[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 51 (Wednesday, April 2, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E483]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING BYRON JANIS: MUSICIAN, DIPLOMAT, AND INSPIRATION

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                         HON. MICHAEL F. DOYLE

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 2, 2008

  Mr. DOYLE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Byron Janis, 
internationally recognized as one of the world's greatest pianists. The 
story of his life is one of immense talent, dedication and perseverance 
which has captivated audiences and inspired others across America and 
around the world.
  Byron Janis was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, in 1928. At the age 
of 15, Mr. Janis made his orchestral debut, and by age 20, had made his 
Carnegie Hall debut in front of a sold-out audience. Later, Mr. Janis 
was selected to be the first American performer to participate in a 
cultural exchange between the United States and the Soviet Union in 
1960. On November 2, 1960, the New York Times wrote, ``If music could 
replace international politics, Byron Janis could consider himself an 
ambassador''. So successful was Mr. Janis' performance that the Soviet 
government invited him back just two years later for a six-week tour of 
the country. Since that time, Mr. Janis has performed for American 
Presidents and received acclaim around the world. Mr. Janis has been 
honored both in America and abroad with such distinctions as the 
Distinguished Pennsylvania Artists Award, the Gold Medal from the 
French Society for the Encouragement of Progress, and the Harriet Cohen 
International Music Award. He has also appeared on the Tonight Show 
with Johnny Carson, Good Morning America, 20/20 with Barbara Walters, 
and CNN.
  Perhaps Mr. Janis' greatest contribution to America lies not in his 
graceful work at the piano, but rather the tremendous perseverance and 
unbreakable spirit he has shown in the face of significant adversity. 
In 1973, be was diagnosed with arthritis in both his hands and wrists, 
an affliction which seriously threatened his ability to continue 
practicing the craft he loved. Reflecting his will and determination to 
rise above the obstacle which was placed in his path, Mr. Janis once 
said, ``I have arthritis--it doesn't have me.'' For 12 years, Mr. Janis 
continued performing, often in great pain, while keeping his condition 
a closely held secret.
  While announcing his affliction at the White House in 1985, Mr. Janis 
also declared he was assuming the role of Ambassador for the Arts for 
the Arthritis foundation. Through his music, he has raised a 
significant amount of money for the Foundation's work and research. 
More importantly, however, his story of determination is one which 
serves as an inspiration and makes Mr. Janis a role model for Americans 
with disabilities. In spite of his condition, to this day, Mr. Janis is 
still performing before admiring audiences. Mr. Janis is living proof 
that the American spirit can and will prevail in the face of challenges 
large and small.
  2008 marks Mr. Janis' 80 birthday as well as the 60th anniversary of 
his first performance at Carnegie Hall. Each year, Congress honors 
individuals who have distinguished themselves with acts of courage and 
determination which capture the essence of the American spirit and 
serve as an inspiration to those around them. The life and 
accomplishments of Byron
  Janis--as a musician, ambassador, and role model--embody the best in 
American culture and values. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring 
Mr. Janis on the occasion of these two noteworthy anniversaries.

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