The signing attorney. Dubbed the "Catholic John Denver," Ned Tonner's releases "As You Are" and "Take Time" embody an up-beat folk-rock acoustic guitar style and capture the melodic simplicity of your favorite John Denver tune. "People often say I sou

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As You Are

Ned Tonner is an accomplished and successful lawyer. His lovely wife, Shari and three daughters, Elizabeth (8), Laura (5) and Emily (3) know him as a dedicated family man. He enjoys singing, and he says music has always been a part of his life. However, he's been waiting for the right time to pursue his musical career.

Ned began playing piano at age six. "My grandfather, Paul Tonner, was a big influence. He served as a music professor at St. Joseph's College, in my hometown in Rensselaer, Indiana. He also wrote and published over 100 church songs. So, I was naturally attracted to Catholic church music and began playing guitar mass at age 10," Ned says.

After receiving a Finance degree at Indiana University, he attended law school at The University of Tulsa, and it was during that time that he attended his first Christian concert, where Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith were performing. "I was 24 and interested in pursuing music. It was exciting to see Christian artists using their musical talents to share the Gospel." remembers Ned. "But, I was also dedicated to finishing law school," he adds.

After graduation, Ned tried to find a way to practice law and still use his musical background. He was hired by a California law firm, who also represented entertainment clients. This provided him with an opportunity to meet various entertainers and learn more about the music business. He also met Pat Boone, who took an interest in his endeavors. He also began representing Christian artists as well as Christian record companies. "In Los Angeles, I really experienced what is involved in the music industry," he says.

Having practiced law for 14 years and having been exposed to a variety of settings, Ned has had the opportunity to gain various experiences, and has lived in different cities throughout the United States. Chicago, Los Angeles, Tulsa and Bloomington, Indiana are among the cities he has lived in. "The practice of law has provided me with an avenue to minister to people on a daily basis," comments Ned.

Now that Ned has established his marriage, family and Indiana law practice, he feels the Lord has given him the opportunity to pursue music. Ned recently released his debut project, "As You Are," a collection of 10 original songs, which features a folk-rock John Denver sound and style.

"I have always been involved in ministry and desire to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with others," says Ned. "As You Are" is co-written with friends and family. Overall, the project shares his life experiences, relationships and encourages believers to seek the Lord first in their lives.