Al Berkman; Vocal Coach, Producer, Author of Books on Singing

Al Berkman, 82, producer, author, musician, arranger and vocal coach for such singers as Eddie Fisher, Vic Damone and Linda Ronstadt. During the 1930s, Berkman played clarinet and saxophone with big bands and then became an arranger for Sammy Kaye, Cab Calloway and others. During World War II, he produced variety shows for military personnel, earning public praise from Eleanor Roosevelt. After the war, Berkman produced radio and television shows in Philadelphia before relocating to Hollywood in 1949. In addition to his voice coaching, he wrote about a dozen how-to books on singing and public speaking. He continued producing entertainment programs for hospital patients and senior citizens until his death. On Tuesday on a cruise ship near San Diego.