My grandmother owned an old upright piano that had been in my family for two generations, yet no one knew how to play it. We collectively lived in an apartment building that stood where the famed Lincoln Center now stands in New York City. I began playing that piano, by ear, at the age of three. I would come home form church and teach myself whatever hymn I heard that day. By age 5, my mother walked me from 63rd street to 113th street for my piano lessons. When I was 18, I studied at the prestigious Julliard School Of Music. My family's motto was, "if you want to be the best, learn from the masters". Taking that advice, I traveled to Germany to study under, the legendary, Arthur Rubenstein.

Many years later my granmother's old apartment building on 63 street was condemned. Just before it was torn down to build Lincoln Center, my Aunt took a trip back to our old address. She snuck into the building in an attempt to see the place where so many wonderful memories had been made. Making her way up the broken stairs, through barren halls and falling ceilings, she reached the 3rd floor and opened the door to the apartment.  It was completely empty... except for my upright piano sitting in the middle of the room. Today it is in my possession and is a brilliant reminder of my history. I love telling that story... every time I play Lincoln Center.

During the span of my career I've recorded over 40 albums, received a Grammy Award for my involvement on "The Apostle"  soundtrack, a Grammy nomination for "Chariots of Fire," and eight Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. I have performed thousands of concerts to audiences all over the world, including Presidents and dignitaries.  For the past 18 years I have entertained in Branson, Missouri with my Broadway style production and have a weekly television show aired to over 80 million viewers.  In 2006 a dream became a reality as I played to a packed house at Carnegie Hall. Most of all, I am a husband to my beautiful and talented wife, Cheryl and father of two daughters, Cherie and Christina.

Visit Dino's official website at www.DinoPlaysPiano.com