Lou Gazzara and Joey Pero Release 'O Holy Night' to Help Friend With Brain Cancer

Troy Schmidt is currently battling Glioblastoma or “GBL”, a progressive form of brain cancer.
by BWW News Desk Dec. 18, 2020

American Idol season 2 finalists Lou Gazzara and Broadway actor/trumpet recording artist Joey Pero have released O Holy Night, dedicated to longtime friend and Erie, PA resident Troy Schmidt who is currently battling Glioblastoma or "GBL", a progressive form of brain cancer.

Pero and Schmidt met while performing in the Drum and Bugle Corps activity 20 years ago. "Troy is one heck of a brass musician and friend" Pero said. In late September, 2020, Schmidt asked to hear Pero perform his favorite Christmas tune, O Holy Night written by Adolphe Adam. Pero immediately jumped into action "This is the fastest I've ever turned around a recording project" He said. Schmidt, 58 has had a difficult past several years. His wife Amy, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2015 and has deteriorated rapidly to the point of unawareness prior to his own diagnosis. "Troy has remained positive and faithful throughout his difficult journey, always putting others first". Pero remarked.