Programs

A Hero Shows Respect

Lisa and her friends explain what respect and responsibility look like in our daily lives and how living that way makes you a hero! What does it mean to be respectful and responsible? Meet a young man named Sherwood - played by a brave volunteer from the audience - who learns what happens when you are NOT respectful and responsible. Lisa's friends Lily, Shiloh, Jemimah and Theo share a few ideas that the children can use in order to show respect and responsibility. This show will help your school or library build character values into the programing you provide and can also be used in connection with Anti-Bullying and Character Counts education. Includes: Prizes for all children!

Program Type: Puppeteers

Ages: Children

A Tribute to “Ella” - Music of the Ella Fitzgerald songbook

Vocalist Perley Rousseau and pianist Sonny Daye along with guest bassist and drummer Ted Mac Kensie (co-author of the revised edition of Buddy Rich’s Snare Drum Rudiments) present a concert filled with warmth and humor highlighting the life and music of Ella Fitzgerald from her Apollo Theatre debut at age 16 to her retirement. Ella was the first recorded voice Perley heard as a child and was greatly influenced by her music and has an affinity for her style. Signature songs such as Tisket A Tasket, How High The Moon, and The Lady Is A Tramp are included along with memorable choices from her Great American Songbook Series. Audience response to this show has been tremendously enthusiastic!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Abiyoyo Finding Creative ways to solve a Giant Problem!

Abiyoyo Finding Creative ways to solve a Giant Problem! - In 2006 Spook was commissioned by the New Jersey Arts Council to compose new songs for a theatrical adaptation of Pete Seeger's children's stories "Abiyoyo" about a giant who comes to town and creates all sorts of problems and the ten year old boy who comes up with creative ways to deal with them. This lively 35 - 45 minute one-man show includes telling the story of Abiyoyo, songs and sing-alongs, and a touch of theatrics. School students and other children help the young boy discover the most creative answers to the giant problem. Great for the whole family or K-4 Assemblies. This program incorporates NJ Core Curriculum Standards: 1.5, 3.4, 6.1, 6.2, 6.4 and 6.6.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Alternative Strings

Alternative Strings - As a high school orchestra director, and professional violinist, alternative strings is my passion. Developing a curriculum for alternative strings comes down to keeping our music programs vital and contemporary. For students, it's an exploration of world music, fiddle, blues, jazz, and improvisation. In a way, when I have performed a workshop- it is almost a "world tour" of the violin- from classical or baroque music, all the way to strings you'd hear on pop radio today. Keeping string curriculum and orchestra current and relevant for young musicians is a huge part of my music advocacy and recruiting program!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

America's Story through Folk Songs

America's Story through Folk Songs traces American Folk Music from Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger through today. Honoring the great traditions of American roots music, songs inspired by the Dust Bowl, Great Depression, Civil Right Movement, 60's and 70's Peace Movement and more recent issues are presented with a completely contemporary sound and unabashedly positive sensibility. The passion, purpose and spirit of American folk music is alive and well. An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

American Children: Friends and Family Songs with Singer/Songwriter: Marc Black

The line between songs for kids and songs for adults disappears in this program. Marc's sense of humor and his ability to make his audience feel good about themselves seems to have no age limits. You’ll experience all kinds of songs; one about Marc’s love of his dog, another about the importance of picking up the litter. You’ll hear original songs that Marc has sung at peace rallies with Pete Seeger as well as some surprising sing-alongs from the sixties like Wooly Bully and the Beatles’, Help. Marc wrote the lyrics and music to the song, American Children, originally sung by Richie Havens. It was the title track to an album that he produced. It won the American Library Association award for the Best Children’s Album and the title track was featured for several years as the opening song on WBAI radio’s children’s hour. Beside Mr. Havens, Marc rounded up a super-talented crew for this project including Taj Mahal, John Sebastian, Maria Muldaur and many more. Marc’s live presentation of these songs is the core of this program. It’s a great entertainment for kids and grownups alike. “ ‘American Children’ is a beauty,” Peter Seeger

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children

Anti-bullying and Respect For Others

In this program, Bonnie Lee uses stories and songs to engage her audience in this important and serious topic. She uses personal experiences and encourages kids to walk in another’s shoes, to create empathy and respect. She talks and sings about peer pressure, which is something that even adults experience, and challenges the kids to recognize these behaviors and to realize that they have choices in how they choose to act. Some songs that may be included in the program are “Do I Believe in Me? (The Tommy song),” “Don’t Laugh at Me,” “Before You Hit Send.

Program Type: Other

Ages: Children

Anything Goes” ~ A Tribute to Cole Porter

Known for his sophisticated wit and playful style, Cole Porter was unique among the Great American composers. Born to wealth, his apprenticeship took place not in Tin Pan Alley but in the playgrounds of Europe. In his lyrics and melodies he fixed the smartness and cynicism, the lack of inhibitions in speech and behavior, and the the outright iconoclasm that characterized the 1920s. In their inimitable style, Sonny & Perley present a unique selection of music from his vast library of popular songs.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Appalachia to Bluegrass Americana

Susie Glaze & The Hilonesome Band have been delighting audiences large and small now for almost eleven years. In their tribute to the great American folk music pioneer Jean Ritchie, they share with audiences the great, rich traditional music that came to this country along with the first immigrants from England, Ireland and Scotland, settling in the Eastern mountains of Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia. Along with string band sounds, incorporating indigenous traditional instruments such as Mountain Dulcimer, Autoharp and hollow-backed, old-time banjo, they perform a cappella many of the ballads that came to be known as the Child Ballads, as well as lighter, "play party" songs for children, and tunes written in the early life of the immigration population in this country. They then show how the form of Bluegrass music sprung naturally from the old forms, also bringing in songs from contemporary composers of American roots music living songwriters employing the older forms in order to demonstrate how the old forms endure and are being used to tell new stories in the old way.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

April In Paris - Springtime and Romance

Great American Songbook Standards and French love songs performed with the heartbeat of aesthetic Jazz. This concert is lovely with added upright bass, and really swings with drums and woodwinds. The music of Cole Porter, Johnny Mandel, Jerome Kern, Edith Piaf and notable others are presented with arrangements as refreshing as springtime itself. Premiered at the world renown cabaret room "The Duplex" in NYC resulting in a standing ovation and calls for encore! Includes songs I Love Paris, Night and Day, A Time for Love, All The Things You Are, If I Were A Bell, and a fabulous new arrangement of April In Paris! Chronogram Magazine says Sonny and Perley are "Harbingers of aesthetic jazz and romanticism"

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Around America and Back Again

Around America and Back Again is a fun-packed program for children or the whole family that is sure to open your heart and leave you with fond memories for years to come. I think back often to when I was a kid singing many of these very same songs around the campfire. And I still love singing them today. Sing along to and learn stories behind some of Americas favorite folk songs. Touching broadly on Americas beautiful landscape and important periods in its history, this program is a fun and interactive way to learn geography, history and the values and principals upon which this nation was formed. * Hey Spook, I've seen the families who attended your show and the parents told me they really enjoyed it. A couple of the kids were still singing the songs you did Comin' 'Round the Mountain and The Finger & Thumb Song. Diane Cann, West Deptford Public Library, NJ Great for the whole family or K-6 Assemblies. This program incorporates NJ Core Curriculum Standards: 1.5, 3.4, 6.1, 6.2, 6.4 and 6.6.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Attaining the Groove

An Oldtime Fiddle and Banjo Workshop In this workshop Dana and Susan discuss the fiddle and banjo in the context of old-time music in Southern Appalachia. They illustrate the concept of attaining the groove, focusing on the rhythmic and melodic relationship between fiddle and banjo. They will choose a tune and teach it to the group, breaking out into fiddle and banjo sections and then reuniting for a slow- jam session all together. (Guitars and basses also welcome.)

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Bardy Women: Wild women in Shakespeares plays and times

Kate, Beatrice, Jaquenetta and Queen Margaret: Shakespeares women were some of the most powerful and influential characters in the Bards plays in many ways ahead of their time. But even these early- day feminists werent nearly as colorful as some of the real women who lived in Shakespeares London during the 16th Century. From lives in religion, music, higher-education and crime, these women broke the mold and rocked the Tower of London! Told through monologues, anecdotes and a little creative conjecture, this performance explores the lives of some of the worlds greatest Renaissance women (and a few men who loved them)!

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Teen Adult

Basic Slide Guitar

For the player who wants to get started in the slippery world of slide guitar. Students are taught the basic techniques needed to play round-neck slide, bottleneck or resophonic guitar. Through live demonstrations and discussions, students will be introduced to techniques, forms and riffs of basic round neck slide guitar.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Blues came up the river....

As the itinerant workers moved from the farms to the urban centers in the aftermath of World War II, their blues moved with them, and evolved as they moved. The development of a more sophisticated "city/country blues", which surrounded the towns like Memphis, is represented in the selections by Roosevelt Sykes, Leroy Carr, Tampa Red, and Sleepy John Estes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Brazilian Romance - The Bossa Nova Phenomenon

The world discovered Bossa Nova in 1963 with the huge success of the master composer Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Girl from Ipanema"; simultaneously inspiring American Jazz and popular music with this "new wave". A collective smile spreads across faces when Sergio Mendez and Brazil 66 is mentioned and the first notes of "One Note Samba" are heard. Sonny & Perley together with guest musicians including Brazilian guitarist Jason Ennis and/or world percussionist Brian Melick capture the essence of the sultry romance and mesmerizing rhythm of Bossa Nova. Perley effectively draws the audience in with a fascinating narration and both English and Portuguese interpretations of lyrics. Hugely entertaining, enthusiastically received, educational and uplifting! The Post Star review says “To their Brazilian and American fans alike, Sonny & Perley have a style that is as irresistible and authentic as the Ipanema girl herself.”

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Breezin Along With The Blues ~ Everybody Loves The Blues

Husband and wife duo Sonny and Perley are well known for their playful presentation of classics from the Great American Songbook, Bossa Nova and International Cabaret traditions. In this concert they're having a ball with the blues! Back in the 1940s the currents of jazz and blues ran close together. This is the era they draw from with their lighthearted, jazzy spin on the blues. Sonny and Perley don't pine or bewail—they let loose with rhythm and humor, singing and playing songs of the human experience that get your feet tapping, fingers snapping, and put a smile on your face. Joining Sonny on keyboards and vocals, Perley on vocals and percussion, will be Jim Curtin on bass and vocals.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

CSI-Forensic Use of DNA in Criminal Investigations

You've seen how they use DNA to solve crimes on TV shows like CSI and NCIS, but how do they really do it? In this workshop, participants will investigate a crime scene and conduct a hands on DNA extraction using the same process used in crime labs. By the end, you'll actually see the DNA with your naked eye. This is an interactive session for (nearly) all ages.

Program Type: Science

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Celtic Fiddle Workshop/Masterclass

Emily Ann Thompson offers a class open to fiddlers or violinists of any level. She teaches the style, technique, and various ornaments that make up the Celtic fiddle sound such as bowing, cuts, turns, trills, slides, vibrato, and phrasing. She will also demonstrate the differences between the fiddle styles of the various Celtic nations. She will teach tunes from Ireland, Scotland, or Canada. In addition, she will listen to and give advice to individuals who volunteer to play for the class. A 60, 90, or 120 min. class is offered.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Celtic Harp

Kathleen Finnegans family hails from County Armagh in Northern Ireland. Through her harp she brings the history and culture of Ireland and other areas of the Celtic world to a variety of venues. Kathleen does a wonderful job of tailoring her performances and presentations to the age of the audience, giving history, background & sometimes specific stories of the music she plays, and an explanation of the instrument itself along with varying stages of the harps development throughout world history. She plays a variety of traditional music, both familiar and obscure, from Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Brittany & the European Continent and enjoys bringing the history and culture of the harp to audiences through music.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Celtic Love Songs & Ballads

Love is in the air, and where is it better expressed than in Celtic music? Did you know that the Relics of Saint Valentine are held at The Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland? Scotland and Ireland are famous with ballads of true love, and Matthew Gurnsey is ready to enthrall any audience with such selections as Danny Boy, Fields of Athenry, The Queen of Argyle, Wild Mountain Thyme, Loch Lomond, and many others.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Celtic Music

Matthew Gurnsey delights audiences with his rousing performances of traditional Irish and Scottish music. Through the marriage of wit and finesse, Gurnsey charms his audiences, sweeping them into tales of wayward voyages, unrequited love and the vibrantly colorful lives of the every-man beloved of many Irish tales. His unique talents with traditional Celtic instruments such as the concertina, bodhran, bones and mandolin, add an air of authenticity to each piece and his stirringly rich bass voice provides the foundation for the hauntingly beautiful melodies.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Celtic Music Children's Program

Irish music is alive and well in L.A.! Ken OMalley belts out a feisty blend of traditional and new Irish folk music. His passionate stories of his homeland will delight you with their humor and joy. Ken participated in the Los Angeles Philharmonic Education and Community Programs Hollywood Bowl 2011 with great success!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children

Celtic Music Concert with Emily Ann Thompson

Emily Ann Thompson performs on fiddle, foot percussion, piano (if available), Irish dance, and sings in English and Irish Gaelic. She performs with her husband Kelly on guitar, percussion, and vocals. This program covers a wide range of Celtic music from Ireland, Scotland, and Canada, featuring reels, jigs, hornpipes, polkas, clogs, strathspeys, airs, waltzes, and songs, and in addition Emily demonstrates the connection to American fiddle music. Their program is very dynamic, energetic, and educational and often people can’t resist clapping, tapping, singing, and even sometimes dancing! They also welcome questions throughout the program.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Celtic Tenor

The University of St. Thomas at Houston pronounces that Ken O'Malley is "widely regarded as the finest Irish folk singer/songwriter in the United States today" and the Irish News calls this consummate entertainer "without question, . . .the single most enduring, influential and proficient of all Irish musicians in Southern California . . ." In this captivating show, the Dublin born singer-songwriter will transport his audience to his beloved Ireland with his rich, resonant voice and engaging stage presence accompanied by his remarkable talent on guitar and mandolin. Your event promises to be a magical evening of music with songs in both English and Irish Gaelic, suitable for all ages. Not just a singer, about whom Dave Soyars of the Irish Herald writes "his powerful and emotive voice shines through on everything he does", OMalley is also a cultural ambassador and educator who infuses every performance with a genuine passion and love for his native land and its people. As longtime fan Mark Dresser says "the songs Ken sings touch all of us, Irish or not, to the very core of the human heart".

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Child of the Bayou

Songs and stories about growing up on the Louisiana Bayou. Always fascinated by the stories and characters from the Louisiana Bayou as a child, playwright/performer Terra Taylor Knudson combines fact with original fiction to recreate the whimsical life of a child growing up on the bayou. Complete with anecdotes about the family, the neighbors, Gator Ball and the infamous Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, Child of the Bayou brings out the Cajun spice and Mardi Gras charm of life in the French Quarter and down by the Blue Bayou.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Teen Adult

Children's Quiet Hour (ages 0-10)

Take a break at your local library. Join us for an hour of quiet music and stories. This program provides an interactive musical learning experience that is both relaxing and entertaining. Material includes familiar and original songs and stories. A great way to give both children and parents an hour to recharge.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Children's concert with Dr. Mary

"Dr. Mary" Kleinsorge shares songs to inspire kids to be all they can be. Between her original children's songs is a bit of classical guitar to plant seeds of curiosity in a young musical heart. The sing-a-long coloring book makes it easy to learn and sing along with these songs. From "Go the Extra Mile", a song written in memory of Grandpa Joe who was teaching lessons she didn't know she was learning while they were fishing, to "Me Bein' Me", a song of celebration about how special each one of us is. You'll come away with a catchy tune on your brain that leaves you smiling and feeling good about life and the possibilities for purpose.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Children’s shadow puppetry performance by Driftwood Fire & the internationally acclaimed Double Image Theater Lab

Discover the enchantment of story, as told through the eyes of a child. Spica Wobbe, Margot Fitzsimmons, Charlotte Formichella and Lynn Scharf of the New York based, Double Image Theater Lab, will take you into the whimsical and fantastic world of shadow, music and story. Experience this rare and encompassing live performance written for children and enjoyable for all.

Program Type: Puppeteers

Ages: Children

Classical Guitar concert with Dr. Mary

"Dr. Mary" Kleinsorge combines her life experiences in a journey through music and her classical guitar. You'll learn about the beginnings of guitar and how it relates to country, bluegrass, traditional classical and folk. You'll smile and sing along with songs that you remember and you'll love the original pieces that she's written for guitar and for her love of life and the people in it. From songs she played for the cows on the Kansas farm she grew up on to the flamenco flare and Spanish love songs her trips to Mexico have inspired. She might even throw a few playful songs on the five string banjo that will surprise you. You won't be bored and will come away with a new understanding of music and guitar.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Concert with Andina & Rich

The Act Recipe: mix Sandy Andina (Chicago's resident singing/guitar-and-dulcimer-slinging smart aleck) with Stephen Lee Rich (Madison, WI's friendly neighborhood yodeling cowboy), add harmony and humor, then shake and stir. Result: Andina and Rich! Their new CD, Two Guitars, A Dulcimer and an Attitude shows a musical diversity that most duos just dont have. From the delta style of Porchlight Blues to the contemporary feel of Talkin To The Vines to the wild comedy of Caffeine you get a show with something wonderful for every family member.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Concert with Barb Ryman

A natural storyteller with a deep compassion for the lost and forgotten voices of our culture, Barb Ryman expects music to be more than entertaining. With a crystalline voice and skillfully played guitar, Barb delivers a rich mosaic of contemporary folk, drawing from country blues, Celtic balladry, and old-time gospel/bluegrass. Ryman is distinguished for her ability to write music that heals. Having lost her father, a navy pilot, when she was four, Barb was intuitively drawn to the healing professions and became an accomplished speech-language therapist who helped children with special needs develop communication skills. Barb went on for her masters in counseling psychology, facilitated grief groups and delved into other spiritual pursuits. This background seamlessly integrated itself into her music, making her concerts both entertaining and restoring. Besides an unaffected sense of humor, Ryman possesses a sharp eye for social criticism and a truly moving compassion for human struggle.... - City Pages (Minneapolis/St Paul)

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Concert with Charlie Mosbrook

Songwriter Charlie Mosbrook, a two time Ironman triathlon finisher now living with a spinal cord injury, tells his story from the finish line of the worlds toughest endurance race to the first few steps out of a wheel chair. Through physical therapy and determination Charlie has learned how to live in a new body that doesn't do what it is accustomed to. With his family, friends, and community he draws on every strength to overcome his toughest challenge. Through his songs he finds the strength to move forward in the face of adversity. With the music of Woody Guthrie and other traditional songs, he demonstrates the power that music has always had to give us strength when we need it most.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Concert with Debra Cowan

Debra Cowan was once asked what kind of songs she writes. Her reply? Bad ones. Besides, there are so many good songs out there written by others and they should be sung. Her captivating warm alto carries each folk song she chooses with such emotion that youll forget that they were written by others. Debra Cowan is one of today's foremost interpreters of contemporary and traditional songs from England, Ireland, Scotland and North America. Debra has two acclaimed solo recordings to her credit, The Long Grey Line and Dad's Dinner Pail, both released on the independent recording label, Falling Mountain Music. Her third recording, Fond Desire Farewell produced by former Fairport Convention drummer Dave Mattacks is due to be released in early 2009. Debra has delighted audiences in folk music venues and festivals all over North America and the United Kingdom and makes her home near Worcester, MA.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Concert with Driftwood Fire

Driftwood Fire is constantly bridging the gap between traditional roots music and contemporary pop. They are the First Place winner of the 2007 International Narrative Song Competition's category for original Historical music as well as a VH-1 Suggested Artist. Like a beach-side bonfire celebrating the last days of summer, Driftwood Fire is at once invitingly lighthearted and poetically poignant. Lynn Scharf's vocals are thick with emotion, Charlotte Formichella's guitar and banjo parts are rootsy, inventive and pop-tastically ear-pleasing, making it nearly impossible to stay seated during songs like 'Blown Asunder' and 'Holes in the Sky,' while songs like 'Appalachian Hills' have a lyrical magnetism that leaves every room entirely focused on the performance at hand

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Concert with Mila Levine

Mila Levine is a Kiev-born singer-songwriter and poet from New York, whose Russian and English songs are filled with passion, longing, dreams, hope, and inspiration, and whose repertoire includes Russian, Gypsy, and Yiddish hits. Milas songwriting style blends influences from the legendary Russian Bard, Vladimir Visotsky, the world renown Charles Aznavour, as well as from the Russian gypsy and American pop and dance music. Her singing style has often been compared to Edith Piafs and Marlene Dietrich's. She has been writing poetry since she was seven, and songssince she was thirteen. Her music is a combination of European and American influences. Throughout her singing/songwriting career, Mila has performed all over New York State and beyond, in such famous songwriting venues as The Bottom Line (NYC), Sidewalk Caf (NYC), Caf Vivaldi (NYC), Two Boots (CT), Clinton Arts and Music Festival (Clinton, NY), SS Cape May Festival(NJ), as well as at some international venues.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Concert with Oba

Oba is innovative, energetic, professional and dedicated. During the past five years his programs have had long lasting, positive effects on school age youth, their parents, and community members. His interactive performances, storytelling, drama workshops and lectures involve participants in a stimulating variety of self-image, self-esteem building activities. Programs are designed to celebrate diversity. An engaging, interactive presentation of story and rhyme designed for the entire family. Obas use of rhythmic African Drum, with just the right blend of audience participation A sing-a-long, dance-a-long and have a frighteningly goooooood time - event Featuring: an interactive presentation of Maya Angelous story poem: Life Doesnt Frighten Me. Obas sing-a-long version of: There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly. By Permission of Jim May- Oba Will delight the audience with Obas Re-Telling of Boo-Baby Girl! Pre-K to Primary classes will have a ball singing along with old favorites: Great Green Gobs, Coffin Song, Harry Toe, The Harry Man, The magic pot, and Bring Back My Liver! New This Fall Can I bite your Neck, Is he Sleeping, and why does it smell like that! Two original stories by Oba William King Ive Got My Broom, But Wheres My Hat and Chupacabra At My Door! Older Children and Teens will enjoy Obas Adaptation of the Classic Tale Headless Horseman from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Re-told as: The Headless Horseman Rides the Magnificent Mile Appropriate for all ages, Family Style Assembly with Stories, Folk Tales, Songs, and Music. Oba William King effortlessly captures the audiences attention and gently releases them into the playful realm of rhythm and rhyme. He masterfully combines his professional theatrical training with a distinct poetic style. Oba is an entertaining educator sharing the traditional art form of storytelling, as if it were a sacred gift.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Concert with Steve Brooks

Cross two famous guys named Brooks - Garth and Mel - and you get Austin folksinger Steve Brooks. He's got a song for every occasion, from the sublime to the ridiculous and back. His tunes range from comic commentary and crackerbarrel philosophy to lyrical love ballads and sharp-edged snapshots of Texas and the world. "Steve is an extraordinary Austin songwriter," says Cyd Wright of Quillen's Coffeehouse. "His songs can be hysterically funny or tearfully sad." Best-known for writing a song-a-week for Jim Hightower's radio show, his work has been recorded by artists like Kevin So, Emily Kaitz and Slaid Cleaves, who calls him, "A great unsung songwriter of Austin." He's had music in two films and appeared in two more, including the 2004 release "Barbecue: A Texas Love Story." A master of words as well as music, he was featured on TV's "I've Got a Secret" as six-time World Pun Champion. When he's not in a coffeehouse or a beer joint, you can catch him behind a pulpit, guest-preaching on topics like songwriting and spirituality.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Concert with Walter Strauss

Walter's concerts are both a cultural and educational experience, a colorful mix of original songs and spirited international music played on the guitar. He paints a vivid backdrop with storytelling to set the stage for historical songs - exploring such topics as Native American history, or the attitudes and activities of early American settlers toward the natural environment. There is a rich multicultural component to his performances - Walter translates pieces from various world music traditions to the guitar, and offers very accessible demonstrations of the foundations underlying the music. Connections are made to show how music continually migrates and evolves across cultures.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Destination Inspiration

Every child is a storyteller –and in Destination: INSPIRATION, they learn how to bring it out! Our performer, author Jason Edwards, doesn't do those the author lectures the kids kinds of shows. We believe that children LEARN BY DOING, so Jason has developed an assembly program that reviews the fundamentals of story creation and then draws upon the students' own inspirations to collectively create and act out a story right there on the spot! This riotously entertaining, highly-interactive program is as limitless and creative as children’s imaginations because kids of all ages and levels of ability create characters and make up lines of dialog in this interactive, improvisational adventure No reading or writing skills are required for this assembly program. Slapstick humor abounds as Jason acts out the group’s narration, and he provides prompts, hints, and encouragement when it is time for children to deliver their lines or determine the next event in the plot. It may sound complicated, but virtually any child can successfully take part in this activity due to the clever scripting and the astounding improvisation skills of Mr. Edwards, author of Will Allen and the Great Monster Detective and its sequel, Will Allen and the Ring of Terror. After the assembly program has introduced the elements of great storymaking, the next step is to practice putting it all together. Jason follows up the assembly program by visiting classrooms with writing workshops in which he builds upon the concepts touched upon in the assembly performance and guides each student through the process of creating his or her own amazing stories! Every child writes a fantastic fable right then and there! These programs have been performed at dozens of schools and over 100 venues including the Southwest Florida Reading Festival, the Arkansas Literary Festival, the NYS Reading Association Literacy Festival, and the Hudson Children's Book Festival, and Jason’s improvisational skills, madcap antics, and gift for engaging young audiences have received overwhelming acclaim. Additionally, Jason provides ongoing feedback even after the programs are over - he remains available to the students and their teachers via e-mail, Skype, or Facebook.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen

Down on the South Side...

From 1950 to the 1990's, the urban communities in Detroit, Memphis, Oakland, and Chicago attempted to shed themselves of their "country" roots, and their music developed into a hard edged club and dance oriented blues sound, which itself evolved into more sophisticated Rhythm & Blues variant. The material selected from the repertoires of Muddy Waters, Howling Wolf, Albert King, Junior Wells, Luther Johnson, Little Walter, Willie Dixon, Otis Rush and Elmore James were selected because they represent development and evolution of the Electric Band sound over a thirty year cycle.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Ella Unplugged ~ An intimate Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald

Sonny & Perley present a duo version of "A Tribute to Ella" ~ highlighting music from her Great American Songbook recordings and a few choice selections from her Pablo Records albums with jazz guitarist Joe Pass. An intimate concert of vocals with piano accompaniment, including anecdotes from Ella's Apollo Theatre debut at age 16 to her retirement.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Essentials of Songwriting

Participants will learn basic esthetic, technical, artistic, and psychological aspects of modern songwriting. Participants can bring their own songs or poetry to class for constructive and encouraging review.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Expressive songwriting workshop for adults

This workshop is designed for the beginning songwriter as well as those who are a bit more advanced. We will use techniques that build confidence and keep a personal touch in songwriting. Attendees will be encouraged to perform songs they've written or, present ideas of things they'd like to write about. The group will talk about the songs in a supportive atmosphere that emphasizes the uniqueness of each person's perceptions and the resulting music. Marc has taught songwriting to all ages, from 9 years old to 90. He's written songs with stroke survivors who are fighting their way back and high school boys and girls who want to write about how misunderstood they are. Bottom line is, we all have things to say and Marc can help just about anyone put it in a song. Marc has taught this workshop at libraries, schools and in private settings.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Adult

Expressive songwriting workshop for kids

Workshop for elementary aged children and young adults. One and a half hour expressive songwriting workshops for kids: This workshop is designed for the beginning songwriter as well as those that are a bit more advanced. We will use techniques that build confidence and put playfulness into songwriting. We'll compose a song as a group and make recordings in mp3 format that the kids can email to themselves to keep if they like. Marc has experience writing songs in a wide range of styles and for a wide range of purposes. From commercial jingles to songs for the New York Mets, award winning children's songs to political anthems. He has taught this workshop at libraries, schools and in private settings. “Marc led the 3rd grade kids in a songwriting workshop. They wrote a song altogether, and then sang it and made a recording. They had so much fun. They must have talked about it for a month!” Michele Rappi, Katonah Elementary School parent

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen

Falling In Love With Richard Rodgers!

Richard Rodgers' contributions to the musical theatre of his day were extraordinary. His influence on theatre today and tomorrow is legendary. His career spanned more than 6 decades, encompassing more than 40 Broadway musicals, 900 published songs, Hollywood and TV triumphs, and every award imaginable. My Favorite Things, Manhattan, My Funny Valentine, are a few of the songs Sonny & Perley highlight in this concert. Julie Andews put it best " All Rodgers' songs, with the wonders of lyrics woven into them, around them, through them, hit you somewhere in the solar plexus..." The Obama's gave the Queen a gift of an iPod and a rare songbook signed by Richard Rodgers...

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Fascinatin' Rhythms - The Music of George and Ira Gershwin

This Live performance of concert vocalist Perley Rousseau, pianist Sonny Daye along with a guest bassist highlights the music of great American composers George and Ira Gershwin. Audiences are enthralled by the stories behind the songs and drawn in by Perley's sincere emotive deliverance of the lyrics and Sonny's elegant reverence for the music. Selections including: Fascinating Rhythm, I’ve Got a Crush on You, They Can’t Take That Away from Me, Our Love is Here to Stay, Summertime, I Love You Porgy, etc.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Finding Your Voice

You sing in the shower and in the car when you're alone. Suddenly, when others are around, you can't find a way to open your mouth and let it out. Everybody loves to sing once they get past the fear they experience when they hear the sound of their own voice, and very few of us are truly tone deaf. We use simple vocalizing techniques and the principles of Hatha Yoga to explore the voice. Bernice Lewis has been a professional singer for more than ten years. She has studied vocal technique and improvisation with Bobby McFerrin, Rhiannon, Patty Andress, and Isaye Barnwell.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Finding the story in the Picture

Are you a writer, or a teacher or student of poetry, songs, fiction or non-fiction who wants to sharpen your ability to describe scenes and to tell stories? Kerry Grombacher, a songwriter and music educator based in New Orleans offers a workshop, Finding the Story in the Picture, that will explore using 2-dimensional artwork as an inspiration for creative writing. Kerry Grombacher is a noted songwriter who presents workshops on creativity and songwriting at music festivals, museums and schools. His work has been covered by western recording artists including Gary Prescott, Trails & Rails, Duke Davis, The Texas Trailhands, and Earl Gleason. Grombacher is a first reader for several published novelists, short story writers and authors of non-fiction, and the Texas Institute of Letters has recently chosen him as a judge for its 2008 literary awards. A member of Phi Beta Kappa, the national academic honor society, he did undergraduate and graduate work at the University of Texas in the interdisciplinary American Studies program where literature, art history, folklore and ethnomusicology were among his concentrations. Students in the workshop will use photos and paintings to hone their descriptive and story telling skills by asking (and answering): what do we see; what do we know; and what do we imagine? Grombacher stresses the use of strong descriptive language, literary and cultural allusions, and the power of story. Time will be spent in group discussions, writing exercises and focused writing sessions.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Flanders Ballad Collection

Drawing on her extensive research into the Helen Hartness Flanders Ballad Collection, this delightful program features songs from Debra's 2005 recording, "Dad's Dinner Pail and Other Songs From the Helen Hartness Flanders Collection". Many of thyese songs were collected in the Northeastern United States, but can also be traced to their origins in the British Isles. The Flanders Concert Program is an engaging presentation consisting of two 45-50 minute sets of stories and songs woven together from this captivating New England collection. Debra also includes informative and fascinating descriptions about the songs themselves as well as the source singers who first gave these songs to Mrs. Flanders

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Folk Revival!

Folk Revival! - Remember the good days of Peter Paul and Mary, early Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger? People sang along and felt a real sense that this generation was going to do something big. This program keeps that spirit alive. Well have a great time singing the Folk Revival classics from the 50s and 60s and few surprise pop classics from the 60s. Great for Active Adult dinner parties, clubhouse parties, etc.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Folk song Trail Ride

David sings and performs a variety of traditional and original American folk, blues and Appalachian tunes on the dobro, dulcimer, mandolin and guitar. With lots of humor and fancy picking, Lafleur discusses the history of each of his songs, some of which are rooted in Anglo-Saxon tunes stretching back to the 1700s. Each instrument in his arsenal is introduced, discussed then played to create a fun filled hot-pickin trail ride of early American folk music A typical concert appearance may include the following familiar old songs and ballads: Old Freedom Roving Gambler My Luv is Like a Red Red Rose The Waters Wide Oh Shenandoah Shady Grove She Moved thru the Fair Sittin on Top of the World In the Pines

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

For children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

For children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) I offer a special 45 60 minute program of sing alongs and an interactive story that involves one-on-one participation between parents/caregivers and their children. The focus of the program is to teach songs and involve the children while offering encouragement to parents/caregivers to experience the wonder of sharing songs and stories with them in a public setting. * You have a real gift for working with special needs children. I wrote in my report how seamlessly you fit into the program, as if you had been there for years. Kate Opella, Musical Mentors Program Great for the whole family, and special needs in-the-classroom events This program incorporates NJ Core Curriculum Standards: 1.5, 3.4, 6.1, 6.2, 6.4 and 6.6.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Family

Freedom Is Your Destiny

Freedom Is Your Destiny looks at historic and current day issues surrounding the quest for personal, political and spiritual freedom.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

From Appalachia to Jazz A fun filled musical journey!

Charlotte Formichella, a 5-year children's library veteran, leads the audience as Driftwood Fire performs original songs, famous American standards, and invites the audience to participate in the fun. A performance based program, this fun filled hour includes historical and cultural dialogues about the evolution of Americana and roots music. The program begins in the Scottish based traditions of Appalachian music and follows American history through 1920's jazz and explores the continued influence of roots music on contemporary folk, rock and country. Join Driftwood Fire in a warm and inviting performance on this musical journey.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

From Paris to Rio

Music of French origin pre 1960 to Brasilian Music post 1960* * This concert transports the listener to France pre 1960 and to Brazil post 1960 and highlights the music of Edith Piaf and other French artists prior to the making of the film “Black Orpheus”, and the Brasilian music of Antonio Carlos Jobim and other Brazilian composers that was subsequently brought to the United States in the 1960's after the making of the film. It includes musical gems such as “ La Vie en Rose”, “C’est si Bon”, “ The Girl from Ipanema”, “Manha De Carnival” (Black Orpheus) and many others.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Good Citizenship We all make a Difference

Good Citizenship We all make a Difference - What does it mean to be a good citizen? School students and other children give a variety or answers: Taking care of the Earth. Not littering. Making friends instead of fighting. Blacks, Whites, Asians and Latinos living together. Voting. This interactive, educational and fun program addresses the meaning of democracy, clean communities, environmental issues, civil rights, womens rights, workers rights, the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and other issues of good citizenship that we all value. It focuses on the commonality of people from all parts of the community and celebrates the vision of the founders of this great nation. Audiences sing along, laugh and let their voices be heard!! An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Great Old American Sing-Alongs

Great Old American Sing-Alongs brings us back to a time when the family gathered with neighbors by the fireplace on chilly nights and sang old familiar tunes like "Oh Susanna," "Home on the Range," "I've Been Working on the Railroad" and many, many more memorable songs of the American folk music tradition. Great for the whole family, Seniors or K-4 in-the-classroom events

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Adult Family

Guitar Master Class

Dubbed a "wizard of the fingerstyle guitar" and regarded internationally as a master guitar player, Walter's guitar classes cover a wealth of topics, with the focus dependent on the interests and skills of participants. Classes are interactive and include a mix of information, demonstration and active participation. Here's a list of topics covered - each can also be the focus of an entire workshop. Bring your guitar or a desire to begin learning! - creative guitar arranging and accompaniment - fingerpicking - open tunings - international music and translating music from other global instruments to the guitar - improvisation

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

HEALTH and BEAUTY

Targeted participants are intorduced to a variety of guest artists who will guide them through activities designed to increase self esteem, image and quality of life by improving their hygiene. This workshop includes HIV and AIDS awareness activities and lectures.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Hans York in Concert

This German-born, award-winning, internationally acclaimed performing songwriter got his musical roots from being born into an occupied Germany and fed a rich diet of American music. His potpourri of influences include Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan, Peter Gabriel, The Beatles, Pat Metheny, Miles Davis, Bill Evans, Debussy, Earth Wind & Fire, and Eric Clapton, to name a few. Hansʼ decision to spend his life as a professional musician was very nearly aborted by disconsolate parents, until his unclewho had played piano while a prisoner of warintervened and convinced Hansʼ parents to let Hans follow his heart. His musical training and education enabled Hansʼ early success as a musical artistplaying first classical guitarthen piano, percussion, bass, organ, and trumpet. He began playing with orchestras and ensembles in Germany, becoming a world-class bass player. He accompanied Robert Palmer on German TV, toured with the New York Broadway Ensemble, played throughout Europe with master harp player Ruediger Oppermann, and performed Concerto as soloist on fretless bass with the "Ars Quittilinga" Chamber Orchestra. (Concerto was written by contemporary East German composer, Thomas Koenig).

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Harmony through History

Join Bev and Greg on the journey of Harmony Through History as they sing you through the ages, from Ancient Greece to Medieval Europe, the American Colonial South and through to the popular music of the 20th Century and today. The harmonies keep flowing, until the concert concludes with the stage turned on the listeners. Greg keeps the groove while Bev divides the audience into parts and leads a sing-a-long, demonstrating that everyone can sing harmony. The audience comes the focal point as the resulting masterpiece is video recorded and archived on the Harmony Through History Web site.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

History Alive: Holocaust Education

History Alive is a 45 60 minute lecture that features the story of Bernice's familys escape from Nazi Germany in the early 1940s, along with demonstration of artifacts and original music. This presentation addresses the importance of discovering family histories and all that we can learn from them. It is designed for Junior and Senior High School, Colleges, and congregations. Der Dank des Vaterlandes is Euch Gewiss Roughly translated, the above statement says, "The thanks of the fatherland is your security." This ironic pledge was on the medal awarded Lewis paternal grandfather after serving in the German army during WWI. The presentation begins by showing students this artifact, flanked by photos of both her father and grandfather in uniform. From there, we talk about Hitlers rise to power in terms of day-to-day life in pre-war Germany. At age thirteen, Lewis father was sent to a Rothschild school outside of Paris, since it was believed that Hitler would not invade Francethe story continues from there. This story is not morbid or sensationalist. Historical facts are interwoven with story. There is a short power point presentation of pre-war photos and artifacts. It concludes with several of Lewis original compositions. Lewis song Ways to Survive won an award from the American Zionist Movement. Since 2007, History Alive has been presented at Lenox Memorial Jr High School in Lenox, Ma, Thurston Middle School in Westwood, Ma, St Michaels Episcopal Day School in Sacramento, Ca, Grand Canyon High School in Grand Canyon AZ, East Woods School in Oyster Bay, NY, Mt Anthony Union High School in Bennington, VT and as part of an extended artist residency at Mt Greylock Regional High School in Williamstown, MA. It has also been presented at Congregation Beth Israel in North Adams, MA and Beth El in Bennington, VT. Grants for this program have been awarded by the YDiyah Fund, The Harold Grinspoon Foundation, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and various private donors. This presentation is appropriate for Grade 6 and up. It has also been offered as an artists residency in high schools, including a family history creative writing or art component.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult Family

How I learned to be Proud of my Family

Terras mother is a Holistic Psychotherapist. Her sister heals animals. Her Grandmother is the family matriarch and a font of New Age philosophy and support. And, when Terra learned she was descended from a long line of wild, self-assured, empowered women it was only a matter of time before she headed directly...to therapy. Life is challenging enough without having the burden of unbridled support and acceptance especially when living in the shadow of such inspiring women in her own family tree. In this one-woman performance, Terra shares stories, songs and anecdotes about surviving the Taylor family legacy of wild women and stepping into her birthright of self acceptance and empowerment.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Teen Adult Family

I'll Go To Sea No More-Sea Chanteys and Ballads that Everyone Can Sing

In this workshop, Debra will give a general overview of sea chanteys touching upon the differences between types of chanteys. These include Long-Haul or Halyard, Short Drag, Capstan, Stamp n' Go, and Fo'c's'le Chanteys. Debra will briefly discuss how they were used as work songs. The participants will then learn the choruses of one short chantey from each type listed and use that information to take what we've learned and write our own modern day work song.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

In A Mellow Tone - The Music of Duke Ellington

They call him "The King of Swing", "The Aristocrat of Jazz". Edward Kennedy Ellington is a major figure in the history of American Music. Sonny & Perley with guest bassist and drummer delight in presenting some of Duke's most popular and beloved music (and a couple of hidden gems!). Interesting and little known facts about Duke's life are shared along with his music, including A-Train, Satin Doll, I'm Beginning To See The Light, Sophisticated Lady, and as Duke always said "It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing"!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Intro to Recording and Record Producing

How do you make a professional quality CD? In recent years, technology has transformed this into a process that can be accomplished in your home or in a school setting. Taught as a one hour workshop, Walter provides an introduction to the process - giving an overview of multi-track recording, musical arranging, and essential equipment for the home or school studio. When taught as a program with several meetings, Walter brings recording gear with which to teach and record, topics are explored more deeply, and a hands-on recording is made involving the entire group.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Irish Music Presentation

Let Matthew Gurnsey whisk you away to Paddy's green shamrock shores with this delightful set of music and humor from all over Ireland. This presentation embodies Irish culture with it's humor, rousing history, and heart-wrenching ballads. With such selections as Haul away Joe, Danny Boy, The Rocky Road to Dublin, The Swallowtail Jig, and The Irish Washerwoman, it's hard to keep from dancing in the isles! Go GREEN with Matthew's Irish Music Presentation!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

I’ll take Romance - Songs of love, romance and heartache

The most popular subject of all time! Love, in all it's sometimes frustrating, mystifying, but always enchanting variations, as seen through the eyes of world renowned composers including Richard Rogers, Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Edith Piaf, and Antonio Carlos Jobim. Charming, witty and humorous, this performance features songs such as "As Time Goes By", "Isn't It Romantic", "La Vie En Rose", "Desafinado", and a delightful duet between Sonny & Perley! Chronogram Magazine says Sonny and Perley are "Harbingers of aesthetic jazz and romanticism"

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

JUSTUS SISTAS' (group performance)

This unique performance demonstrates the rich heritage and experiences of African American Women and celebrtates their contribution to society. Audiences gain a richer understanding of the power of literature and the women who move us.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Ken Waldman - Solo fiddling for Children

Ken Waldman combines old-time Appalachian fiddling, original poetry and poetry written by other children, and also includes Alaska-set storytelling. There's also an interactive element, more singing, and more slapstick comedy. Ken Waldman has a wealth of material to draw from, and can vary his presentation to the needs of the particular audience. Sometimes there's a preponderance of teenagers; sometimes, lots of toddlers.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Ken Waldman - Solo fiddling performance

Ken Waldman combines old-time Appalachian-style fiddling, original poetry, and Alaska-set storytelling for a show that takes an audience to Alaska and back.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Lets Get Out the Vote!

Democracy goes way beyond the right to vote. But voting is an essential part of the process. Clean community programs, environmental legislation, civil rights, womens rights, workers rights and so many other issues we all value are affected by who our elected officials are. This fun, empowering and educational concert brings people from all parts of the community together to celebrate the vision of the founders of this great nation. Sing along, laugh and let your voice be heard!! An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Litter and the Three Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle)

Litter and the Three Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) A Clean Communities Program Choices we make every day have a huge impact on whether we live in a clean or dirty world. According to your needs, this program can focus specifically on Litter and the Three Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) or more broadly address the environment, ecology and/or global warming. Children and Families love this fun, interactive and educational concert that addresses some of the simple steps we can take to reduce waste, save energy, and become better stewards of the forests, air, water and open spaces we all share. An excellent program for Festivals, Libraries, Arts Centers, Summer Concert Series, Summer Playgrounds programs, Camps and Schools. Great for families and young alike. This program incorporates NJ Core Curriculum Standards: 1.5, 3.4, 5.1, 6.2, 6.4 and 6.6.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Love In Any Language - Amore, Amour, Amor..

Variety is the spice of life! A delightful international performance of songs in some of the worlds most beautiful romance languages. French, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish. Features songs including La Vie En Rose, Besame Mucho, Estate (Italian love song meaning "Summer" from Sonny & Perley's CD Let It Happen) and Corcovado, all with English translations. Sonny & Perley share their love of culture and language in this beautifully expressed concert.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Marc Black presents… Life, One Song at a Time

Marc Black is an acoustic, finger style guitar player from the Hudson Valley in New York. He has been living his life writing songs about what he sees, hears and experiences altogether. From joyous and tender family events, to social and political upheavals, from tragedies that he's seen first hand to just plain fun. Marc has been playing the same Guild D40 guitar since he bought it new in 1968! It's well worn and full of tunes, anecdotes and tall tales. Marc and his Guild can channel Mississippi John Hurt as well as Tim Hardin. This program is an American story. A dream that just won't quit. True to itself, a story of family, community, conflict, and peace. The natural appeal of his songs has resulted in airplay in the United States and abroad. But more important, he has a way of touching audiences and making them feel good about themselves. Happy Traum describes Marc’s music as, “Foot Tapping grooves, excellent playing, top-notch guitar and vocals…Marc’s songs are timeless.” Marc Black has recorded more than a dozen CD's, first for RCA, Jubilee, ESP and then, as an independent. Among his independent releases, he's had a ‘pick hit’ in Billboard Magazine, and another was recognized as a ‘minor masterpiece’ by famed music producer, John Hammond Sr. He also won the American Library Association Award for Best Children’s Album when he produced 'American Children'. He wrote the theme music for the New York Mets from 1987 till 1990 and won many awards including a “Mobius” for producing original music for commercials. This program features many of Marc's songs but he also intermingles songs by some great American icons, including several with whom he has recorded and performed like John Sebastian, Tim Hardin, Peter Schikele (PDQ Bach), and Taj Mahal. Marc's show is a colorful one and as Paul Winter put it, “His songs are great and his singing is superb.”

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Mardi Gras Gumbo

The music of Louisiana is as tasty a cultural mixture as its food. From his six years in New Orleans, Steve leads a musical tour through Cajun, Zydeco, Country New Orleans Jazz and Blues, and more. He tells the stories behind artists like Gov. Jimmie Davis, Hank Williams, Fats Domino and the Mardi Gras Indians and songs like "Jambalaya," "You Are My Sunshine," "Jolie Blonde" and "Iko Iko."

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult

Master Class Fiddle Workshop

Stephanie Bettman & Luke Halpin offer Master Class Fiddle Workshops. This covers Fiddle basics, and improvisation on the fiddle. In addition she compares and contrasts the difference between "fiddle" and "violin". For violinists and fiddlers.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Master Class Mandolin Workshop

Luke Halpin offers Master Class Mandolin workshops for groups. His beginner workshop is basic techniques, and tricks for adding mandolin to almost anything. For mandolin players and mandolin want-to-be players.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Monster Hunt!

In the Monster Hunt children between the ages of 7 and 14 years old build library research skills and use their own wits to track down coded clues that will help them find and capture a lurking monster! The clues provide teams of eager participants with hints about where to find the Monster’s Secret Lair, and what book they need to find in order to obtain another clue. Participants are guided through the process of using the library catalog and the Dewey Decimal System to locate the books that have the hidden clues. Every group has its own set of clues to find – there is never any competing over clues, and every child succeeds! In the end, the teams assemble for the search, using the decoded instructions to find and capture the beast. The children are then commissioned as deputy detectives in the Monster Detective Agency and presented with an Associate Monster Detective Badge and a diploma certifying that they have demonstrated bravery in the face of fear. The full program lasts slightly over an hour, but can be modified to fit into forty minute class periods as well.

Program Type: Other

Ages: Children Teen

Music That Made America

American folk music has a rich heritage of songs for kids of all ages, from centuries-old ballads like "Froggie Went a-Courting" to songs of the pioneers and summer camp favorites. Steve entertains and educates at the same time. His shows are multicultural, showing how Irish, Mexican, Cajun, African-American and Native American songs have added their colors to the tapestry of American music. They're multi-instrumental, introducing kids to unusual instruments like the tin whistle, the accordion and the rubboard. And they're interactive. He'll get kids singing along, clapping, tying their ears in knots and throwing them over their shoulders. History was never so much fun.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children

Music as a Business

Do you want to be a professional musician? What do you need to become a professional musician? What does it take? How do you book a tour? Etc.... Panel type discussion with Stephanie Bettman & Luke Halpin. Questions welcome

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Musicians Health

Musicians Health: Common injuries and prevention methods for musicians. Dealing with tendinitis/performance injury has led me to present various workshops to students and educators on preventing musician injuries.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult Family

My home is the Delta....

The Delta area of Mississippi is legend as the birthplace of the blues in the US. The material selected from the repertoire of Son House, Robert Johnson, Sonny Boy Williamson, and Blind Joe Reynolds reflect thirty years of structural and technical development of the Delta Blues (from Solo Acoustic to Electric Ensemble).

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Never Fear Shakespeare!

Whether you're familiar with the Bard or a newby, this interactive introduction to some of Shakespeare's greatest hits is destined to make you a fan! With plenty of background information about Shakespeare's England, the rowdy cast of characters and games like "Shakespeare MadLibs" and "What's My Line", this hour-long workshop can turn even the most timid reader into an aficionado. Fun facts, random trivia and translation tricks to decoding "Billy Bob's" work add to the experience and take the Fear out of Shakespeare once and for all!

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Oldtimey Songs for Kids - Family fun for All!

Oldtimey Songs for Kids is an interactive concert of traditional songs, stories, and oldtimey tunes (mostly) from the southern Appalachian Mountains. These are songs about the natural world, immigrant tales, animals, and nonsense play-songs. During the course of the concert Dana and Susan always find an opportunity to talk about their many instruments (banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, drum) and answer questions the kids (and parents!) might have.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

One Man- One Guitar

The intensely personal nature of the Blues has always been represented by a man sharing his feelings with his guitar. With this in mind, the Texas blues of "I've had my fun", and "Mighty Crazy" (Lighting Hopkins) juxtapose the sad and happy feelings of the rural world, while John Lee Hooker's Detroit style "Hobo Blues" show the urban blues singer reminiscence's of his rural roots. The Rev. Gary Davis "Candy Man" was selected to represent the up-tempo Piedmont influences in the Blues.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

POETIC KWANZAA (solo performance)

A holiday presentation developed for educational entertainment. Poetic Kwanzaa celebrates African American heritage and demonstrates a traditional activity. Ideal community involvement presentation.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Passing Along the Folk Music Tradition

Passing Along the Folk Music Tradition - For generations children grew up singing with the whole family, at large gatherings, at school or in their churches. Before the advent of radio, TV and the internet this was the primary form of entertainment. Today, however, many people are worried that this centuries-old tradition is being deleted from the hard drive of the modern human experience. And along with that society is losing one of the most powerful tools for building strong families and strong communities. This program is simple. Lets make sure our kids know some of the treasures of American Folk Music. Well sing old favorites like This Land is Your Land, If I had a Hammer, Ive been Working on the Railroad, "She'll be coming Around the Mountain" and maybe some newer songs. If the children dont already know a song well take the time to teach them. Parents are encouraged to sit with their children and help them learn the songs. An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, in the Classroom or K-4 Assemblies. This program incorporates NJ Core Curriculum Standards: 1.5, 3.4, 6.1, 6.2, 6.4 and 6.6.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Family

Passport to Adventure

An exploration of stories and puppetry from around the world will be a perfect addition to your summer 2011 program of "One World - Many Stories". Promoting the joys of and importance of reading is one of the goals of the programming of Pockets Full of Fun. With that in mind Lisa writes a new show each year which correlates with the theme for the Summer Reading Program. The 2011 show is called Passport to Adventure. Lisa and her friends, Lily, Shiloh, Jemimah and Susanita will help the children take a little trip around the world to discover some stories and puppets from different countries. The children will also learn how to say hello in a few different languages and Susanita will teach the children a song in Spanish. A surprise visitor will make an appearance during a Japanese drawing story! Don't miss the opportunity to let the children of your community experience this fun adventure! Includes: Prizes for all children!

Program Type: Puppeteers

Ages: Children

Peaceful Inspirations - Music of Gentle Rhythms

Jazz for the quiet times. Swinging, swaying, peaceful jazz that creates a soulful relaxing mood and a wonderful listening experience for anyone. Sonny & Perley along with their musician friends play soothing melodies that just melt the tension away. Instrumentation including piano, world percussion, and woodwinds, coordinates a balance that uplifts the spirit, enfolds and celebrates the life force, laying like a feather on ones consciousness. Soothing bossa novas, timeless ballads, and at times conveying without words, the pure sound of color and light embodied in the human voice, bring a completely satisfying and uplifting experience to all the senses.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Percussion petting zoo

Storytelling is a method of communication that has spanned the ages. Whether the stories serve as oral histories, religious doctrines, or simple bedtime entertainment, they have become an important staple of mankind. Many of these stories are percussive; either in the rhythmic structure of the iambs, or in the onomatopoeia of the words. This project aims to fuse elements of contemporary-classical percussion with elements of vocal storytelling. 50 minute program, including 30 minutes of percussive stories, a Q&A session, and a percussion petting zoo for children. The petting zoo allows children to experience the instruments they hear. This program is ideal for smaller venues such as libraries and other venues with a smaller audience size

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

Percussive stories

The connection between vocal storytelling and percussion can be seen throughout history in countless cultures, from African griots to Japanese yukara epics of the Ainu people to Harikatha by bhagavatars from India to the pansori tradition of Korea. While the art of storytelling faces challenges due to technological advances, the onset of globalization brings the opportunity to tell stories of another people to new audiences. One can perform a story from Japan to a class of first-graders in the United States and expose these students to new and exciting cultures. 50 minute program, including 35-40 minutes of percussive stories and 10 minutes for a Q&A session. This program is ideal for school assemblies and other venues with a large audience size.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

Plays well with others

Plays Well with Others is an award-winning comedy show based upon the book of the same name. Author Les McGehee (Plays Well with Others, Dalton Publishing) hosts hilarious games and stories from his life as a working Improvisational Comedian. It is a book and a show that uplifts and entertains. It is full of laughter and energy, it is interactive and playful, and it is clean enough for mixed audiences of all types. This show is a favorite for groups of all types, especially businesses, keynotes, universities, teachers, hospitals, and all types of fun workshops and teambuilding. The book is used as a text in several prestigious universities, business schools, and school districts. Les has entertained more than a million happier people and has toured 15 countries including two tours for the troops overseas, receiving numerous awards and commendations. Larger versions of the show are available with the rest of the original cast, for larger events.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Protecting Our Precious Planet- You CAN make a difference!

As a kid, it’s easy to think that because you’re small, you can’t make much of a difference. This interactive and exciting program is designed to show kids that they can be a power for change, one small step at a time! We will sing songs celebrating our precious planet Earth. We will sing and reflect about some things that may be affecting the safety and beauty of our home, and what we can do to help. A projector is used to show photos of some of these effects. Some examples of topics covered are recycling, litter clean-up and prevention, preserving water, and respecting nature. As many of us know, children have very creative ideas, so this program also encourages kids to think outside the box about what they can do to take part in fostering a healthy environment.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children

Puppet Workshop

Children learn to make their own puppets in Puppetry Around the World. Puppet making has never been easier! Or they can develop their writing skills in Chickens and Cows and Goats - Oh My! Lisa is an approved Teaching and Performing Artist for the Iowa Arts Council. Lisa can come to your school as an Artist In Residency, for three days, four days or a whole week. Grant Information Puppetry Around the World - Elementary school workshops, where stories and songs are from different countries, just like the puppets are. Nursery Rhymes and Fairy Tales - Preschool and day care workshops, with puppet making and performance simplified for the little ones. Finger, glove, foam ball and sock puppets can be made, along with puppets made from stuffed toys. Chickens and Goats and Cows, Oh My! - Based on Lisa's two children's books, and with the help of Lily the puppet, the workshop encourages children to try writing stories themselves. Follow-up activities are given to teachers for use in their classrooms. Includes: Prizes for all children!

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children

Remembering Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong defined what it was to play Jazz. His amazing technical abilities, the joy and spontaneity, and inventive musical mind still dominate jazz to this day. His music influenced not only instrumentalists, but vocalists such as Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald. Sonny & Perley along with a band of swinging musicians bring to life some of his iconic recordings including Basin Street Blues, Dream A Little Dream and St. Louis Blues as well as favorites from his popular recordings with Ella and many others

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Rhythm!

Everyone has rhythm. Even the heart beats to a steady groove. This workshop is an opportunity to directly access and express the innate rhythm within you. We look at basic rhythm concepts, explore musical collaboration and teamwork, and discover some cultural rhythms, while making music on simple instruments and found objects. Anything in the immediate environment or brought to the workshop becomes a medium for musical self-expression and finding your groove.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

STORY TELLING (solo performance)

Traditional stories come through the imaginative style of Oba William King. Presentations can be designed to fit the needs of your audience.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Scottish Music Presentation

About this Scottish music presentation Matthew says "Through my music you can feel the green shamrocks underfoot, catch the aroma of a distant salt sea, and taste the highland rain upon your lips!" Thousands have been enraptured by Matthew's presentation of Scotland through music, humor, and story. With such selections as The Queen of Argyle, Loch Lomond, Wild Mountain Thyme, Twa Recrutin' Sergeants, and Danny Boy, this program is sure to make audiences laugh, cry, and want to dance in the isles!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Self-esteem and Following Your Dreams

Bonnie Lee believes that every child is special and that each child has unique dreams deep inside. She encourages the kids to get in touch with those dreams, and to believe in themselves and their possibilities, even if someone tells them differently. She uses personal experience to talk about overcoming obstacles, especially when that obstacle is oneself. She talks about being very shy as a child, but wanting to perform on stage so badly, that she did it until she wasn’t shy anymore. The Program includes original sing-along songs like “I’m Gonna Like Me,” and the kids even get the chance to write and sing a few verses of their own with Bonnie Lee.

Program Type: Other

Ages: Children

Seniors Outreach

Seniors Outreach - Many Senior Centers, Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes with limited budgets can still afford top notch musical entertainment. Thats because Spook has drastically reduced his fees for such venues as a way of giving back to a generation that has given so much to our nation and world. Beside, whats more soul satisfying than spending an hour sharing Americas favorite songs like "Good Night, Irene" "Shell be Coming Around the Mountain," and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" (not to mention a Beetles song or two) with a room full of people who just love to sing?

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Shakespeare Man

Grades 3-6 During a highly inter-active mixture of performance and presentation, students experience an acting demonstration (Becoming Shakespeare!) and learn grade-appropriate information about Shakespeare, while sharing secrets about creating a character, inventing a line of dialogue, and playing their own historical character in costume and a spotlight. Great, informative fun!

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

Shakespeare Man - Individual Presentations

In-depth analysis of any of Shakespeares plays and sonnets, as well as specially written Titles including Shakespeare and Modern Culture; Shakespeare in America; Leadership as personified in Shakespeares plays; and Spiritual Values in Shakespeare.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Shakespeare Man - Residencies

Residencies with Robert Clover-Brown can include a selected mix of performances, presentations and coaching, as needed, OR a new Residency with a strong Arts Integration component: Connecting with Shakespeare through Old Time Radio.

Program Type: Other

Ages: Teen Adult

Shakespeare Man Grades 6-12

An academically graduated, curriculum-relevant variety of Shakespeare Man Titles are available, each containing lively, informative insights into the man behind the words, with LOTS of attention-grabbing participation, designed to supplement students class and theatre work, while entertaining them. Particular Shakespeare topics, plays or sonnets requested by teachers, or home school parents, can be explored and discussed. TITLES (performed in costume, as Shakespeare) include: My exciting life in a turbulent Elizabethan world; My intriguing women; My dramatic, dirty London; My faithful colleagues and jealous rivals; My demanding, supportive monarchs; My innovative theatres and theatre companies.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Teen

She Wrote the Song

This program highlights music written or co-written by women composers who, in the early decades of popular song and American life, had to struggle for recognition and acceptance in their field.. Some of the women composers being celebrated include Dorothy Fields, one of the composers of popular American song who co-wrote classics such as I Can't Give You Anything But Love and I'm In The Mood For Love , Ann Ronell who gave us Willow Weep For Me, and Consuelo Velasquez who penned the famous Latin classic Besame Mucho. Also celebrated are composers including Blossom Dearie, Peggy Lee, and Carolyn Leigh Young at Heart.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Silly Songs and Funny Folk

Guaranteed to put a smile on the faces of those participating. Debra takes you on a Safari Up My Sisters Nose, a journey to The Bottomless Lake, and sings about the composers Beethovan and Johann Strauss. Simple refrains and choruses of both traditional and contemporary songs are taught so that singing is encouraged. The audience learns several entire songs such as "Wild About Horns on Automobiles" and "The Stars at Night" so that they can take them home teach them to others. The primary goal of this program is to encourage singing, but most of all, we want to have as much fun as possible.This program is primarily meant for children, but can be adapted for adult audiences.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Singer/Songwriter Workshop

Have you ever wanted to write a song, but weren't sure how to go about it? Learn all about the process of writing a song - from inspiration (or assignment) to fully arranged performance. This is a workshop geared toward musicians. It deals with the elements of arrangement, song structure, and performance. This workshop can be broken down into different workshops: "Song Arranging", "Singing", "Performing a Song", "Guitar for Singer/Songwriters"

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Singing Workshop

Everyone can sing - right? Discover the ins and outs of being a singer. Learn vocal warm ups, techniques for different genres, & the psychology of singing.....

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Singing the Story-Preparing a Ballad for Public Consumption

Singer Debra Cowan will guide participants through the process of learning, memorising and performing ballads or "story-songs". Strategies in vocal techniques, memorisation and performance will be demonstrated and practiced in a series of exercises. This could be a stand alone workshop or a continuation of "The Naked Voice-Performing Songs Un-Accompanied"

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Songs of the American Landscape

Dana and Susans most requested program, Songs of the American Landscape is an entertaining travelogue of songs and stories developed over many years of travel and touring across the United States. Presented with humor and humanity, the songs are about historic towns, farmers and migrant workers, riverboats, deserts and plains, and forgotten places the America that is our collective identity. Danas original songs are interspersed with traditional Appalachian stringband music where Dana and Susan talk about the connection between the Scots/Irish/English music and how it evolved into what we know now as American folk music. This unique blend of contemporary songwriting and traditional Appalachian music brings to Dana and Susans performances a deep understanding of Americas musical heritage. While the songs can be evocative and poignant, the fiddle tunes make for great levity and foot-tapping!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Family

Songwriter's Journey

Laurie and Dana will take you on a songwriter's journey through the twentieth century, from Jimmy Rodgers and Woody Guthrie up to the songs of present day. They will share the stories behind the songwriting process, and they will perform some of their award-winning compositions. Dana Keller, a world-class dobro player, will explain the history of the dobro and its significance on modern music. Dana will also share his expertise of Chet Atkins, and the impact that Mr. Atkins has had on contemporary guitar. “Great dobro, guitar and original lyrics, from deep, to deeply funny to sublime.” —Rosalind Kutter, Redwood City Downtown Library, Redwood City, CA, Aug. 2010

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult

Songwriting

Kerry Grombacher is a noted songwriter who presents workshops on creativity and songwriting at music festivals, museums and schools. His work has been covered by western recording artists including Gary Prescott, Trails & Rails, Duke Davis, The Texas Trailhands, and Earl Gleason. Grombacher is a first reader for several published novelists, short story writers and authors of non-fiction, and the Texas Institute of Letters has recently chosen him as a judge for its 2008 literary awards. Kerry Grombacher is the best kind of songwriter, with lyrics that take us on journeys to places weve never visited before, and melodies so pure and true that they seem to rise up from the plains... Nalini Jones Newport Folk Festival

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Songwriting Workshop

Join Lynn and Charlotte for a hands on creative journey through the art of songwriting. These two internationally award wining songwriters have received accolades from VH-1, the International Song Contest, Falcon Ridge, Merlefest, and Telluride, among others. Bring your voice and/or an instrument to explore songwriting inspirations from literature, poetry, current events and our own personal experiences. This workshop is responsive to its participants, questions are welcome and interaction is encouraged.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Songwriting and Composition

An exploration of the creative processes of songwriting and instrumental composition - from the innumerable ways original music can be inspired to the nuts and bolts of song structure. Learn innovative approaches to setting loose the writer within you and for creating compelling instrumental accompaniments. Where the length of the session permits, participants write complete songs during the workshop.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Songwriting and Performing Residency

Appropriate for the general public, college, and secondary school level, and designed according to time allotted and interest, participants are coached in the basics of writing original material and presenting in a way that communicates successfully. This includes professional information and advice on vocalizing as well as accompaniment. Extended residencies include producing a show in a local or on site venue. Bernice has been teaching credited courses on Songwriting and Performing at Williams college in Williamstown, Ma, and The Colorado College in Colorado Springs, CO for more than a decade. Other places she has taught include Omega Institute, Esalen, Kripalu Center, Warren Wilson College, Universe of Song, Star Island Writers Retreat, and Lambs Retreat. Previous to becoming a full time performer, Bernice made her living teaching English and Creative Writing at public and private high schools. "Thanks to wonderful instruction, honest criticism, and a great format, I have so many of the necessary tools to become a better writer and to continue to learn and explore my own writing." - Harris Paseltiner, Williams College 2009 "This class has reaffirmed my long-standing conviction that creativity only happens in open and safe environments." - Thomas Calvo, Williams College 2011

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

Songwriting for Kids

In the course of one hour with Susan at the chalkboard and Dana on the guitar, Dana and Susan prompt the kids to come up with ideas and lyrics for a song. They show them how to conjure and coax a melody out of a simple idea, and then how to put melody and lyric together. By the end of the session the children are all singing a brand new creation. Its always a surprise to see what kind of magic happens when the ideas begin to flow. There is also an option for the songs to be recorded onto a CD to share with teachers and parents.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Family

Soup from a Stone

Similar to The Chalk Circle, this whimsical tale centers on the values of equality, friendship and teamwork. Starting her journey with nothing in her soup pot but a stone, a young girl sets out on an adventure through neighboring villages in search of enough ingredients to make soup. What she finds along the way are several delightful characters each with his or her own unique ingredient to add to the concoction. Every ingredient as unlikely as the next, yet each bringing just the right touch to this special soup, and what begins as a story of ingenuity, results in a story of friendship, teamwork and not a little bit of creativity. This piece clearly illustrates that magic and community can begin from something as small and ordinary as a stone. Highly interactive this 30 minute production is ideal for younger audiences and when paired with another fairy tale creates the perfect afternoon of family friendly entertainment.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

Spook Handy in Concert

Spook Handy in Concert is the most popular show I do. Instead of being theme oriented, this is just simply me, my trio or full band showcasing mostly original songs from my 4 CDs. Sprinkled with occasional 60s and 70s folk songs or an obscure original, this concert engages audiences of all backgrounds and ages. An excellent program for Festivals, Libraries, Arts Centers, Concert Halls, Outdoor Concerts and any other place where good music is heard.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Stories Are Magic

Lisa and her friends tell stories of Mystery and Adventure with Giggles, Information and Creativity added to the mix. Enjoy the story-telling experience through songs and magic. Books can be filled with mystery, adventure, and laughs - but they can also be sources of information and inspiration for creativity. Lisa and her puppets bring story-time to life by sharing their favorite stories with magic, audience participation and drawing. The show can be adapted to fit a bedtime or pajama party theme, a Dr Seuss theme, or just to promote a love of reading. As the stories are told there will be opportunities for the children to participate through music, chants, magic and a bit of dress-up! The stories featured in this show will change each year as well as seasonally, making it appropriate as an inclusion in your programming every year! Includes: Prizes for all children!

Program Type: Puppeteers

Ages: Children

Storytelling and Music A Norwegian American Tale

Ed Pettersen weaves the story of tracing his familys lost Norwegian roots with songs inspired by his travels and reading of Norwegian literature. A journey into the cultural identity of modern day Norway with twists and turns into the past, Pettersens story connects on many levels. Pettersen shows how a little willingness to research can uncover fascinating truths (his Sami heritage), how social and cultural influences influence peoples movements, and how one can understand ones own family better by learning about ones roots. Pettersens songs have been covered by artists such as Grammy nominated blues singer Bettye Lavette and renowned soul singer Candi Staton and this show is a rare opportunity to present an artist of this caliber in an educational setting. This presentation can be adjusted for an audience of any age due to the universal themes (where did we come from, how did we get here) and Eds ability to connect with children of all ages.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Storytelling with Brian Rohr

As a Storyteller/bard/wanderer, I share the old stories - the Myths, Folk Tales, Fairy Tales - from many different cultures around the world. A typical show consists of myself gathering people together either in a circle or a standard performer/audience style. I then begin teaching why it is important that we tell the old stories and why the oral tradition is so vital. Next, using the drum to create a rhythmic trance state, I engage in the heart of the performance, which is the storytelling itself, telling 1-3 stories (anywhere between 15-45 minutes for each story, though some can be 75-90 minutes long) drawing from many different cultures. After a story is told, we do what is called Feeding the Story where we, as a community, speak about the story: what did we like or not like about it? What delighted, confused or disgusted us? Where may we have found ourselves in the story, a part of the story that reminds us of our own lives? Or where might we have gotten stuck in the story? A scene where I may have kept on going with the story, but a listener focused and stayed on that scene for a while. All of these things hold wonderful information and are an important part of any storytelling as they make it much more personal and relevant then just hearing a good tale. And they help ground the story into the audience and keep the stories alive and living on in the hearts and soul of the listener and the community. The point is that these stories are alive, vital and important sources of wisdom, teaching us what it means to be human beings on this planet and how to live in balance. They are education in the oldest sense of the word, meaning 'to draw out.'

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Stroke of Genius

Dan Mountain, one of Los Angeles premier advertising creative directors, suffered a massive stroke that left him in a coma for 21 days. His doctors gave him a zero chance of meaningful survival and finally pulled life support. Thats when Dan woke up. Struggling to put his life back together, he found words again. First, the rhythm, then the meaning. He worked through his aphasia and wrote poems that his friend, Marc Black, put to music and recorded with help from musical luminaries Art Garfunkel, John Sebastian, Steve Gadd, and the Dixi Hummingbirds. They created a richly human CD, Stroke of Genius. Inspired by Dans courage and by the CD, filmmaker, Bahman Soltani, produced a tender and surprising love story. His film, also entitled Stroke of Genius, expresses both the fragility of our lives and the powerful resilience of the human spirit. And now Mr. Black has brought it all together in a presentation that features live performance of his original songs, the documentary film, and finally, a time for questions and sharing of experience. Marc is a seasoned performer that makes his audience feel at home. And leaves them inspired.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Tales from the Road

Spook has been to every American state except North Dakota, Hawaii, Michigan and Long Island (huh?). And hes met all kinds of people with all kinds of backgrounds some comical, some downright sad. In this humorous, heartwarming and inspiring concert Spook will share stories and songs about the places hes been, people hes met and the jobs and other predicaments hes found himself in. An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

That's the Gospel

When we welcome children, we are welcoming Jesus Himself! Introduce children to the truths of the Bible in fun and engaging ways that will stick with them long after the program is over. Using puppets, simple magic and stories, the children actively participate in learning. In T.O.Y.S. - Truths of Your Savior, children learn about Jesus with the help of their favorite toys. The Crayon Box Gospel uses colors found in a crayon box to tell the gospel in a very simple way. The program is based on the Wordless Book and is filled with magic and audience participation. Pockets Full of Fun also offers programs for Christmas and Easter. Lisa has an extensive background in puppet ministry, directing and performing in her local church, in One Way Street regional and international festivals, during Council Time for Awana; and has taught in Christian preschools, a mission school in Papua New Guinea, and undertaken training through the Child Evangelism Fellowship. Lisa and her puppets would love to join you in celebrating His Word.

Program Type: Puppeteers

Ages: Children

The Amazing Dextre Tripp

Dextre Tripp has been captivating audiences all over the world for more than 20 years, bringing to the stage a blend of acrobatics, balancing tricks, unusual juggling & prop comedy and fun-for-the-whole-family comedic entertainment! Taking a cue from old-time vaudeville-style live stage entertainment, Dextre believes that the "unpredictabilities" of live stage entertainment are an important part of the magic, and contribute to the enjoyment of both audience and performer. Dextre has a wealth of material to choose from, and 3 different shows he performs. He can tailor his performance time from a dynamic 5 minute piece, to a full 2 1/2 hour theatrical show. His talents and stunts, as well as the show's format are adaptable for ANY venue. It's true that Dextre has some HUGE skills that require space and rigging options, but these aren't necessary to the Dextre Tripp Thrill Show experience, and he can use alternate performance pieces and finales to meet the needs of your venue. Dextre's show is designed to bring people in, make them forget their troubles, and inspire them to pursue their own goals and reach their full potential. It's and experience everyone should have. The audience is truly involved in Dextre's show as many pieces designed to be interactive. Dextre performs with his audience, not at his audience.

Program Type: Juggling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The American Irish Seanachi

Keeps the oral tradition alive, with programs to delight audiences from the wee to the ancient. Denis Michael John Gorman McCarthy Gessing, born in Colorado to third generation Irish parents, gives life to Irish Folk Tales, his own stories and those of Frank Delaney. The American/ Irish Seanachi reminds you that while the ancestors had to leave Eire, Eire never leaves you so long as theres the Seanachi.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The Art of Songwriting

The connection between literature (and libraries) and songwriting is closer than is often acknowledged. While some are naturally more drawn to the written word and others more readily drawn to music, songwriters of all stamps are influenced by the great writers of the day. Whether seeking details on a given subject to lend authenticity to a song setting or devouring acclaimed authors to learn how to craft a great phrase, songwriters draw much of their inspiration from the written word. Literature helps teach the tools of great songwriting including: conveying a universal feeling or theme, the art of subtlety, an expansive vocabulary, and the poetry of language. Discussion includes examples of clever word usage in a song, (does the audience agree or disagree?), illustrations of how subtlety serves the song, and interactive fill in the word exercises on verses. Appropriate for age 8 and up.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen Adult

The Ballad As History

Long before twitter, before newscasts, before radio broadcasts, before "Extra, Extra! Read all about it!", and even before the printing press and written language... there were ballads. Matthew Gurnsey brings his audience back in time hundreds of years with his "Ballad as History" set. Back to a time when the news was delivered not to your cell-phone, but via troubadours and bards telling tales and singing songs of far distant lands and important points in history. Hear of great battles, mighty kings, brave knights, and of course true love in this enchanting step back into our history.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

The Chalk Circle

The traditional tale of two opposing mothers pulling a child out of a chalk circle has been given a youthful update and looks beyond the darker aspects of the original to focus on the inherent values of teamwork, cultural and racial tolerance, equality, compassion and friendship. Rather than two mothers in conflict, it is the tale of two cultures: those from the Hills and those from the Sea, both fiercely competitive and desirous of a coveted golden statue. Sworn enemies, they have each been taught since childhood that the other is bad even dangerous. Yet, when circumstances arise that force them to work together each villager must face his or her own prejudice and learn to find the similarities among the differences. This piece offers an opportunity for a large number of youth to get into the act as they create the two villages and work together to bring the story, and its lessons, to life.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

The Entirely True Tale of Goldilocks

Step aside Mother Goose, this aint your mamas Goldilocks! This wild romp through a forest inhabited by three unsuspecting bears follows Goldie, a diva-in-the-making, as she makes her way to her next gig. The characteristics of the original get a comic tweak when Goldie entreats the bears to leave the porridge and join her act! Fun for families of all ages and especially fun for youth this 30 minute production offers an interactive and contemporary look at a classic story and when coupled with another fairy tale creates the ideal afternoon of family friendly entertainment!

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

The Folk Process

Where traditional and contemporary songs collide! In this workshop Dana and Susan discuss the symbiotic relationship between old melodies and new lyrics and how they keep each other alive and relevant. They share examples and give participants an opportunity to create their own songs using melodies and lyrics of their choosing. (Participants are requested to come with either a traditional melody or a topical idea.)

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

The Golden Age of Broadway

Jans show will awaken your favorite musical memories and have you tapping your foot and singing along. The Golden Age of Broadway reveals the stories and histories behind the songs and shows.Let her take you back to the glorious days of The Golden Age of Broadway with songs by: Rodgers and Hammerstein (Oklahoma, South Pacific, The King and I, and more) Lerner and Loewe (My Fair Lady, Camelot and more) Cole Porter (Kiss Me Kate) Meredith Willson (The Music Man) Frank Loesser (Guys and Dolls) Bernstein and Sondheim (West Side Story) Adler and Ross (Pajama Game, Damn Yankees) Jerome Kern (Showboat) many, many more

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

The Golden Age of Popular Song

This timeless music transcends generations and defines our musical heritage. Featuring vocalist Perley Rousseau, accompanied with piano by Sonny Daye, this concert highlights the music of great American composers such as Gershwin, Berlin, Porter, Ellington, Rodgers and significant others. Includes entertaining stories about the music and composers. Voted Best Jazz Standards Duo by Metroland Magazine “ ...Sonny & Perley know their way around what is usually called “the Great American Songbook”... when they perform the works of Porter, Ellington or Berlin, they create something lovely to listen to.”

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

The Great American Songbook - Post Golden Age

Much of the music written between 1959 and 1970 is etched into our hearts and minds in a nostalgic way. Baby boomers and their parents remember the theme songs from many Hollywood films, such as The Shadow Of Your Smile, A Man and A Woman, Alfie, The Summer Of 42 (The Summer Knows), Moon River.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

The Naked Voice-Performing Songs Un-Accompanied

Massachusetts-based singer Debra Cowan has left her mark on the folk music world by performing many traditional and contemporary songs without accompaniment. In her first Dusty Strings workshop, Debra will discuss general vocal techniques and how to use them in the art of unaccompanied singing. She will also discuss choosing material and each participant will learn two short songs that can be taken home and practiced to re-inforce what they lkearned in the workshop.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

The OlStoryteller Tall tales and Westerns

The OlStoryteller spins Tall Tales like Pecos Bill and John Henry and hes not beyond taking liberties with either the truth or the fiction especially when spinning his own yarns. Programs include: Pony Express Rider Cowboys Pioneers Miners Irish in the West

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The Real Genetics Behind Superheroes and Super Villains

The strength of Superman, the speed of the Flash, the super-stretch of Mr. Fantastic! The powers that these heroes have may seem fantastic, but in reality they are not that outlandish. We'll discuss the super-powers of your favorite movie and comic book superheroes and the science behind these same fantastic skills. We‘ll also talk about real people with super abilities just like these.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The Song of America US history from 1492 to the Present Day as told through song

Songwriter and producer Ed Pettersen was presented with a unique challenge to engage childrens interest in the history of our country through song, by then Attorney General Janet Reno. To craft a compelling story of universal appeal Pettersen collaborated with Dr. Deane Root, Director of the Center for American Music at the University of Pittsburgh, and carefully selected popular songs that were part of the social fabric of each era and which described or alluded to a specific historical event, cultural or social movement. The result was an astonishing fifty song. 3 CD compilation with recordings from current and Grammy nominated artists of all genres released in 2007. Pettersen performs a selection of songs from the compilation on acoustic guitar and discusses the historical significance of each song. A classroom copy of the compilation is provided to the teacher or library for follow up study.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The Songs of Peter Paul and Mary

There's a great picture of the Beatles back stage at the Ed Sullivan show in 1964 staring in awe at Peter Paul and Mary. The Beatles knew they were in the company of incredible and important musicians. This trio did more to make American folk music accessible to the masses than anyone else. People all over the world sang along to "Puff the Magic Dragon," "Leaving on a Jet Plane" and "Blowin in the Wind." And audience members can't help but sing along with Spook as he leads them through this heart-opening, educational, and voice-raising program! (Occasionally, Spook is joined by Paul Prestopino who toured with PPM for 15 years as a back up musician.) An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The Very Modern Tale of Rumplestiltskin

Wembley and Crenshaw, two charlatans, walk onto the stage, carrying a large trunk. And so begins this modernized re-telling of Rumplestiltskin; the cantankerous elf who spun straw into gold. In a joyful way this production highlights the values of loyalty, integrity, ingenuity and honesty as Rumplestiltskins antics empower the Princess to realize that she is strong enough to define her own outcome a decision that has everyone else in the kingdom cheering for joy. Overseen by two comic characters (one played by an unsuspecting audience member!) direct from Vaudeville, this treatment offers a new look at an old classic with more than one surprise. Highly interactive, this piece is best performed for a younger audience willing to jump into the action and learn the magic of spinning tales into golden memories.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

The Works of Pete Seeger

Pete Seeger turned 92 on May 3, 2011. This program looks at the legacy, struggles, songs and stories of one of Americas most beloved folk singers - the man who gave us If I Had a Hammer, Turn, Turn, Turn, and Waist Deep in the Big Muddy. Click here for complete description of this program. An excellent program for Festivals, Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

These Are A Few Of Our Favorite Things

Songs in Broadway Musicals from the Golden Age of Popular Song Sonny & Perley highlight some of their favorite songs from Broadway Musicals written during The Golden Age Of Popular Song. Featuring composers such as George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers and Cole Porter and featuring songs from Broadway Musicals such as Sound of Music, Oklahoma, Babes In Arms, The Gay Divorcee, Can Can, Girl Crazy, Porgy & Bess and others. Sonny and Perley will perform memorable hits such as Embraceable You, My Funny Valentine, My Favorite Things, Fascinating Rhythm, Night and Day and many others.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Too Marvelous For Words ~ A Tribute to Johnny Mercer

Johnny Mercer began writing songs at the age of 15 and eventually became one of the foremost figures of 20th century American popular music. From the mid-1930s through the mid-1950s, many of the songs Mercer wrote and performed were among the most popular hits of the time. He wrote the lyrics to more than a thousand songs, including compositions for movies and Broadway shows. Sonny & Perley highlight favorites including "Skylark", "Accentuate The Positive", "Blues In The Night" and "Moon River".

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Tour of Violin Styles

Tour of Violin Styles: Classical to Fiddle to Rock!(performance based presentation) Development and History of the Violin: includes instruments prior to the standard classical violin, through the Italian makers- into experimental violins, and ending with electric modern violins.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Traditional Sailing Music

Gregg and Susan Csikos (pronounced CHEE-kosh), long time solo performers, have united their talents to perform a program of high-energy seas shanties from the 7 nations, work songs and forebitters songs full of adventure and longing, reflecting the life of the sailors who sang them. The Rambling Sailors deliver their songs the way they were meant to be heard, with strong harmony and rhythm, accented with concertina and guitar. Don't be surprised to find yourself and the entire crew clapping and singing along. The Rambling Sailors are a fantastic duo dedicated to performing traditional and modern sea shanties and sea related music. Gregg and Susan Csikos (pronunced CHEE-kosh), long time solo performers, have united their talents to perform a program of high-energy seas shanties, work songs and forebitters songs full of adventure and longing, reflecting the life of the sailors who sang them.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Adult Family

Tribute to Woodie Guthrie

On Jully 14th of 1912 Woody Guthrie Was born in Okemah, Oklahoma. As he grew up he found his home caught in the desperation of the dust bowl that swept the midwest. As many farmers took what they had and headed for California to search for work, so did Woody. What they found was hundreds of thousands of other migrants from across the country also searching for opportunity. Work was hard to find. Living conditions and pay were bad and children starved as the land owners took advantage of the hard luck so many faced. Woody Guthrie began writing songs that spoke of these struggles and gave strength to an emerging labor movement. Songs like "This Land is Your Land" and "Pastures of Plenty" stirred the consciousness of those unaware of the dust bowl worker and these became the standard for the American protest song. His auto biography "Bound For Glory" is considered one of the most important pieces of literature in american music. Many songwriters have been directly influenced by Woody's music and spirit, most notably Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Pete Seeger and Woody's son Arlo. Today new performers like Ani DiFranco and Wilco still maintain a close allegiance to Guthrie's influence. 2012 marks the centennial of Woody Guthrie's birth. Charlie Mosbrook has put together a program about the great songwriters life, music, and lasting influence. As a performer, he has been acknowledged for his performances of Guthrie's music in the book "Hard Traveling: The Life and Legacy of Woody Guthrie" Robert Santelli (Currator of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and The Guthrie Achieves). He has led workshops on the subject during major folk festivals, and performed many of these songs at the Rock Hall during their week long conference on the subject of Mr Guthrie. Celebrate one of America's greatest musical, poetic and political influences through interactive story telling and songs. This program is suitable for all ages For an example of Charlie Mosbrook performing "Pastures of Plenty" please follow the link below <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIEnr8iFpPM"> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIEnr8iFpPM</a>

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Trickster Tales and Magic

Joshua Safford makes learning mythology fun through a fusion of storytelling, audience participation and magic. Joshua creates live special effects that bring new sparkle to old folklore that teaches cultural diversity and empowers children. See what teachers, librarians, principals, and kids themselves have to say. Joshua Safford delighted a diverse group of children and adults at the North Branch of Evanston Public Library with his dramatic program Trickster Tales and Magic. It was exciting to watch Mr. Safford educate his audience about myth, geography, and culture while introducing them to the cunning mischievous characters of Raven, Loki, Krishna and Coyote. He captivates audiences with clever illusions, imaginative storytelling and evocative costuming. He draws them in by encouraging group participation using volunteers from the audience. I would highly recommend Joshua for audiences young and old." Connie Heneghan, North Branch Manager, Evanston Public Library Evanston, IL

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen

Trickster Tales and Magic

Program Type: Magic

Ages: Children

Visit with Mark Twain

Storyteller Charles Kiernan, now retired from gainful employment, performs at theaters, listening clubs, schools, libraries, and arts festivals. He is also coordinator for the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild, Pennsylvania State Representative for the National Youth Storytelling Showcase and Pennsylvania State Liaison for the National Storytelling Network. He has, of late, been fobbing himself off as Mark Twain with some success. Twain is wont to ramble on about his boyhood memories, the newspaper publishing business, life on the Mississippi and frogs. Mostly, though, he likes to talk about the river. The intent of the show is to give the audience a bit of Twain's biography, his humor and his viewpoint. The subject for his talk is his evolving view on what is man. To illustrate his view on this subject at various points during his life, he feels compelled to give the audience some of his personal history (he being his favorite topic). His conclusions are what you might expect if you know something about Twain. It's the journey to that conclusion that is the fun. A Q&A will follow.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Adult Family

WE SPEAK IN RHYTHM

Audience participation plays a key role in this 45 minute performance about freedom, knowledge, and the importance of staying in school. Students are encouraged to take a poignant look at the African American experience through poetry, drama and dance and the fundemental role that artistic expression has played in shaping the lives of African Americans and Americas's rich cultural heritage.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

WORKSHOPS AND RESIDENCY PROGRAMS

WORKSHOPS AND RESIDENCY PROGRAMS Drama, Poetry, Writing & Dance individually, or all together developed to increase self esteem, self image, community pride, cultural awareness, and youth involvement.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Waltz Across Texas

Texas Music is a whole lot bigger than honky-tonks and cowboy hats. For 300 years, the Lone Star State has been a vast musical melting pot, from blues to polkas, from Cajun to Tejano, from Bob Wills to Buddy Holly, from "El Paso" to "The Midnight Special." Austin folksinger Steve Brooks leads listeners on a musical vacation across the cultures of Texas and great artists like Ernest Tubb, Freddy Fender, Cindy Walker, Marty Robbins, T-Bone Walker and Leadbelly.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult

Weird Science

Science! Everyone should love it! Unfortunately, it can sometimes seem intimidating. Tonight well quash those stereotypes as we discuss some of the strangest scientific studies ever published including "The Use of Cows as Earthquake Detectors", "The Diagnostic Value of CT and MRI in the Diagnosis of German Mardi Gras Donuts", and "The Beef Burger Injury". Well also show how each of us is inherently a scientist at heart as we conduct our own experiments during the session on chronic rhinotilexomania (nose picking) behavior and ice cream headache.

Program Type: Science

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Western Music Concert

Kerry Grombacher plays guitar and writes and performs contemporary folk and western songs. In the spirit of the troubadours of old, he paints vivid portraits and tells fascinating stories that are set in the landscape where hes worked and toured, from his home on New Orleans Bayou St. John to the desert Southwest, and up to Montana and the Northwest forests. Drawing on over forty years experience playing music, Grombachers work explores the boundaries of musical genres, and he frequently mixes traditions: cowboy songs written as mambos, polkas or in the Cajun idiom; a piece, inspired by a photograph, that combines spoken word verses and a melodic chorus; a blues-rumba written in the obscure chiastic form; and songs written in both Spanish and English. Grombacher's songs and stories reflect a love of this country and a deep knowledge of its history and its people.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Whatcha Gonna Do? - It's Up to You!

Whatcha Gonna Do? - It's Up to You! celebrates the universal values of healing through taking personal responsibility for our actions here on Earth, making peace with our fellow human beings, and taking an active role in making the world a better place. An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Women ad the Sea (Maritime Program)

There are an abundance of songs that describe the many different and diverse roles that women have played in Maritime songs and stories. In this program, Debra discusses these roles and sings examples of contemporary and traditional sea-songs. This illustrates how women have proven throughout history that sailing on the seven seas was not an activity restricted to men.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Yiddish Songs & Stories

Performed for the first time in Coffeyville, KS at the Coffeyville Community College Caney High School and a variety of other stages, and its perfect for schools, libraries and other community gathering places. These are the songs sung to me by members of my family, most notably my grandmother, and other companions I had while growing up. Included are stories of my family, adventures in researching family history, and other appropriate topics Songs include: Dona (made famous by Theodore Bikel and then Joan Baez) Oyfn Pripetchik (used by Steven Speilberg in Schindler's List) Unter Dayne Vayse Shteren (Under Your White Stars) Tumbalalaika (Play Balalaika!) Hob Ich a Por Oksn (I Have a Pair of Poodles) Many more. Stories include: The Coat of Patches The Rabbis Pipe (Peretz) My Brothers Drink (Aleichem) It Could Always Be Worse Forty Hares and a Princess and many more

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

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