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Myrna Orenstein (88)
Former singer with the Lyric Opera and CSO choruses; PhD Institute for Clinical Social Work; practicing therapist; author
I started singing professionally at 19 and sang for about 25 years. Then I had a memorable conversation with a fellow singer. I told her that I had been married for 20 years. She looked at me with her big blue eyes and said “Myrna, I’m not even 20 years old yet.” Clearly singing was for younger folks and it was time for a change of careers.

I had always loved talking to people and listening to their stories. Even in my youth, I loved asking questions to learn from others. So becoming a clinical social worker (psychotherapist) seemed like the right next step. I still celebrate making that move.