Bernice Crow is not a famous name in the music industry, but she is the mother and the first piano teacher of one of the most successful singers of all time: Sheryl Crow. Bernice Crow has been a source of inspiration and support for her daughter throughout her career, and has also been involved in some of her musical projects. In this article, we will explore the life and achievements of Bernice Crow, and how she influenced Sheryl Crow's musical journey.
## Early Life and Education
Bernice Crow was born in Kennett, Missouri, a small town in the southeast corner of the state. She grew up in a musical family, as her father was a violinist and her mother was a pianist. She learned to play the piano from her mother, and developed a passion for music at a young age. She also sang in the church choir and played the organ.
Bernice Crow attended the University of Missouri, where she majored in music education. She met her future husband, Wendell Crow, who was a law student and a trumpet player. They married in 1957 and settled in Kennett, where Wendell practiced law and Bernice taught piano lessons at home.
## Raising Sheryl Crow and Her Siblings
Bernice Crow and Wendell Crow had three children: Sheryl, Karen, and Steve. Bernice Crow was a devoted mother who encouraged her children to pursue their interests and talents. She taught Sheryl how to play the piano when she was six years old, and also exposed her to various genres of music, such as classical, jazz, blues, and country. She also enrolled Sheryl in ballet, tap, and gymnastics classes, and supported her involvement in school activities, such as choir, band, and theater.
Bernice Crow also helped Sheryl develop her confidence and independence. She once told her daughter, "You can do anything you want to do, and you don't need a man to do it." She also taught her to be resilient and optimistic, especially when Sheryl faced challenges such as breast cancer and a brain tumor.
Bernice Crow was equally supportive of her other children, Karen and Steve, who also pursued careers in music. Karen became a music teacher and a singer-songwriter, and Steve became a lawyer and a musician. Bernice Crow often attended their performances and cheered them on.
## Collaborating with Sheryl Crow
Bernice Crow has not only been a mother and a teacher to Sheryl Crow, but also a collaborator and a friend. She has appeared in several of Sheryl Crow's albums, such as "Tuesday Night Music Club", "The Globe Sessions", and "Detours". She has also performed with her on stage, such as at the 2002 Winter Olympics, the 2005 Grammy Awards, and the 2019 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. She has also accompanied her on tours and travels around the world.
Bernice Crow has also been involved in some of Sheryl Crow's philanthropic and environmental causes, such as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the World Food Program, and the Natural Resources Defense Council. She has also helped Sheryl raise her two adopted sons, Wyatt and Levi, who call her "Nana".
## Conclusion
Bernice Crow is a remarkable woman who has dedicated her life to music and her family. She has been a positive and influential force in Sheryl Crow's career and personal life, and has also shared her musical gifts with many others. She is a testament to the power of music and motherhood, and a role model for aspiring musicians and parents alike.