Young Piano Star Hits Big Stage

John Michael Klein, a 13-year-old from Lakewood, is about to play at the famous Carnegie Hall in New York. This is a big deal for any musician, but especially for someone so young. Mikey, as his friends call him, has been practicing a lot to get here. He won a competition online, and that's how he got this chance. Mikey's journey with music is quite short. Just three years ago, he wasn't even into music that much. He started with the trombone because he thought the slide was cool. But then he began playing a small keyboard at home. His parents noticed he was getting pretty good, so they got him a bigger keyboard. Soon, he was playing real pieces. Now, he has a baby grand piano and has taken many lessons. Mikey has won several competitions. He took first prize in a big competition in England. He also won the Charleston International Piano Competition and another one that got him to Carnegie Hall. He's played in many places, including a recent show celebrating a famous musician. Mikey's teacher, Beth Hankins, says he's very talented. She says Mikey thinks in music and loves playing the piano. He's always practicing and learning new things. His future in music looks very bright. Right now, Mikey is getting ready for his big performance at Carnegie Hall. He's going to play a piece by Frédéric Chopin. He's a bit nervous, but he's excited too. He's grateful for all the attention he's getting and hopes people enjoy his music.