Tynan, now a world-famous Irish tenor, was born with severe deformities of the feet and leg, but went on to defy the doctors and not only walk on his own, but become a champion equestrian. When a motorcycle accident made it necessary for both his legs to be amputated below the knee, he got artificial limbs and kept right on. He intended to become a medical doctor and got a degree from Trinity College, but then won a BBC TV talent contest and turned to studying opera. Four years later he had a recording contract.
I was surprised to learn that he had not set out to be a singer and that his musical career is still so young. Unfortunately, except for telling us in the Epilogue how he sang at Yankee Stadium in New York as part of a memorial for the 9/11 victims, he stopped short of writing about his life after becoming one of "The Irish Tenors." Maybe he is saving that for a sequel.
I won't say that the writing is superb, but the story is moving and inspiring, and anyone who enjoys Tynan's singing or needs a shot of encouragement should read this book. The blurb on the back cover calls it "a heart-warmer, moving, and really courageous," and I would like to add, "humorous," too.
I was surprised to learn that he had not set out to be a singer and that his musical career is still so young. Unfortunately, except for telling us in the Epilogue how he sang at Yankee Stadium in New York as part of a memorial for the 9/11 victims, he stopped short of writing about his life after becoming one of "The Irish Tenors." Maybe he is saving that for a sequel.
I won't say that the writing is superb, but the story is moving and inspiring, and anyone who enjoys Tynan's singing or needs a shot of encouragement should read this book. The blurb on the back cover calls it "a heart-warmer, moving, and really courageous," and I would like to add, "humorous," too.
A wonderful,true and courageous story of this member of the singing group, "The Irish Tenors". Born with severe deformities of his feet and legs, doctors felt he would never walk. He did learn to walk with heavy braces on both legs and became a champion equestrian as well. He graduated from Trinity College in Dublin with a medical degree. Following a motorcycle accident both legs were amputated below the knees. He went on to win a talent contest, study opera in England and Germany and landed a recording contract.
It is an amazing tale of dtermination and courage!
It is an amazing tale of dtermination and courage!
