Music to your ears

Ken Johnston

This Saturday one of Rainy River’s own will give something back to the community.
Norma-Jean Johnston has decided to share her musical talents with the residents of Rainy River by holding her first ever recital.
Singing since she was a little girl, it has only been the past four years that she has been taking voice lessons with teacher Reneé Martin Brown of Emo. Now she wants to share what she has learned with the public.
“I remember what Reneé told me early on, ‘your voice is your voice God gave you. You can’t do anything about it. Singing is 20% voice and 80% brain,’” said Johnston. “I am still learning.”
The one hour recital will take place at the Knox United Church in Rainy River this Saturday at 7 p.m. and is free to the public.
Joining her on piano, will be her mother, Jean Heard, who at 82 is participating in her very first recital as well. Also accompanying Johnston will be Jacquie Dufresne on piano and Kitty Gale on flute. Her teacher, Reneé Martin Brown, will also sing a duet with her.
“I am going to sing a little bit of everything. Some sacred, classical, folk, contemporary and opera,” explained Johnston.
Johnston has sent out invitations to close family and friends but wants everyone in the community to feel welcome to come to the recital. “The public is welcome to come to the church.”