Kaelin also has continued to work with Riggs, who retained him to establish an international program that uses Riggs' method to teach vocals. Kaelin has been training teachers in Austria, Australia, Holland, Ireland and Poland.

The musical aspirations of Bob and Melba have been realized in another generation. Kaelin has made a career out of music. His five children are all musical — they take regular lessons from their father at his studio, where his wife, Susan, doubles as office secretary.

Sarah won a Broadway role in her first audition. Anna is honing her songwriting and producing skills in Nashville. Alison was awarded a musical theater scholarship to the College of Western Wyoming. Roby and Joey both play instruments and sing.

"My parents' legacy has continued," Kaelin says.

With the success of his students on "American Idol," these are heady days for the teacher with the small studio in Salt Lake City. "Things are really busy now," Kaelin says during a phone call. Then he apologizes and excuses himself.

Archuleta is on the other line.

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E-mail: drob@desnews.com