ave Maria" is a favorite at local wedding ceremonies, acknowledges that it is a blessing to be able to use her talents to help the victims of a natural disaster.
The public is invited to attend the benefit concert. Anyone who is unable to attend but would like to support the Croatian Relief Services for the victims of the Haiti earthquake can donate online at www.croatianrelief.org.

Talented musicians featured at free concert series

Immaculate Conception Church kicked off its third year of free concerts for the public on All Saints Day.
Music director Trish Foti Genco coordinated an evening of sacred wedding music performed by local musicians Dreux Montegut on organ, Vance Woolf on trumpet, Tom Schissler on violin, Anne Chabreck on flute and Karen Ray on cello.
“You can’t beat the quality of the musicians,” said Jesuit Father Stephen Sauer, Immaculate Conception pastor and series host. Several have played with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, and Genco sings locally.
For the benefit of the bridesto-be and her family, Genco selected music utilizing a combination of instruments and voice. This gave brides– several making notes on their programs – an idea of what to expect in sound, depending on the musicians selected and their budget. The standard musician fee is $300 a person.
Genco emceed the program, introducing appropriate selections for all parts of a nuptial Mass – from the opening prayer, prelude music, processionals, music for the liturgy of the word, the liturgy of the Eucharist, preparation of the gifts and Communion, devotionals and recessionals – and gave tips on learning the regulations for music in a church, what to discuss with cantors and how to coordinate music with readings.
“We begin our celebration with a congregational hymn,” Genco said. “You want to pick something familiar to you and those gathered at your wedding; something that everybody can participate in. It’s a wonderful way to begin your celebration.”
Trust your music director
She implored the audience to trust the recommendations of each church’s music director. Every church has different acoustics and sound systems, and every director is accustomed to working successfully with particular musicians.
She said that sacred music is what’s suitable at Catholic weddings; non-sacred music can wait until the reception. From the opening notes, music should set a tone of prayer.
“We want to make sure the bride understands that the center of their service should be God,” she said. “The bride should understand how music fits and complements the liturgy.”
Genco and other music directors try to use wedding music as a complement to what couples have selected for liturgical readings.
“Each wedding has a theme or message, and we try to coordinate the songs with the theme so when people leave, they have a sense of who you are (as a couple),” she said.
Sacred wedding music is always one of the offerings at the free concerts, Genco said. Past series have included Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra musicians, opera singers and others. Tentative future concerts will include national Catholic artists, a gospel choir and classical guitarist.
“It’s wonderful,” audience member Darlyn Ramirez said of the concerts. “I love the trumpets, the flutes and all of it. Trish is very talented.”
Father Sauer is happy to host the varied concert series. He believes that the church has always been a patron of the arts.
“Music and art speak to the soul,” he said. “Anything of beauty is of God. This is one thing that we can give this city. Come hear and experience beauty – beauty architecturally and musically.”
He said there’s an unwritten understanding in the city that Immaculate Conception is a respite for Catholics and non-Catholics to just stop in, sit and pray.
“They feel touched by God,” Father Sauer said. “They don’t know that this space does that for them, but I am convinced it is the beauty and a place for God.”
The next scheduled concert is a Christmas concert Dec. 13 at 5:30 p.m. Genco will headline, singing music from her Unity award-winning CD. Each free concert lasts approximately 75 minutes. Following each concert, attendees are invited to stay for the adoration at 7 p.m., and Mass at 7:30 p.m.

Immaculate Conception Church is located at 130 Baronne St., one block off Canal Street. Free parking is available at the Chevron parking garage on Common Street and O’Keefe Avenue. Christine Bordelon can be reached at cbordelon@clarion herald.org.

reviewed by Sally Bolderson

Inspired Classics is Trish Foti-Genco’s fifth CD offering. As I
prepared to listen to the “classics”, all familiar titles, I did not know
what was in store. Although, I’ve heard of Trisha through the Catholic
music networks, I hadn’t actually heard any of her music. I was very
impressed with every track of this beautiful work. Trish’s powerful,
classically trained voice and depth of emotion brought each song to life.
And not to be understated are the professional musicians (Dreux Montegut –piano, Anne Chabreck – flute and Vance Woolf – trumpet) she surrounds her beautiful vocals with, that add their own special dimension to these songs, thereby enhancing them even further.

This is a mixed collection of traditional Latin classics such as “Laudate
Dominum” by Mozart and “Panis Angelicus” by Franck along with new
contemporary favorites like “How Beautiful” by Twila Paris, “Wherever You
Go” by David Haas and a particular favorite of mine, “How Great Thou Art”
by Hine.

Trish spent her life growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana with a
supportive, faith filled family and extended family who nurtured her
growth in her gifts. She has made her name known throughout the south as well as across the country. She was
featured on EWTN in October, 2008 and shared her musical gifts at the
UCMVA (United Catholic Music and Video Association) Unity Awards
ceremony.

“This wasn’t the plan I had for my life,” she said. “It was important for
me to teach music at a Catholic school and be a mom. The part where things(a music career and raising a family) work so well together is his (God’s)design. This is his plan.”

When asked why she chose the Catholic music genre to share her undeniable talent, she states, “To me there was no other way. Everything I have learned prepared me for this. Catholic music is just who I am. It’s my calling…it’s what I’ve done all my life.”

This is a great CD with so much to offer. I am anxious to hear her
previous recordings, Inspired, In the Stillness, After the Rain and
In His Presence (the Gift of Christmas) to see what other graces can be
found there.

You can purchase Inspired Classics as well as all of Trish’s CDs at www.tfotigenco.com.
Posted by GrapeVine at 4:38 AM
Labels: Trish Foti Genco Inspired Classics

Trish on WLAE's Issues and Faith discussing IC Fall concert series! Hear Vance and Dreux! Bravo, guys!

'Catholic Grammys'
Unity Awards show might stay in New Orleans Sunday, November 02, 2008By Theodore P. Mahne
Whether it's a movie star claiming an Oscar or a player being named MVP in the World Series, the winner's acceptance speech often includes God among the list of those to be thanked. At the annual Unity Awards, however, he's at the very top of that list.

Under auspices of the United Catholic Music and Video Association (UCMVA), the ninth annual Unity Awards were presented Oct. 25 at Loyola University's Roussel Hall. Organizers hope that the combination of the city's musical heritage and its deep Catholic roots will result in the association making New Orleans a permanent home for the national awards show. Known as the "Catholic Grammys," the Unity Awards honor Catholic musicians and artists in dozens of categories ranging from traditional liturgical music to hip-hop, contemporary, praise and worship, and rock.

"This is a wonderful venue for increasing the exposure of Catholic singers and musicians to a broader and growing audience," said Bernard J. Klein, who was co-chairman of the event with his wife, Judy. In addition, he noted that such smaller, regularly scheduled events fit well within city and state efforts to attract smaller, culturally based organizations to New Orleans.

"New Orleans is trying to become a preferred destination for such smaller groups. These 'niche' events can really grow," Klein said. The economic impact of the event, he noted, while not the size of a huge music festival, is not negligible. In addition to selling out the 600-seat Roussel Hall, the event filled some 100 hotel rooms with performers and music industry leaders from around the country.

"Such exposure is a great benefit for our city."

The show included performances by such nationally known artists as John Michael Talbot, Santiago Fernandez, Matt Maher, Tony Melendez and Sharmane Adams, as well as performances by local singers and choirs.

Susan Stein, executive producer of the awards for the UCMVA, said the awards have a positive influence on audiences and artists alike.

"Having artists come together, they can learn from each other, help each other to grow and develop," she said.

According to Stein, the UCMVA exists primarily for two reasons: to bring Catholic artists together with publishers, recording studios and other industry forces, and to help unify them in their common mission -- across musical and artistic genres -- to evangelize the message of the church. "As diverse as we are, we can speak with one voice," she said, "and be a unifying force."

Maher, who has been among the most successful of Catholic artists -- reaching the No. 2 spot on Billboard's general Christian music charts -- said he finds New Orleans to be a prime location for the awards presentation.
"New Orleans is the cultural center of the United States," he said. "Everything about it is inspiring to artists. The architecture, the music, the food, they all add to the feel of the place. And the Catholic religious heritage makes this a natural place for the UCMVA to be."

As Maher's music is particularly aimed at young people, he said he also sees the strength of the local Catholic music scene to be inspiring to younger people.

"We're experiencing a new renaissance in New Orleans and across the country in bringing voices out to shine new light on Christ," Maher said.


Local singers and musicians did particularly well in the awards ceremony. Kara Klein took home three, including one for best female vocalist of the year. Kitty Cleveland received the award for best album packaging of the year, and Trish Foti Genco was awarded seasonal song of the year.

Working with groups such as the UCMVA brings marketing and networking connections to singers who often aren't focused on becoming stars. Most make their living through parish work or teaching, rather than through performances or recordings.

"For most of us, this is how we're living out our faith," Foti Genco said.

In other words, they see their message as more important than the messenger.

Both Foti Genco and Cleveland said the Catholic music facet of the recording industry isn't as cutthroat as other facets of the business can be. And this more laid-back approach makes this part of the industry an ideal fit for New Orleans.

"Nashville has become the center for Protestant-based Christian contemporary music," Cleveland said. "That can happen now in New Orleans for Catholic music of all styles."

Describing their common work as musical missionaries, Cleveland and others also noted that Catholic musicians are seen as "musical misfits" in Christian contemporary music circles. When singers bring a particular Catholic theme into that music, such as a focus on the Eucharist or devotions to Mary and the saints, they are virtually shut out of the Christian contemporary music world, Cleveland said.

"Here in New Orleans, we can bring together our rich Catholic heritage with our rich musical heritage," she said.

Watch for Trish on WLAE TV

Week of 10/5
EWTN Backstage

Week of 10/7
Issue and Faith - WLAE
Ringside - WLAE

WGSO Radio

5-2-08

For Immediate Release

Milford, CT - Top Catholic Songs formally announced today the voting results for the Top Ten Songs for Mary from Catholic Artists. "Queen of Heaven", written and performed by Mark Mallett for his rosary project "Through Her Eyes: A Journey to Jesus" was voted #1 song. Sean Clive's "Mary's Song" comes in second, with the exceptional cover of "Hail Mary, Gentle Woman" places Gretchen Harris at #3.

Paul Harrigan's "Medjugorje" secured the #4 spot, with Fr Kent O'Connor's rendition of the "Magnificat" (from his concept album "Saints") right behind at #5. Nick Cardilino's "Do Whatever He Tells You" while Annie Karto's cover of "Song to Our Lady of Guadalupe" fill out the #6 and #7 positions, respectively. Mark Mallett places on the list a second time, as "Ode to Mary" lands at #8. The classically- trained Trish Foti Genco ranks #9 with her rendition of "Ave Maria", and the list ends with Nancy Krebs' original "Queen of Apostles".

The purpose of this Top Ten list was to honor Catholic artists for their musical and technical achievements in providing Catholics with quality recorded music which is entertaining, edifying, and educational.

According to a poll of the Top Catholic Songs online community, these 10 songs represent the best recorded songs by Catholic musicians for Mary:

1. Queen of Heaven / Mark Mallett
2. Mary's Song / Sean Clive
3. Hail Mary, Gentle Woman / Gretchen Harris
4. Medjugorje / Paul Harrigan
5. Magnificat / Fr. Kent O'Connor
6. Do Whatever Tells You / Nick Cardilino
7. Song to Our Lady of Guadalupe / Annie Karto
8. Ode to Mary / Mark Mallett
9. Ave Maria / Trish Foti Genco
10. Queen of Apostles / Nancy Krebs

To hear and download the Top Ten Songs for Mary by Catholic Artists, and other Top Ten lists, go to:

http://www.topcatho licsongs. com/Mary/ List

TopCatholicSongs. com is an online community where Catholics can find music from Catholic artists organized in the popular "Top Ten" style. The lists are dynamically connected to iTunes--through which any seeker of Catholic music can listen to and download songs, burn CD's, and discover new artists.

Go to http://www.TopCatho licSongs. com for more information.

3-11-08

For Immediate Release

Milford, CT - Top Catholic Songs formally announced today the voting results for the Top Ten Songs for Holy Week from Catholic Artists. Continuing his winning trend, Sean Clive scores another top seat as his "Calvary" from the album Amazed was voted #1 song for Holy Week. Dan Dúet's "And Time Stood Still" comes in second, with the entertaining, yet reverent, "Holy Thursday" parody on the the classic Mamas and the Papas' "Monday, Monday" places Nick Alexander at #3.

Trish Foti Genco's Lamb of God secured the #4 spot, with John Flynn's "Forsaken" from the album Cry Out right behind at #5. Lynn Geyer's rendition of "Psalm 42" and Nancy Krebs' "Eyes" fill out the #6 and #7 positions, and Bob Metivier's moving "Father(The Passion)" lands at #8. The Catholic band Apostolica ranks #9 with "O My People", and the list ends with Mel Kennedy's cover of the familiar "Via Dolorosa".

The purpose of this Top Ten list was to honor Catholic artists for their musical and technical achievements in providing Catholics with quality recorded music which is entertaining, edifying, and educational.

According to a poll of the Top Catholic Songs online community, these 10 songs represent the best recorded songs by Catholic musicians for Holy Week:

Calvary / Sean Clive
And Time Stood Still / Dan Dúet
Holy Thursday / Nick Alexander
Lamb of God / Trish Foti Genco
Forsaken / John Flynn
Psalm 42 / Lynn Geyer
Eyes / Nancy Krebs
Father (The Passion) / Bob Metivier
Oh My People / Apostolica
Via Dolorosa / Mel Kennedy
To hear and download the Top Ten Songs for Holy Week by Catholic Artists, and other Top Ten lists, go to:

http://www.topcatho licsongs. com/HolyWeek/ List

TopCatholicSongs. com is an online community where Catholics can find music from Catholic artists organized in the popular "Top Ten" style. The lists are dynamically connected to iTunes--through which any seeker of Catholic music can listen to and download songs, burn CD's, and discover new artists.

Go to http://www.TopCatho licSongs. com for more information.


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Listen to an interview with Trish:
http://cdn.libsyn.com/catholicmoments/cm023.mp3

12/4/07

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY

Milford, CT - Top Catholic Songs formally announced today the Top Ten
Advent Songs from Catholic Artists, with contemporary artist Gretchen
Harris earning top honors with her original song, "Promised Messiah".
Kitty Cleveland's medley on "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" was voted #2,
and in 3rd was Maureen and Bill Hayes' traditional rendering
of "Comfort, Comfort". Lynn Geyer secured both the number 4 and 5
places, followed by up and coming new artist Joel Stein at #6, then
Nancy Krebs. Trish Foti Genco also landed two spots and the list is
rounded out by Deacon Chuck Stevens.

The Top Ten Advent Songs list is designed to "promote Advent songs,
especially in light of the rampant commercialization of Christmas and
the non-stop airplay of secular Christmas music on the radio, and the
near disregard with anything in the Advent season..." stated Nick
Alexander, Top Catholic Songs founding member and spokesperson.

According to a poll of the Top Catholic Songs online community, these
10 songs represent the best recorded songs by Catholic musicians
fitting for the theme of Advent:

1. Promised Messiah / Gretchen Harris / Christmas Joy
2. O Come O Come Emmanuel / Kitty Cleveland / O Holy Night
3. Comfort, Comfort / Maureen and Bill Hayes / Comfort and Joy
4. Holy Is His Name / Lynn Geyer / Music of the Light
5. A Child Shall Lead / Lynn Geyer / Christmas All Year Through
6. Something's Gonna Come / Joel Stein / Always Forward
7. Waiting for the Christ Child / Nancy Krebs / Come to the Stable
8. Magnificat / Trish Foti Genco / After the Rain
9. In the Stillness / Trish Foti Genco / In the Stillness
10. Day of the Lord / Chuck Stevens / Bethlehem Morn

To hear and download the Top Ten Advent Songs by Catholic Artists,
and other Top Ten lists , go to
http://www.TopCatho licSongs. com.

TopCatholicSongs. com is an online community where Catholics can find
music from Catholic artists organized in the popular "Top Ten" style.
The lists are dynamically connected to iTunes--through which any
seeker of Catholic music can listen to and download songs, burn CD's,
and discover new artists.

Go to TopCatholicSongs. com for more information.



__._,_.___
)

IN HIS PRESENCE . . .
THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS
Trish Foti Genco has teamed up with her faithful and talented accompanist, Dreux Montegut, producer Joe Hand and co-producer Chris Finney to create this absolutely beautiful collection
of Christmas songs entitled In His Presence . . . The Gift of Christmas.
Genco’s formal voice is so well suited to these songs. You will immediately
be swept away to cold nights and snowflakes falling on a peaceful scene.
In His Presence begins with a stunning version of “What Child is This?” A lovely classical guitar plucks out the melody and flute and cello join in to accompany Genco. The arrangement is refreshingly different in its simplicity. Each instrument is used with restraint and beautifully complement Genco’s vocal. She also wrote her own third verse to the song which adds a rich dimension.
Other familiar songs follow suit: “Breath of Heaven,” “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” Gounod’s “Ave Maria” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem.”
Dreux Montegut’s piano accompaniment is very tasteful, as always. He makes the piano “sing.”
Genco made a point of using musicians from her native New Orleans as a show of support to the area so devastated by Hurricane Katrina. The trumpets, flute and cello complement the piano accompaniment nicely.
The album winds up with a rousing Dixieland jazz rendition of “Christmas in New Orleans,” a fitting way to say Merry Christmas to New Orleans.
You can purchase In His Presence . . . The Gift of Christmas through Genco’s website at tfotigenco.com.

The lovely voice of Catholic music artist Trish Foti Genco breathes with freshness, intimacy, and spirit in her newly released work, After the Rain. The blend of musical instruments is simplistic, giving one time to breathe in, taste, and see - yes even visualize the picture she is painting in spirit.

In the second track, Trish holds on to the traditional melody of “Amazing Grace” while giving it a sparkle of ‘contemporary pop.” The piano work in this song, just as many on the new disc, begins solemnly, then slowly builds to a moving channel of emotions, flowing ever so kindly, answering the voice. Dreux Montegut’s musical work must be applauded.

The title track, “After the Rain,” expresses concern, desire, and a longing to walk with God and is well complimented by the next track, “How Can I Keep from Singing.” This is the intimacy Trish shares with her listeners, and while it is easy to become lost in the sweetness of her voice, falling ever so deeply into a realm of peace, pay close attention to the lyrics. She is talking to you, drawing a sketch, painting a picture of the One, who is Our Father, for you to see, praise, and glorify.

Listening to David Haas’ “You Are Mine,” a widely known modern church melody, allows everyone to fully appreciate Genco’s voice. Her fullness and power brings spirit and exults the Word of God. Then leading into the next two tracks, “The Lord’s Prayer” and “I’ll Walk With God,” both endings show her abundant potential on harnessing vocals, creating waves of inspiration.

I must suggest if your parish, organization, or group is looking for an exceptionally talented Catholic artist to lead and inspire your congregation in Holy Mass, or simply perform at your next venue, consider Trish Foti Genco, and be moved.

Visit tfotigenco.com to purchase your copy of After the Rain.


Review by Michael Myers

In The Stillness . . . Lullabies and Songs of Love is Trish Foti Genco’s sophomore effort and it is a lovely one it is. Described as “a quiet reflection for every child of God. A collection of beautifully orchestrated meditations that will help us all find God's peace in our busy lives,” this CD definitely fulfills its goal.

Genco has a clear and soothing soprano voice and is expertly accompanied by longtime collaborator Dreux Montegut on the piano. A tasteful sprinkling of different orchestral touches completes the picture.

By far the best thing about this CD is the song choices. I was particularly moved at hearing “Too Ra Loo Ral” which flooded my mind with memories of Bing Crosby’s Fr. O’Malley and the priesthood when it was held in such high esteem in our society.

I also loved Genco’s choice of John Michael Talbot’s “Come to the Quiet,” a personal favorite of mine and a song of Talbot’s that is not normally covered.

The title cut, “In the Stillness,” accomplishes its goal of helping the listener find that still, quiet spot in their souls.

With eighteen soothing and beautiful songs to choose from, you will not be found wanting. In The Stillness will enrich your spiritual life and bring you peace.

In The Stillness can be purchased at www.tfotigenco.com or through The Catholic Music Network at
www.catholicmusicnetwork.com.

Susan Bailey

BACK TO THE TOP

Trish Foti Genco and her friend Dreux Montegut have worked and performed together in various churches, cathedrals and universities for over 25 years. This classically trained duo figured it was time to place some of the music that people had been asking for into a CD. They did, and the CD is called Inspired. It is a collection of inspirational classics and new songs to musically inspire and uplift the listener. The classics of Schubert ( Ave Maria), Mozart (Ave Verum), and Franck (Panis Angelicus) are executed in such a way that the average listener is captivated by its reassurance, not intimidated. There are also Christian classic hymns performed here like "El Shaddi," "How Great Thou Art," "and "Not For The Tongues Of Angels." Yet, it is the newer songs here that display musical versatility and enable the listener to be transported and experience the essence of each tune. These songs include "Hold Me," "If You Only Knew," and "You Remind Me Why." The solid performance of Trish Foti Genco on Inspired enables the listener to become moved by the recording's emotion and sensitivity. If you are a fan of Kitty Cleveland you should like this CD.
Read the Trish Foti Genco interview.



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Answering God’s call is not always an easy thing to do. In her twenties, Trish Foti Genco suffered a stroke that should have kept her from singing again. But her firm belief that God helps those He calls changed all that.

Picture it. It’s December, it’s cold, Christmas is only a few weeks away. In the frost air of the twilight you can still see your breath in front of you as you speak. You’re walking along Jackson square in the heart of the French Quarter of New Orleans. Off to one side you can see the lofty spires of the St. Louis Cathedral. You pass by the statue of Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans, after whom Jackson Park is named. Then you hear voices. A group of carolers is singing. You smile as you see the little girl singing along in the group.

You think, “my, she has a beautiful voice! She’ll grow up to be a great singer one day!”. And you would be right.

The voice belongs to Trish Foti Genco, now married to Randy Genco, and mother of two; a 14-year-old daughter, and a 8-year-old son. Trish has been singing her whole life and has recently recorded her second CD. She has a deep-rooted faith in God and chooses to use her incredible talents to give glory to God in song, and to teach others to do the same.

Trish was born and raised in New Orleans. In the South, the family was important. Trish and her younger sister grew up around parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles who taught the girls to love and enjoy their family, and that faith in God is the glue that keeps the family together. Music was one of the things that made their family special. Singing Christmas Carols in Jackson Square; singing their picnic songs while she and her grandma, “Mama Dear” would can pickles out on the patio; writing a song and singing it to win a talent competition in the sixth grade; these were all stepping stones that led Trish to become the woman she is today.

Her first brush with music happened in the sixth grade. She remembers it clearly.

“One of the Sisters handed me a guitar, sat me down, and told me I would be playing for Mass on Friday. ‘Yes, Sister!’ was the only option here, so I got busy.”

Trish learned drums in a similar fashion when one of the Dominican Sisters, who ran her school, had her play the drums for one of the New Orleans’ famed Mardi Gras parades. Today, Trish can play guitar, drums, piano, and saxophone.

Her vocal talents became obvious during one of her guitar lessons. She was in the eighth grade at the time, and she had written a song and she sang it for her guitar teacher. He was so impressed that he had some friends at Loyola College of Music listen to her performance. They, too, were impressed, and recommended she study voice. She began to take singing lessons and started to sing in local theater productions. It was during one of those summer plays that she met Dreux Montegut, a student at Loyola, who became her accompanist.

Today, Trish leads a busy life. She teaches music at St. Clement of Rome Catholic School in New Orleans, where she also serves as Choral Music Director, directing two choirs. She sings at Mass at St. Clement Of Rome Catholic Church and guest cantors often at churches throughout the Archdiocese of New Orleans. She also performs concerts of her music throughout the area with Dreux. Plus she has a family to take care of. How does she do it?

“I strongly believe in carving in family time, “ Trish says. “Family has to be right after God.”

Trish also believes in preserving her heritage, so traditional Catholic devotions such as praying the Rosary are a priority in her house.

“Balancing family and work is sometimes like being in the circus. I often feel like the fire juggler in the circus. I stay focused by offering up my work. I give it all to God. God makes it all happen, not me. I learned a long time ago that God truly equips those he calls. He makes all things possible!”

Answering God’s call is important to Trish. She describes it this way. “God calls each of us to do His will. I believe He has a plan for our lives. I love the encyclical of education that calls us ‘to teach as Jesus did’. I have devoted myself to educating God’s children. I don’t think you can have longevity in education today unless it truly is a vocation from God. It’s not an easy job. I teach music to PK to the 8th grade and direct two performing choirs, and there are times when it is overwhelming. Last year, I counted 52 liturgies, plus concert performances and plays, not counting my solo work. I couldn’t do this without God. I think if you keep yourself grounded, you will find that God will carry you.”

In 2003, Trish, with the help of her friend Dreux Montegut, recorded her first CD called “Inspired”. It is a project that included songs like the Twila Paris hit “How Beautiful”, Schubert’s “Ave Maria”, “How Great Thou Art”, and a song made famous by Amy Grant, “El Shaddai”. Trish has felt a kinship to Amy, whom she considers her favorite artist. They are near the same age, both have had children around the same time, and Trish admires the genuineness in Amy Grant, and met and even sang with her during a concert in New Orleans. Grant’s self-titled album and her “Age to Age” album both remain among Trish’s favorite albums.

Trish recently released a second CD called “In the Stillness”. “This is about finding God in the midst of the business life; finding God, finding peace. There are some beautiful contemporary lullabies originally recorded by Twila Paris and Sandi Patty, as well as beautiful classical pieces. There are some more praise and worship tunes to help kids of all ages connect to God in the quiet.”

Her favorite song on the project is one called “My Whole Life Long”.

“As a Mom, it’s my sole desire for my kids to know God their whole life.”

Dreux Montegut helped produce both projects. His own credentials are impressive. Also a New Orleans native, he graduated from Loyola University and has a Masters Degree from Eastern School of Music at the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans where he directs the St. Louis Boy Choir, the Cathedral Choir, and the concert Choir.

“Trish and I share a dedication to music ministry and to devoting ourselves to educating God’s children,” says Dreux. “Music is such a gift and inspiration in today’s youth. Our friendship helps make the ministry together easy and is a gift to each other, as well as to our audiences.”

Trish talks about her reason for recording music.

“People in the area have been asking us to do this for years. We decided to get together to record a few things for utilitarian reasons. We were definitely moved by the Spirit and saw the need to do this not for ourselves, but for God and our community. I had not been shy about tackling this because I had a stroke when I was in my twenties. Once people heard the end result of the first demo, it became obvious that people needed to hear this. They gained strength and peace from it. It was what we had to do.

My stroke was definitely a turning point in my life. My daughter was six months old, and quite frankly, I wasn’t supposed to be able to sing again. I knew this was God’s plan. My faith keeps me strong. I knew I needed to do this to inspire other who had hardships in their lives and to let them know that with God, all is possible.

With the talents she has, Trish could have done just about anything she wanted. Why Catholic music?

“To me there was no other way. Everything I have learned prepared me for this. Catholic music is just who I am. It’s my calling…it’s what I’ve done all my life.”

Trish cities two examples as to why she feels her music is important. One fall while she was signing copies of her CD for fans, two women, both moms, came up to her separately and told her that they had children with special needs, and that her music was the only thing that could calm them down. The second incident involved her grandmother’s best friend, whom Trish had not seen since her grandmother’s funeral three years earlier. The women had come to a retreat center to see Trish perform and told Trish that her grandmother would have been proud of her.

Trish has eclectric taste in music. She names artists Julie Andrews, Josh Groban, Rene Fleming, Amy Grant, Erin O’Donnelll, John Michael Talbot, and Susan Ashton as some of her favorite artists. She also loves classical music Samuel Barber, J.S. Bach, and Faure.

Her Catholic faith is the core of her life. She and her family share a rich prayer life. In addition to praying the rosary, she and her family take part in the liturgical and para-liturgical celebrations. Her favorite saint is St. Therese de Lisieux. Her favorite scripture passage is 1 Corinthians 2: 9-10 “what eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him, this God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the depths of God.”

Trish holds a special devotion to our Blessed Mother.

“Mary is central to my life,” Trish explains. “I admire her ability to say ‘yes’ completely to God, no matter what the cost. As a child of God, she comforts me; and as a Mom, she inspires me.”

“I love the saying ‘hands to work, heart to God’. Truly all we do must be offered for His glory. There is a simple prayer I say with my own children: ‘Jesus, please make me more like you each day.’ With this in our hearts, we can do God’s work.

“My definition of a hero is someone who gives you wings to fly and hope to try!” †

Jim Logue, Jr has been involved in Christian radio since 1988, and hosts “Joy in the Journey”, a radio show on WLSH, Lansford, PA which features Catholic music. He is also an organist at his home parish, Sts. Peter and Paul , Lehighton, Pa.

Catholic Singer Says The Year Of The Eucharist Is For The Whole Family
by Jeff Burson

METAIRIE, Oct 28, ’04 (CatholicMusicNetwork.com) - On October 18th, 2004, Pope John Paul II decreed this year to be known as the Year of the Eucharist. He said “The Year of the Eucharist is time of intense encounter with Christ who is present in the Sacrament of His Body and Blood. Through this mystery, He sacramentaly realizes His paschal sacrifice which redeemed humanity from the enslavement of sin and established God’s Kingdom of love, justice and peace.” Bishop Loverde of Arlington in his homily that day said, “...the "Year of the Eucharist" will strengthen and deepen our prayer life if we take practical steps to make adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and regular celebration of the Eucharist even more the very fabric of our lives.” Loverde then asked, “Parents, is there a creative way in which you can foster a deeper love and awareness of the Eucharist in your family life?”

Are children prepared for this special year? Will they understand the real presence in the Eucharist?

Catholic music artist Trish Foti Genco says children do understand that Jesus is with us under the form of bread and wine. Genco says that many parents would be floored by what their children’s minds can comprehend. She should know, since Genco is Choral Music Director for St. Clement Rome Catholic School in Metairie, Louisiana, and mom to two wonderful children. Devoted to Catholic Music education, Trish’s focus is on Children’s Music Liturgy and the inspiration of our youth. Classically trained, Trish has performed throughout the south with her friend and pianist Dreux Montequt and has released two CDs. The first was called Inspired and won critical attention. Genco’s newest CD is called In the Stillness...Lovesongs and Lullabies. It is a meditative prayerful CD that parents and their children would like. One of the spotlights of the CD is on family Eucharistic adoration and quite time.

Trish Foti Genco tells us in this interview why the Year of the Eucharist should involve parents and their children.

CMN: Why do you think the time is right to declare this year the “Year of the Eucharist”?

TFG: With the unrest in our world and our society I think that there is no greater gift that the Holy Father could give us than to direct our gaze to the Blessed Sacrament. There is such indescribable love, peace, and joy in His presence. I know that in strengthening our devotion we will strengthen ourselves and our community.

I am very blessed to have an adoration chapel in our parish that is open 24 hours a day. I cherish the time that I spend there in quiet prayer. It strengthens me and re-energizes me on a “daily-day” and comforts and heals me in those times of need. It is a true blessing. Its quiet reminds me to slow down and listen.

One of the things that lead me to recording my latest CD “In the Stillness” is my own need as a working mom to slow it down and listen to God. Our world moves so quickly, I think children of all ages need to slow down and be with God each day. The wonderful ritual of rocking a baby to sleep…peaceful surrender and for some busy moms and dads that bedtime with their children might be there only “down time” in a very hectic day. How wonderful, I thought, if that time could be prayerful reflection for the young and “not so young.” Something the family could enjoy together. It is quiet meditations for every child of God…love songs to God and His children.


CMN: Speaking of children, when is the right time to talk to them about the Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist?

TFG: As a Mom, I think it is important to teach our children about Jesus’ presence in the Holy Eucharist from the time they are very small. When they are very young it is about modeling respectful behavior and reverence. Praying hands…bowing…quiet prayers… children absorb all we do. Even small children understand the concepts of “special” and “gift.” Even pre-school students can understand the idea of Jesus being with us in the bread and the wine. As a parent, I know that it is my most important task to pass on the important and sacredness of Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist.

Actually, as teacher, I think many parents would be floored by what their children understand and observe. Children strive for goodness…they seek love I can’t think of a more beautiful way to share it with them. Often they come back on a Monday and make some pretty profound statements on their Sunday experiences. From the teary-eyed “no one took me to church because the game was on”… to “Jesus was in my heart today.”


CMN: Being a teacher, how have you been able to reflect Christ’s love for us to your students?

TFG: My true calling, as a Christian educator, is not only to mirror Christ to my students, but to be the mirror that allows my students to see Christ in themselves. This is a tall order in our crazy world, one that I ask for guidance in daily. I pray with my choir each time before we sing, “Lord please take my song and make it your song.” We need to remind ourselves constantly that this is about using the gifts that God gave us for His glory.

I teach music to PK-8 in a Catholic school, so I am given the wonderful vehicle of music to reach my students. One of the things I like best in my job is that no two years or days are the same. Children are wonderfully honest and so they challenge me to keep my own music ministry changing to keep up with their tastes and needs. What worked 10-15 years ago may or may not work today. I LOVE the challenge! I am refreshed by the sweet innocence of those little ones and challenged by my teens. My favorite moments though are the spontaneous ones…when I see the pre-teens reaching out to help the little ones in Liturgy. Recently a group of 5th graders started volunteering recess to teach Kinders their new favorite praise and worship songs….unplanned, uninvited….so inspired, so touching to see them spreading God’s word with these babies, a true gift for me as a teacher.


CMN: Was there a teacher or person who help guide you in your musical talent?

TFG: That’s funny actually…I was a VERY shy student in a very traditional Catholic school in the 70’s. A Sister pulled me out of class one day…handed me a guitar and informed me that I’d be playing for Mass on Friday and left me alone in this big hall. I dare not even question or hesitate. Two chords later, I was playing for Mass. I started taking guitar lessons, because I needed more than two chords, and that’s when things changed! My guitar teacher gave me homework one day. He asked me to write a song. When I returned for my lesson I sang it for him and he rushed out of the room. I had no idea what I had done! He returned with a tape recorder, taped the song and sent it in to the local University. A few weeks later I was singing with the Loyola University Opera. I was 12 years old and thankfully too naïve to be nervous. Actually, that’s when Dreux and I met. He was my first accompanist! We’ve been friends ever since…


CMN: Your debut CD is called Inspired, who do you hope will be inspired by your music?

TFG: You know we all need help and inspiration on life’s journey. So young or “of wisdom” I hope that everyone will be touched by something on the CD. I am so concerned for our youth today. They are so surrounded by media that brings them down. I tell them often they become what they fill themselves with, musically. I work hard to capture their attention with music that appeals to them. After they are “pumped up” I try to introduce the music that is part of our Catholic heritage. It’s always interesting how much they like it! My favorite story this year happened last October. My phone ran one evening at home. It was a Mom of a Pre-K student from school. She apologized for bothering me, but explained that her son had been singing SOMETHING for weeks. She held the phone out….you could hear the little boy in the bathtub singing at the top of his lungs! The Mom came back to the phone and said frantically that she was sure this was not English. I was laughing and smiling…it was the “Ave Maria”! From the mouths of babes…oh, how happy Mary must have been!

Another touching moment is after a signing at a local Catholic bookstore I had two Moms with disabled children approach me separately. They told me that my first CD “Inspired” was the only thing that calmed there little ones. It seemed that God kept sending me people to reassure me that we were on the right path and for me to continue to make my music available to people.


CMN: Much of the money for the concerts you perform goes to Catholic schools for families that are struggling. Tell me a little about this school and what you do to help them.

TFG: Dreux Montequt, my pianist and good friend, are both very committed to Catholic education. We made a decision early on that if we did concerts to promote the CD we would donate the money to music programs in area Catholic Schools. Music is such a vital part of Catholic education, but most often totally unfunded in Louisiana.

One school in particular we had a concert for in April 2004 was for the “Good Shepherd” school. This unique school was formed by the late Fr. Harry Thompson. It is a “free” school for inner city children. Built in the heart of downtown, parents “pay” tuition by service hours to the school. It’s amazing really. It is funded on private donations. Area business people serve lunch on their breaks, it beautiful. Our Concert will help to fund their music program.

I am also sponsoring a “Music for the Military" program through the St. Clement of Rome School Choir and Band Program. We are collecting Christian CDs for the military and will be shipping them to the Middle East for Christmas. The response has been beautiful. Many artists from the Catholic Association of Musicians have very generously donated their CDs. For more info readers can check out my website tfotigenco.com.


CMN: Trish, you went through a struggle in you life after you had your baby. Tell us about this cross and what you had to do to overcome it and how it strengthened your faith?

TFG: I think it’s Phil 4:13 that says, “In Him who is the source of my strength is the strength of everything”. Yes, after the birth of my daughter I had a stroke. It was an indescribable experience really. It seemed to be the consensus at the time that I certainly wouldn’t sing again or play guitar or piano. I thank God for my faith. Without the strength that my faith gave me and my family, I am certain I would not have recovered. My friends often tell me my life reads as science fiction. I laugh, but I know that God only does give us what we can handle. It’s been 13 years since my stroke, and for many years I didn’t talk about the pain and horrible and humbling process of recovery. Many encounters in the past few years have shown me, that there are others that need to hear my story. They need to know that through God all things are possible. You just can’t give up…God does have a plan for your life. That’s why my first CD was called “Inspired” part of this project is in thanksgiving really for those that inspired me. Hopefully, it will “inspire” someone whose life path as taken a detour.

CMN: Thank you Trish!

Look for Trish Foti Genco's new release "In the Stillness...Lovesongs and Lullabies” at CatholicMusicNetwork.com. Also pick up her debut CD Inspired on sale now!




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LH: It's a great pleasure to be able to share the following Catholic Music Spotlight with Trish Foti Genco. Trish, congratulations on your beautiful music and the CD Inspired. Would you please tell our readers a bit about yourself?

TFG: I am the proud Mom of a 14 year old girl and 7 year old boy. I am a New Orleans native and music director at St. Clement of Rome Catholic School. (You can read more about Trish at her web site, www.tfotigenco.com)

LH: Trish, your CD "Inspired" really lives up to its title! How did you select the songs for the CD? Do you have a favorite song on the CD?

TFG: "Inspired" was really a project that evolved on its own. We titled it "Inspired" because I felt so called to record the songs that people in the area had been asking for. We actually didn't start out to do this at all. We really began by just record some things for utilitarian reasons...The response was amazing. I seemed to bless the listener, as well as the musicians involved. Truly I feel it was something that God was asking me to do.

My favorite song is probably "El Shaddai". My own faith grew so my when I was a teen with that song. I think for me it sums up the awesome power of our faith. I calls me to surrender to God. I truly moves each each time we perform it. To me this ministry is about "shared prayer". I feel blessed to be God's instrument to pray with the listener.

LH: On "Inspired", you're accompanied by your good friend Dreux Montegut, who plays so beautifully. Tell us about Dreux and your artistic partnership.

TFG: Dreux and I met when I was in high school. He was actually a student at Loyola University and was my first accompanist. We have been friends for 25 years. He does play beautifully, but most importantly he is a very spiritual player and person. We understand each other so well, it is a gift. We are like brother and sister and it is always easy and a blessing to make music together.

LH: How did you come to the decision to record Catholic music? How has your faith impacted upon your musical career?

TFG: Catholic Music has always been central to my life. I grew up literally singing and playing on the Catholic Church. I started playing guitar and singing when I was just a pre-teen. I feel that my music certain feeds my own spiritual life, as well as my listener. I pray with music in private and in public. I am blessed to have this gift to share.

As a Mom and teacher I try to use my music not only to pray for my kids and students, but to use it as a teaching tool. It is our responsibility to share our heritage, traditions, and faith with our youth. How wonderful it is when a song teaches scripture and echoes back into our hearts in times of need.

LH: Who are some of your favorite musicians and musical influences, Catholic and non-Catholic?

TFG: I have a pretty wide range of musical taste. I was fortunate to have wonderful classical training. I really love the music of Samuel Barber and Bach. I adore the work of Julie Andrews and Renee Fleming. Contemporary Christian music of all kinds have so profoundly affected my own spiritual growth. I really like the music of John Michael Talbot, Amy Grant, and Susan Ashton. I love honestly and simplicity in delivery in song delivery. I think it propels us to God.

LH: I know that you have an upcoming project in the works? Please share some information about the new CD you have coming out soon.

TFG: Our new project is "In the Stillness...Lovesongs and Lullabies" It is due out in early November. As a busy working Mom of a 14 year old and 7 year old, I know how difficult it is to find time for prayer. I also feel so strongly that we need to pray with our children and teach them to pray. I thought if I created a meditative prayerful project that parents AND their children would like...it would help create some quiet in out busy lives. It's not your typical lullabies...more like a family devotional for quiet times. We need to seek out that time to be still so that God can speak to our hearts.

LH: Trish Foti Genco, it's a joy to share your beautiful talent of song with our readers. Are there any closing thoughts or ideas you'd like to share?

TFG: My sincere thanks for allowing me to share my music and prayer with you and your listeners. May we all seek and find God's peace and love.

The lovely voice of Catholic music artist Trish Foti Genco breathes with freshness, intimacy, and spirit in her newly released work, After the Rain. The blend of musical instruments is simplistic, giving one time to breathe in, taste, and see - yes even visualize the picture she is painting in spirit.

In the second track, Trish holds on to the traditional melody of “Amazing Grace” while giving it a sparkle of ‘contemporary pop.” The piano work in this song, just as many on the new disc, begins solemnly, then slowly builds to a moving channel of emotions, flowing ever so kindly, answering the voice. Dreux Montegut’s musical work must be applauded.

The title track, “After the Rain,” expresses concern, desire, and a longing to walk with God and is well complimented by the next track, “How Can I Keep from Singing.” This is the intimacy Trish shares with her listeners, and while it is easy to become lost in the sweetness of her voice, falling ever so deeply into a realm of peace, pay close attention to the lyrics. She is talking to you, drawing a sketch, painting a picture of the One, who is Our Father, for you to see, praise, and glorify.

Listening to David Haas’ “You Are Mine,” a widely known modern church melody, allows everyone to fully appreciate Genco’s voice. Her fullness and power brings spirit and exults the Word of God. Then leading into the next two tracks, “The Lord’s Prayer” and “I’ll Walk With God,” both endings show her abundant potential on harnessing vocals, creating waves of inspiration.

I must suggest if your parish, organization, or group is looking for an exceptionally talented Catholic artist to lead and inspire your congregation in Holy Mass, or simply perform at your next venue, consider Trish Foti Genco, and be moved.

Visit tfotigenco.com to purchase your copy of After the Rain.


Review by Michael