MARY MARGARET JOHNSTON
VOCALIST, PIANIST, DANCER
By Gerlind Dubey (12/5/2008)

“Meg” as she is known by her family, friends and fans, has always been passionate about music. The seventeen year old Ellicottville Central School senior is an active member of the ECS chorus. Meg credits her ECS experience and attending SUNY Fredonia high school music camp for tuning in to her talent. Adept at playing the Piano Meg also enjoys acting, dancing and art class. Like many other young, aspiring artists, music takes a back seat to Meg’s studies, she holds a 94 point average which she hopes will get her into the college of her choice; Berkelee College of Music in Boston

Massachusetts tops that list, Meg is also looking into Villa Maria in Buffalo and SUNY at Purchase.

Though Meg has had very little formal training she has been to Nashville for a 2 day group training under Renee Grant Williams who is known for her work with all the Country Music stars. Renee has trained Miley Cyrus, the Dixie Chicks and Bo Bice to name a few. She also consulted with famous vocal coach Diana Yampolsky in Toronto. Both sessions were met with positive feedback and encouragement to continue in her quest of being an entertainer.

According Meg, her drive toward performing is so immense, that she hopes it will eventually lead her towards a career in entertainment. Her love for Jazz is paramount she is constantly listening and inspired by jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and young Amy Winehouse. Though Jazz is her favorite, the mezzo-soprano can sing in just about any style.

Like so many gifted and talented people, soft spoken Meg is exceedingly shy, and lacks confidence off stage. Part of these traits may be related to her young age; however, it is a known fact that many, actually, most performers are excruciatingly shy.

It’s a different story when Meg steps on stage; Meg considers it an escape, with that she freely expressive on stage, and the mezzo soprano’s considerable gifts become apparent. Join this Meg Saturday, December 6th; she will be performing upstairs at Tips Up Café for donations to Project Christmas, a local charity that has always been very closely tied to the school. Accompanying Meg on Piano for the benefit is the talented Jim Ieda. Meg will be singing Christmas Carols in keeping with the magic of the holiday season.