I am multi-tasking a bit; As my dad would say, "Sport, you have that big ol' Donny Osmond grin across your face!" I'm making the playlist for next week's "Beats per minute." My flight is booked, itinerary is being finalized, countdown has begun. I've had a few folks ask, how did it happen? Well, here's how...
3/30/11
Dear Karen,
My name is Joey Klei. I live in Portland, Oregon and would like to plan a trip to L.A. and take one of your classes.
Here's a bit about me: Grew up in the farmlands of Michigan listening to 33's borrowed from the county library with wide eyes and tons of curiosity. I headed to college and put myself in credit card debt taking dance classes and voice lessons with a dream of being like the folks I heard on the records.
It's been ten years since the graduation day and low and behold, I'm a pretty successful character actor working the musical theatre boards in Portland. Love the scene here; Musical Theatre companies are celebrating 20 years or more with new companies popping up every year! Though it's not profitable, I am defined as a "working actor"; and that makes me happy.
So far, I have had the opportunity to meet and work with Donna McKechnie and Harvey Evans. SHOOT, I got to watch "West Side Story" next to Harvey, ride a few roller coasters and witness the 17 year cicadas in Cincinnati on a mini road trip! I have a dream of meeting folks that inspire me everyday.
I'm a fan of yours and would like an opportunity to get some instruction. I would like to ask permission to audit and audition for one of your Saturday classes, possibly sing a duet, shoot the bull over a cup of java and with your permission write about it on my blog:
www.cockeyedoptismistpdx.blogspot.com
I thank you for your time and with fingers crossed tightly, can't wait for your response.
"Embrace the unexpected and let the fates devise a stunning, cunning, wonderful surprise" - Mel Brooks
RESPONSE:
4/4/11
Hi Joey,
The fastest thing to do is to go to my web-site www.karenmorrow.com and see the schedule and other info. I hope it is clear enough and helps you make plans.
Thanks,
Karen
RESPONSE:
4/20/11
Karen,
Thanks for your reply. I have gone ahead and booked a flight to LA with plans to attend the Saturday, May 21st Workshop. Would you like payment in advance? Would you be interested in a video or sound audition before my arrival? I have to admit, I am quite excited and working on a couple of pieces with my vocal coach; who is also quite excited about this experience. Would you have the time to have a cup of coffee with me and share a story or two about your time in NYC or any other madcap experience that may be too good to be true? Could I talk you into singing a duet or two with me? I have two in mind, "How Could You Believe Me..." from ROYAL WEDDING and "Just in Love" from CALL ME, MADAM.
I want to thank you in advance for helping this corn fed widwestern boy make a possibility a reality.
I look forward to recieving your instruction and hopefully sharing a laugh or two!
Joey
RESPONSE:
4/22/11
Hi Joey,
Thanks for your interest. Let me tell you a little about my class... it's usually small! We have just done our showcase and folks usually don't rev up til after summer. Each person does one song and I give them help and guidance with that and whatever comes up as an expample of something. I don't sing with the students in the interest of time and decorum!!!!! As for coffee, maybe we could go to Starbucks near the class around noon. I don't know what your expectations are, regarding the class, but I hope they are not more that what I just told you. No need to pay or audition in advance. Keep me posted.
And thanks,
Karen
RESPONSE
4/22/11
Karen.
That's exactly what I was hoping for; I'm just a midwestern boy at heart searching for opportunities to meet some legends! Help and guidance from a pro like you will benefit me for a lifetime. Starbucks at noon sounds perfect, I only ask you let me treat and maybe I could snap a picture?
Take care and GOSH, do I look forward to meeting you!
See you in a month and HAPPY EASTER!
Joey
It would have never entered my mind that such a thing could happen, but it has. I challenge you to find something and follow your heart and just ask... You never know what the world will hand you!
Find a song, tap your toe, pass a smile and say hello! This world is short, but beautiful! You can do it, with a song in your heart!
Until next time; life CAN be a musical!
