Kenny Thames was born to Aaron and Lona Thames in Borger, Texas. At an early age, he learned to discover and release the creative gifts within. Throughout his adult life, he has used his gifts to provide his livelihood.
"Doing what you love to do, is awesome! Deriving your income from what you love to do, is even better!" he often tells his students.
After attending Gateway College of Evangelism in Florrisant, Missouri, Kenny tutored under his father's ministry in Glendale, Arizona. Upon ordination to ministry, he successfully pastored his home church, Bethel Temple, in Borger, Texas for five years. He returned to his father's church, Faith Temple in Glendale, Arizona, as associate pastor. In 1980, he became the pastor and founder of Alive Ministries of El Paso, Texas, which he pastored until 1993.
In 1994, he left the pastoral ministry and moved to Phoenix, Arizona. While in Phoenix, he pursued his passion for music. He is an acclaimed pianist, performing for some of the finest resorts, country clubs, and events in Phoenix. His gift of writing and arranging music has provided many opportunites to perform for and with some of the Valley's most reknown musicians.
Kenny began teaching private piano instruction in Phoenix in 1994. He has taught over 500 people to pursue their dream of playing the piano. Many of his students are professional pianists and organists. Kenny's love for music, along with his passion for teaching, has inspired many musicians...young and "not as young!" (as he likes to refer to his older students!)
Kenny believes that each person is placed on this planet for a reason. Our inherent gifts, when being utilized, bring us the ulltimate joy and fulfillment.
Recently, Kenny released his "knack" for comedy when he "created" Myrtle Johnston. Myrtle's naive outlook on life, along with her strong religious ties, bring humor wherever she performs. Myrtle is booked as a comedienne, emcee, or host for special events. She flavors her performances with her own "edith bunker" singing. Everyone loves Myrtle immediately.
In a few weeks, Kenny will release his first book, "Lona's Son." This is an autobiographical account of his life in three stages. The tremendous influence of his mother, Lona, is impacted throughout the book. The reader will laugh or cry...but never be indifferent. When the last page is read, there will not only be more insight into Kenny's life, but insight into the reader's own life as well.
Kenny has also released four CD's....with a fifth being planned for release in late 2008.
In June of 2008, Kenny just completed producing "The Rib Shack" at the Joan Kroc Theatre in San Diego, California.
He is currently prodcing his original theatre production "Kleo the Kat" at the Kerr Culture Center in Scottsdale Arizona on Sept. 26 and 27.
|
