In my interviews with various artists, I came across the website of Sarah Donner. I was impressed with her love of animals [including cats] and her artistic talent. I invited her to be interviewed and she accepted. The rest is history.

1. When did you decide to embark on a musical career?

When I started studying for the AP Bio test in high school, I found my true calling. I had been toying with the idea of being a marine biologist. My heart was torn between a life of science and a life of music. I could not get my head around the citric acid cycle, and that was the turning point. 
 
2. You said in your webpage that your «cold New England heart was transplanted to New Jersey». Where were you originally from in New England and how did you make the transition to New Jersey?

I was born and raised in New Bedford MA, the whaling city capital of the world back when harpoons were all the rage. I left to attend Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ, and I transitioned my life to balance in between the states.
 

3. What was the inspiration behind your album «Typing Is Dangerous»? How long did it take you to record «Typing Is Dangerous»?

Typing Is Dangerous was recorded over the course of 3 months in my studio. Most of the tunes are influenced directly by the stories of my friends and family. A great deal of the energy in The Cycles The Circles came from my yearning to make music my full time job. Thankfully, I think I’m getting really, really close.
 

4. What was the inspiration for your first album «Reluctant Cat Lady»?  How long did it take you to record «Reluctant Cat Lady»?

My first album was a starting point for me to get my music out there. There was quite a learning curve! Only a few tunes mention cats, but my cats are always in the room when I’m writing.
 

5. You are currently going on tour. Where will you be performing?

I am on tour right this second! OH, Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Omaha, Lincoln NE, Denver, St. Louis, Kansas City, Nashville, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Durham NC, and Cincinnati. Keep a check on my website for more dates! 
 

6. Will you one day perform in Florida in the future?

I certainly hope so! Right now a good deal of touring depends on the locations of friends, family, and fans. Once I know they are there I’m keen on hitting Florida!
 

7. I admire you for your love of cats. How many cats do you have? How did you develop a love for cats?

I have four cats full time in my apartment. I foster kittens regularly, so sometimes we have an added 4-6 kittens. I am an animal person in general. On tour, I go to a lot of zoos and aquariums. Years ago I saw a kitten eating a bagel from my trash. I started putting out kibble, and it was all over from there.
 

8. What is your recommendation for those who want a career in music?

Patience, determination, humility, and kindness. Play out as much as you can; don’t underestimate a gig because of the venue or crowd size. Make it interesting. There are thousands of artists with guitars out there. It’s not enough to play or sing well anymore. Figure out a way to set yourself apart and engage your audience. 
 
9. Do you have any message for the public? 

Keep those kitties spayed or neutered, and please don’t declaw! You can find my tunes and tour dates at www.sarahdonner.com.

 

Thank you Sarah for accepting my invitation and my best wishes for you.