Never stop learning

Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out Jayne Trinette, a winner in the Patel Conservatory’s recent Tampa’s Got Talent, in her Tribute to Lena Horne at American Stage.

As an actor and singer with Broadway experience under her belt, Jayne Trinette thought no one but New York theater professionals could train her.

Trinette, 40, relocated from New York to Ybor City two years ago with her husband. She teaches acting classes at the Ybor Art Studio. 

Last year, when Trinette was developing the idea for a cabaret show with American Stage, she enrolled in the Patel Conservatory’s Musical Theater Cabaret class.

“I know how to be in front of people and sing, but putting a show together where you can musically arrange things to work for you, I needed to gain that experience,” said Trinette. “Ashley Fisher taught me elements I was not aware of...she gave me expert advice on things like how to put the show together and engaging your audience. I feel empowered by that.

Once I took the classes, I knew exactly how to go about it.”

Pianist James Crumbly Jr. was the accompanist for the class.

“He can play anything. I thought, it just keeps getting better,” said Trinette, who ended up partnering with Crumbly for A Tribute to Lena Horne.

Trinette was so enamored with the Patel Conservatory that she signed up for several more classes. This past summer, she enrolled in six classes, including two dance classes, the cabaret class, Jazz Voice Ensemble and On-Camera Acting.

Excited to hone her skills, Trinette hadn’t counted on the advantage of having a performance at the end of each class. Most classes at the Patel Conservatory include a final performance to put into practice the skills acquired.

“I just wanted to take classes and learn some things, I had no idea we’d be having a performance. It was a big plus,” she said.

It was her classmates who encouraged Trinette to participate in Tampa’s Got Talent. She assumed scholarships would be awarded to children and hadn’t counted on winning anything.

To her surprise, she found out on her 40th birthday that she’d won a voice scholarship.

“It’s wonderful to be rewarded for your hard work,” said Trinette. Though acting and singing are her profession, she considers herself a lifelong student.

“Whatever job you have, always go to workshops, always go to seminars. Learn what you haven’t learned before, and learn with people who are as excited about it as you are.”

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional like Trinette, there’s always room to grow and new experiences to explore at the Patel Conservatory.

Trinette's Tribute to Lena Horne continues this weekend, Sept. 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. at American Stage in St. Petersburg.