That said, when they edit all the pieces together, "Michele Legrand & Friends" will make for decent, though not great television viewing. The show featured the legendary composer, a magnificent orchestra, and name vocalists, all combining to present a comprehensive songbook of Legrand's greatest hits and iconic film scores.

With a couple of exceptions, the vocalists selected to appear in the show did not live up to their past glories. Patti Page, in fragile voice at age 82, forgot the words to "Summer Me, Winter Me" half way through her performance.  Dionne Warwick and Melissa Manchester joined with Legrand in a vocal performance of "The Windmills of Your Mind" that was a disorganized mess. It was the same during Andy Williams and Legrand's vocal rendition of "I Will Wait for You."

On a positive note, there were two standout vocal performances during the evening. One was delivered by French-Canadian singer Mario Pelchat, whose rendition of "Un Parfum de fin du monde" was silky and passionate. And surprisingly, Las Vegas stalwart Steve Lawrence delivered the goods with his performance of a Legrand number from "Lady Sings the Blues."

While clips from "Yentl" played on screens in the background, the orchestra began with "No Wonder," which featured a marvelous harp interlude performed by Legrand's wife, Catherine Michel. The suite then continued with "A Piece of Sky," again accented by Catherine's melodious instrument before the entire orchestra joined in full crescendo. The medley ended, fittingly, with the best known music from the score, "Papa, Can You Hear Me?". Simply put, Legrand's new "Pieces of the Sky" arrangement soared.

We expected a bit of a Barbra discussion when Alan & Marilyn Bergman were brought out to talk with Legrand. After all, their collaborations with Streisand have been monumental. That didn't happen, but these three legendary composers had some of the most heartfelt things to say to each other. When Legrand told the Bergmans, With the genius that you write, it's so easy to put a few notes underneath, Marilyn responded that it's because there are words on the tips of your notes. It warmed the soul to witness such sweet admiration and respect.

As for Barbra Streisand herself, many wondered why she didn't participate in the evening's program. The answers are simple. This was the taping of a television program, not really a "tribute" in the true sense of the word. The production level was no where near as sophisticated as the last time Barbra guest starred on a musical variety special ("Tony Bennett An American Classic" in 2006). And given the quality of some of the sub-par vocal performances on stage, Barbra's participation would have needlessly shown everyone else up. She was wise to stay at home.

"Michel Legrand & Friends" will be broadcast later this year on PBS.

Here is the evening's complete set list in order: