By Special to the Town Crier

John Reed of Los Altos is one of the classic breed of Silicon Valley dwellers called a “hardware engineer.” Since the mid-1960s, Reed’s career has involved the design and development of semiconductor memory chips.

But those around town who know him know there’s a lot more going on than just the technical stuff. Reed’s been involved in several political campaigns from the local to the national level. And among his many talents, Reed also sings.

Reed, who has lived in Los Altos with wife Jane since 1968, has been singing “since about the time I could talk,” he said. In the past, he’s sung in choirs, at weddings and funerals, and in a number of opera choruses. In recent years, his lyric baritone has developed under vocal coach Michael Morris.

Reed always has loved ballads, songs and arias that allow the singer to express emotions. This love culminated in Reed’s recently released second album, “Gentleman Songster.” Each song on this CD was chosen for that quality. The selections are mostly from the mid-20th century, although one maverick dates back to 1607.

To accompany his voice, Reed selected Dmitriy Cogan, a native Russian and keyboard wizard who has been working with the piano since he was six. Cogan debuted in America at the age of 12 with San Mateo’s Peninsula Symphony. He has achieved international acclaim including a recital at Carnegie Hall. Since 1985, he and violinist Alexander Markov have performed throughout North America and Asia, and have recently released a CD of their own. Cogan lives near San Francisco and recently performed at a concert commemorating the 50th anniversary of the United Nations.

His renown notwithstanding, Cogan enjoys participating in local musical activities. He and Reed met while Cogan was the accompanist for The Aurora Singers, a Palo Alto chorus. Reed was very pleased and honored to have Cogan accompany him on the “Gentleman Songster” album.

To sample or purchase “Gentleman Songster” ($15), logon to www.cdbabv.com/johnreed or call 903-2259.

Songs that touch the heart

The “Gentleman Songster” album contains the following songs:

1.Scotch And Soda

2.There Is A Ladye

3.Angel Eyes

4.Misty

5.A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square

6.Georgia On My Mind

7.Green Fields

8.Sweet Little Jesus Boy

9.Goin’ Home

10. Brother Can You Spare A Dime?

11. Empty Chairs At Empty Tables

12. Once Upon A Time

13. On The Street Where You Live

14. They Were You

15. Desert Song

16. Come To Me, Bend To Me

17. Jean

18. So In Love

19. When I Have Sung My Songs