Roger Brenizer

Roger's Musical Background

I was born in Kansas City, Missouri in 1940. My wife of 46 years, Nancy, and I reside near Belton, Mo. We have two sons and three grandchildren. I served six years in the Marine Corps and was elected as Cass County Surveyor for 18 years. I have been in private practice as a land surveyor since 1970 and am the Managing Partner of Roger L. Brenizer & Associates Professional Land Surveyors. I am also a computer programmer and have written and sold software, which is a big advantage to understanding the Yamaha Tyros 4 Arranger Workstation.

I was introduced to music, at the age of five, when my parents gave me a plastic accordion for Christmas. I immediately began playing very simple songs, the first being "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star." I wanted to learn to play a real accordion and started taking lessons in 1946. After a few years of lessons my mother took me and my sister to see Dick Contino, a world renowned accordionist, perform live on stage at the RKO Missouri Theater in Kansas City. I was so enthralled with his performance that when we left there I said to my mother; "I want to play the accordion just like Dick Contino someday, mommy." Needless to say, that never happened, because there was then and is now only one Dick Contino.

The early years found me playing in recitals, school functions, talent contests and nightclubs, under my parent's supervision, and performing with my sister, who was a dancer, for veteran's homes. In about 1953 I began studying under Don Lipovac, a world renowned accordion player.

My mom and dad had no musical training, but they wanted to learn to play the organ because they had a friend who played piano and organ. They also had friends who played guitar, clarinet and banjo. So in the early 1960's they bought a Magnavox chord organ and thought because I played the accordion I could teach them to play the organ. The organ was totally foreign to me with the keys being horizontal and perpendicular to me, as opposed to the accordion being vertical and parallel with my body. I used to sit sideways on the bench so I could even come close to getting the fingering correct. That was a real laugh. And I had to learn to play left hand chords, which was entirely different than the bass buttons on an accordion. My parents finally learned some easy tunes and enjoyed playing to their own satisfaction. I also became accustomed to the organ and gravitated to it rather easily.

Well, I was off and running with a new love of organs. Since those early days I have owned a Lowery Theater organ, a Thomas organ, a Hammond Drawbar Organ, and currently own two Yamaha HS-8T Organs, which were built in 1987, a Kohler & Campbell piano, my original Ancona accordion, which is now about 67 years old and a Yamaha Tyros 4 keyboard. I still play the older HS-8T's today and they produce some marvelous sounds.

I love all kinds of music: Church, Big Band, Dixieland, Classical, Latin, Blues, Pop, Easy Listening, Jazz, Polka, etc. All of my music is recorded live. I sight read and play by ear. I don't edit my music, so what you hear is what you get. I hope you enjoy my music.

I owe so much to my wonderful parents who made it possible for me to learn to play music. It's truly the gift of a lifetime. My parents went home to be with the Lord, several years ago, but my dad's words still ring in my ears today, as he always said the same thing when I sat down to play; "How about a little Alley Cat, Roger." I think I wore that song out. And above all, I thank God for what little ability He gave me. I play to honor Him.

Thank you, Joe Waters, for the opportunity to be a part of this great PSR Tutorial Community you have created. I look forward to learning more from what you have spent untold hours producing and hopefully I will be able to contribute in some small way.

Music Is My Life

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A Legacy of Dedication to the Yamaha Keyboards Community

For over two decades, Roger Brenizer (rlbrenizer), the former administrator of the PSR Tutorial Forum, devoted himself to nurturing one of the most respected online communities for Yamaha keyboard players. His leadership, dedication, and passion for music helped shape the forum into a thriving space where musicians of all levels could connect, learn, and grow together.

Under Roger’s management, the PSR Tutorial Forum became a welcoming home for thousands of members worldwide, from professional Yamaha keyboard performers, to Yamaha keyboard enthusiasts / hobbyists. He handled every aspect of forum administration with patience, expertise, and care, ensuring that the community remained supportive and inclusive. His contributions created a lasting impact that continues to benefit worldwide yamaha keyboard players.

A New Chapter: Continuing the PSR Tutorial Legacy

In September 2024, following the transition from Joe Waters, full control, including management and ownership of the PSR Tutorial website and the PSR Tutorial Forum was transferred to PsrStyles.com, which is one of the leading developers of high quality Custom Styles and Premium Extensions for Yamaha keyboards. [Read more...]

New Administrator of the PSR Tutorial Forum

Today, under the leadership of Alex Mercer - an accomplished Yamaha keyboardist with 30+ years of professional performance experience, music technology expertise, and programming languages knowledge - the PSR Tutorial Forum continues to life and thrive.

Alex carries forward the same friendly, professional, and knowledgeable approach that made Roger’s tenure so special. His deep understanding of Yamaha Keyboards and commitment to maintaining the forum’s welcoming spirit ensures that the PSR Tutorial legacy remains strong. Rest assured - the PSR Tutorial community is in capable hands and poised for continued growth and innovation well into the future.

Honoring Roger Brenizer’s Contributions

We sincerely thank Roger Brenizer for his years of hard work, leadership, and vision. His efforts built a community that inspires musicians, fosters learning, and brings people together through a shared love of Yamaha keyboards. The knowledge, friendships, and music created here will continue to thrive for generations to come.

Join the PSR Tutorial Community Today!

Whether you're a professional Yamaha keyboardist or just discovering the joy of playing, the PSR Tutorial Forum is the perfect place to learn, share, and connect. Join us and become part of a passionate community that celebrates music, creativity, and friendship.

🎹 Stay inspired. Keep playing. Join the PSR Tutorial Forum now!