MUSE • Musicians United for Social Equity

Biography

Born and raised in South Florida, Emmanuel “Manny” Vidales discovered his passion for music early on, starting piano lessons at the age of six. His musical journey led him through renowned music magnet schools and eventually to Florida State University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Music in Music Theory & Composition. During his time at FSU, Manny immersed himself in accompanying classical and theatre voice lessons while studying piano and music composition under esteemed faculty.

While living in the Tallahassee area he played for FSU’s School of Theatre productions (Addams Family, Beauty and the Beast, Spamalot, Hairspray, All Shook Up), and has music directed and played in local community theatre (Hair, Avenue Q, Rocky Horror Show, Murder Ballad, Assassins, A Christmas Story, White Christmas, See What I Wanna See, The Drowsy Chaperone, Debbie Does Dallas, The Last Five Years, 9-5!) as well as led productions at the Tallahassee Community College (Spring Awakening, Pippin, Young Frankenstein, Schoolhouse Rock Live!)

Eager to further his musical education, Manny returned to FSU for a Master’s in Choral Conducting, delving into choral methods, teaching voice, behavior/psychology in music, and jazz arranging while serving as a Graduate Teaching Assistant and pianist for the Choral Department; which included playing for the Chamber Choir, Collegiate Men, Choral Union, Vocal Jazz and Graduate Conducting classes.

His dedication to music education extended beyond the university walls, serving as an accompanist for various prestigious events such as Middle School All-State and Thespian competitions in the Orlando Area.

To expand his expertise, Manny sought mentorship from industry leaders, including former NATS president Kimberly Randall Saunders, to deepen his understanding of vocal anatomy to promote healthy and sustainable singing practices.

His journey then took him to Miami, where he collaborated with institutions like: New World School of the Arts and College as the Collaborative Vocal Coach and Accompanist, as well as working with the Miami Children’s Voice Choir, enriching the musical lives of students in his community.

Now based in New York City, Manny desires to make his mark on Broadway as an orchestrator, arranger, conductor, and music director. He has already made significant strides, participating in workshops (Macbeth In Stride, SHESUS, The Amazing Mr. X, Disney Theatrical Group Project), and serving as a pianist and vocal technician for College Auditions Prep @ MTCA (playing for Pace University, Syracuse, USC, and Carnegie Mellon).

His talent and dedication have been recognized through prestigious programs such as the MUSE 2023 Mentorship Program, and recipient of the newly created 2023 BMEP (Broadway Musician Equity Partnership) with sponsors from the MOME (Mayors Office of Media and Entertainment) & Local 802 Musicians Union, allowing him to forge invaluable connections with Broadway’s leading music directors and conductors.

Currently, Manny serves as the Music Director and Orchestrator at Tada! Youth Theater in Lower Manhattan, where he continues to inspire and uplift young talent through the power of music and performance.