Meet the Family Part II
After finishing my initial phone conversation with Dr. Laurine Elkins-Marlow inspired me to continue my recording work and research into the life of Canadian/American composer Gena Branscombe. I now had a support system which included Gena Branscombe's daughter, Gena Tenney Phenix, and Dr. Marlow who worked with Gena Branscombe. Of course, I must add that my dear husband, Dan, and my wonderful accompanist, Martin, were encouraging me and cheering me on as well. What a team! In August 2000 I was able to arrange an in-person meeting with Gena Tenney Phenix and her husband Philip. Dan and I traveled to Bridgewater, Virginia where they lived in a retirement community. I am sure that Mr. & Mrs. Phenix were as apprehensive as Dan and I were. How would this meeting between strangers go? Would conversation flow easily? All our doubts and worries evaporated when we were met at the door by two warm and enthusiastic people. We entered their home and immediately felt part of t...