Jeffrie Givens was the shyest career counseling client I've ever had. She readily admits that cadavers are less stiff.
She was seeking a job in fundraising research. Even though that's a behind-the-scenes job, I knew her job search prospects were dim unless I could get her to become less shy.
Her hobby is singing and I asked her to sing for me. Indeed stiff as a cadaver. I then showed her videos of great performers doing the same song. She improved immediately.
I kept working with her and not only does she now have a great job--fundraising researcher for Children's Hospital in Oakland--she's become quite the performer.
She has received a standing ovation at every one of the five performances of her one-woman show, Big, Black, and Shy. Essentially it's the story of the person least likely to become a star. She's a Black Susan Boyle.
Here's 15 minutes of her singing to a packed house at The NoName in Sausalito. I accompany on the piano.
I love it! What a great story, Marty. Jeffrie has quite a talent, and it's great that you could help her show it to the world. She is quite the lucky one to have you as a coach -- and as an accompanist!
ReplyDeleteWhat a delightful experience, Marty, to see and hear you at the piano inviting Jeffrie to share her big, beautiful, charming self with us. I believe this might speak more to what your real gift is than whatever job title she has achieved. This makes me even happier to call you a friend, plus all the other reasons I already have.
ReplyDeleteHere, here!!
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