Programs

America's Groundbreaking Troubadour - Woody Guthrie

Born in 1912 Woody Guthrie is known at the "Dust Bowl Balladeer" - America's most prolific folk songwriter of the 20th century. Woody wrote hundreds, if not thousands, of songs that document the history, culture and concerns of 1930's, 40's and 50's America. He broke ground and forged a path for thousand of other troubadours like Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Phil Ochs and so many more to follow. Spook Handy has been studying under and playing concerts with Pete Seeger since 2003. Woody taught scores of songs to Pete Seeger and Pete has taught dozens of them to Spook. Spook also learned many of the stories behind the songs from Woody's autobiographic novel "Bound for Glory." These songs are highly educational, extremely fun and very sing-alongable. An excellent program for Festivals, Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

The history of the 1950's and 60's through the lens of popular music.

America faced itself in many new ways during the 1950’s and 60’s. In this exciting time, popular music evolved from being an escape from reality to being a powerful communication about it. In this entertaining and often humorous program, Marc reviews the social and political history and how it was expressed in popular song. In the presentation he uses a wide range of popular songs from that time including fun filled favorites like Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini, great rock tunes like Blue Suede Shoes and moving folk songs like Bob Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind. Because of copyrite issues, our sample is one of Marc's originals. It will give you an idea of his enormous talent and skill. This program is a fun and educational program for all ages.

Program Type: Music

Ages:

A Concert with Spook Handy

"Spook Handy in Concert" is the most popular show he presents. Instead of being theme oriented, this is just simply Spook, his trio or his full band showcasing his popular originals (including some award winning songs) from his 4 CDs. Sprinkled with occasional 60s and 70s folk songs or an obscure original from the deep archives, 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: Teen Adult Family

A Folk-Singer's journey

Is a folk-music history lesson with songs and stories of Folk Music's beginnings, Kerry's time with the New Christy Minstrels and the many directions folk music is heading.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

A Little Bit of Kindness Goes a Long, Long Way

Anti Bullying Program

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

A Mothers’ Day Celebration and Concert

A very special Mother’s Day concert that honors the journey of mothers on many levels: our personal mothers, our collective mothers, and mother earth. Some of the most beautiful songs ever written were about mothers, and this concert will feature many of them through a blend of popular, traditional, and original songs. Presented with grace, humor and the insight of Barb’s 31 years of motherhood, it’s sure to be a concert experience you’ll cherish. Moms, bring your children of all ages. Adult children, bring your Moms of all ages. Lets celebrate mothers!

Program Type: Special Events

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

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

Ageless Wisdom For Modern Times

Through biographical stories, legends and the occasional stirring quotation or poem Geraldine motivates young audiences to think creatively, follow their dreams and become all that they were created to be. Along the way, amid much laughter and group participation, young audiences learn – almost by osmosis – that character counts. Enduring values such as honesty, responsibility, respect and caring are woven into gripping, hilarious tales that delight listeners and nurture a sense of wonder, excitement and possibility that will last long after the performance is over.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

Alternative Tuning Workshop

For guitar players of all levels. Kerry shares his approach to alternative tunings and the magic they can bring to the instrument he loves

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

America's Story through Folk Songs with Spook Handy

Spook Handy's program "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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

American Children: Friends & Family Songs

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

Americana/Roots Dulcimers: "Toe-tapping, smile-inducing folkgrass"

A Concert with Steve Eulberg carries forward the wealth of our traditional heritage and combines it with the best of our current creativity to help us re-create, refresh and renew our interest and engagement with those around us.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

An Acoustical Musical Journey

The Costello Family takes children and their families on a journey to experience the joys of natural music making through singing, and accompanied by acoustic instruments. Together they introduce the audience to the bluegrass instruments and how they fit together in a band, utilizing popular bluegrass, folk, and country favorites. Through this journey children gain a unique opportunity to step into a different time of musical experience, one without the drum sets, synthesizers, and electronics. Having the program presented by a family with children of different ages also gives the young audience and opportunity to connect to the music in a way that helps them to see the accessibility of such acoustic music to anyone, of any age.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

Anna Wiggins - Mill Girl

A story of life working in a mill in 1840, as seen through the eyes of a thirteen year old girl (For grades 3 – 5)

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

Another Ground Breaking Troubadour - Pete Seeger

Spook Handy has been playing alongside Pete Seeger several times each year since 2003. Pete sings a couple of Spook's songs and Spook sings plenty of Pete's. It's no surprise some of Pete's expertise in engaging audiences with genuine human interaction and good honest acoustic music has rubbed off on Spook. 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. Pete Seeger turned 94 on May 3, 2014. An excellent program for Festivals, Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places. Program Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

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

Bards & Blarney - Songs of the Irish Poets

Celebrating the Irish Bardic tradition, this concert includes ancient poetry and legends accompanied by harp as well as songs based on old stories and lore with lyrics by modern poets. Mystery, romance and blarney combine with music for a delightful program which includes not only sprightly dance tunes and haunting ballads, but also the legends, lore and engaging rapport with which the duo has always delighted audiences. The Bardic tradition has always been strong in Celtic societies and the power of words and music held in great esteem. Ancient poetry, stories and songs are filled with mythology and symbolism, wit and satire. During the nineteenth century there was a great resurgence of interest in these themes. Poets such as Thomas Moore, William Butler Yeats, Padraic Colum and John Montague have written romantic, mysterious works based on old stories and lore, many of which have been set to music. This program features those songs as well as ancient folk tales supported with the music of the Celtic harp. The Celtic lands have provided rich inspiration for many musicians, and Gosbee and Lane are no exception. Both have had an avid interest in collecting and performing this music for most of their lives. In particular, Julia Lane's dedication has won her three awards for her playing of the Celtic harp. Their performances feature poignant ballads sung in Lane's ethereal soprano and Gosbee's rich baritone supported with harp and guitar. Interspersed with songs are stories and joyous dance tunes played on fiddle and tin whistle. The duo will share lore and history associated with the music as well as their own experiences travelling in Ireland.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Bardy Women: Wild Women of Shakespeare's Plays & Times

Kate, Beatrice, Jaquenetta and Queen Margaret: Shakespeare's 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 weren't nearly as colorful as some of the real women who lived in Shakespeare's 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

Be The Best You You Can Be

A self-esteem, anti-drug school assembly for K-8 graders.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen

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

Breaking New Ground - Tales from a Traveling Troubadour

Spook Handy has been to every American state except North Dakota, Hawaii, Michigan and Long Island (huh?). And he’s met all kinds of people with all kinds of backgrounds – some comical, some downright sad. In this inspiring, heartwarming and sometimes humorous concert Spook shares stories and songs about the places he’s been, people he’s met and the predicaments that changed his perspectives on life and given him new understanding of the true spirit of America. An excellent program for Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places. Program Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

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

Build A B.R.I.D.G.E.

Believe And Reach with an I-CAN attitude for your Dreams and Goals Everyday! A school assembly designed for K-8 graders.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children

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

Can you do that on a Dulcimer?

The music one can play on any instrument is only limited by the players’ imagination and inspiration! Blues, Jazz, Bossa Nova and more.

Program Type: Music

Ages: 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/Irish Children's Program - Songs and Stories with Ken O'Malley

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 was a featured artist in the Los Angeles Philharmonic "Summersounds" Education and Community Programs for children at the Hollywood Bowl in 2011 with great success!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children

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: Teen 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: Children 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 John Batdorf

Some may ask, what is it about the qualities of John Batdorf that set him apart from other excellent singer-songwriters… It’s his vulnerability: his complete opening the door to his heart. John invites the listener into his soul and shares a couple hours, open and trusting as he sings of love and hope: transforming despair to hope, hate to love and fear/ignorance to tolerance/acceptance. We share his understanding, forgiveness and are filled with compassion when the song is done. When you hear John sing live for the first time, you'll understand why his music has meant so much to his fans that have now spanned nearly four decades!

Program Type: Music

Ages: 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 Stephanie & Luke

Bettman & Halpin's music is new and catchy; an engaging mixture of folk, roots, bluegrass and jazz with memorable lyrics and killer instrumentation. The two of them raise the roof with their soaring harmonies and foot tapping fiddles.

Program Type: Music

Ages: 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

Concerts for Adults & Seniors

Eddie has a repertoire of over 500 songs from which he draws to entertain adult and senior groups. His gentle and comfortable stage presence, storytelling, and involving his audiences has proven to be successful both on small local and large national stages.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Destination? Slammer! True Tales Of Life And Laughter

For just over five years Geraldine was involved in bringing creativity, hope and inspiration into Maryland prisons and jails, first as a volunteer and then, for almost two and a half years as a Chaplain in a men’s state prison. In “Destination? Slammer! Geraldine asks the question – what on earth trained her for such a task? How did a British convent schoolgirl end up in an American prison? To find answers she takes listeners on a hilarious journey filled with wit, wisdom and delightfully quirky adventures that leaves audiences gasping with laughter, moved, and wondering what comes next!

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Adult

Developing your Song-writing chops

Targeted at age groups from pre-school to retired, Steve helps to uncover and equip the creativity of participants to nurture their expression, communication and humanity, drawing on the experiences of their everyday life to fashion art from the mundane to the profound.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Devils On Horseback And other Odd Journeys

Join Geraldine as she tells true, hilarious stories of her inadvertent adventures. Meet her eccentric Great Aunt Eileen; ballet-dancing wrestlers; a knife-toting fellow hitchhiker; unlikely angels; and a talking parrot! Travel with her from England, to Canada, to Spain and America as she discovers that ordinary people are capable of extraordinary sacrifice and that no matter how great the pressure to conform, it is imperative to stay true to yourself and follow your dreams.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Adult Family

Didjeridoo? How about you?

Demonstration and invitation to participation in the songs and stories of Australia. This can also be a workshop on learning to buzz and circular breathe, making use of PVC pipe, cups of water and straws!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult Family

Digging for Adventure: Tales of Heroes, Villains, and Tricksters

For 2012's Dig into Reading Kids Summer Reading theme: Fairy Tales and Folktales about spoiled princesses, stubborn creatures, and sly tricksters.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

Do Unto Others

Bible stories and modern-day stories with Biblical themes for children

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

Drumming the Mythic Heart

In his performance, "Drumming the Mythic Heart: An Evening of Sacred Storytelling," Brian invites the listener to follow the rhythm of the drum to that complex and mythic heart of the story, a place where we ourselves live, breath and dance among the ancient tales. Brian tells stories from a number of different cultures, including: Tibetan, Native American, Jewish, Russian, Borneo, Grimms and more.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Eating Baba Yaga: Myths and Stories of Surviving the Extraordinary Life

This very popular program explores the wonderful archetype of Baba Yaga. While often considered the witch in the Russian Fairytales, and one who seems to want to destroy us, she in fact want us to become the complex humans we were always meant to be. Shared are the Russian tale “Maiden Tzar” and the Nubian “Necklace” Story. A live DVD of this performance, recorded at the Elastic Arts Foundation in Chicago, was released in 2011 (See review in Video Librarian Nov/Dec 2012 issue)

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

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

Elvis and the Superstars

Starring Dave Ehlert - One Man, 1000 voices. Featured on "Oprah, CNN, FOX and Legends Stage. This performance includes "appearances" by Elvis, Neil Diamond, Nat King Cole, Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, Roy Orbison, Willie Nelson, Dean Martin and many more!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

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. Everyone's favorite is his song, Ooh, I Love My Coffee. 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: Teen 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 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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

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. (Program is 45 minutes long) * 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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

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 California to the New York Islands: A Tribute to Woodie Guthrie

On July 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

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen 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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Ground Breaking Troubadours

Spook Handy has been called "a modern day troubadour in the style of Pete Seeger and Phil Ochs." In fact, Spook's style of acoustic guitar, harmonica and singing fits right in with the Ground Breaking Troubadours of the 20th Century - Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Peter Paul and Mary, Phil Ochs and others - who paved the path for thousands of acoustic songwriters and folk musicians to follow. This program tells the history of America through songs that were often the first of their kind. Many of the songs in this program and the stories behind them were taught to Spook by his mentor Pete Seeger. An excellent program for Festivals, Libraries, Arts Centers, Churches, Schools and other meeting places.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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen 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

Hammered Dulcimer around the world

Samplings of the music played on dulcimers from China, Middle East, Europe, British Isles and the USA. The hammered dulcimer (and its cousins) are found on nearly every continent of the world. This program explores and demonstrates many kinds of music played on these instruments around the world.

Program Type: Music

Ages: 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

His Story - My Story

Kerry shares the Easter story through the songs of his #1 nationally charted CD, His Story-my story. Videos and scriptures help bring this story to life.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

Homespun Instruments

Great fun for all ages, this interactive workshop is designed to bring out the artist in everyone. Participants join in on traditional tunes, playing a variety of “household” instruments ~ from washtubs and scrub boards to spoons and saws, and every shaker, bell and drum in between. The focus is on the creativity of making music and instruments. Some sing old favorites while others learn them anew and a grand time is had by all!

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Family

How to write a Traditional Song

You can’t write a traditional song! Or can you? David Nigel Lloyd has spent nearly 30 years writing trad/DNL songs in which he balances the personal voice of the singer-songwriter with the collective voice of the traditional singer. Through song performances, musical dissection and numerous anecdotes, DNL shows how he did it and why. This program contrasts the contemporary notion of intellectual property and the artist’s reputation against the far older power of the anonymous utterance that has no literary reputation to uphold or advertise

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

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

If You're Not Afraid of your Neighbor, You Might Find Your Music in their Instruments!

The Germans from Russia (or Volga Deutsch) brought the hackbrett (hammered dulcimer) with them first from Germany to Russia, then from Russia to the breadbasket states of the USA. Those who settled in eastern Colorado, western Nebraska, southwestern Wyoming and western Kansas still treasure the sounds of the dulcimer in their “dutch hop” music. Lecture/Demonstration

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

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

Instrument Education & History

How exactly do you play a bowed psaltery? What IS a bowed psaltery? How about a Bodhran? Why are they called “Bones” in Ireland? How does a concertina work? What’s the oldest instrument? Matthew answers these and many more questions in an interactive musical session featuring many of his ancient and unique instruments. For each instrument, he leads a discussion, answers questions, and demonstrates the attributes and features. Fun for all ages, this is an informative and exciting session long remembered!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

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 O'Malley - Irish History in Song and Story

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

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

Kerry Patrick Clark - A Musical Norman Rockwell

This former New Christy Minstrel member, #1 nationally charted singer/songwriter, shares the songs and stories of his 7 studio recordings.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Family

Laugh Cry Until You Sigh

Releasing through the music. Barb Ryman will take you on a ride mixing two extremes of music, the very funny with the very poignant. Barb has mastered this art and shares it through a workshop/concert that melds her knowledge as a therapist, counseling psychologist and alternative energy worker with her gift as an award- winning touring songwriter. Get ready to laugh a lot and shed a few tears as well, all while being informed and entertained. Realize that what renders the heart vulnerable is the same opening that allows it to leap for joy and burst with laughter. Experience it through the music and expand it into your own lives.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen 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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Lights, Camera, Audition: An Interactive Audition Workshop for Teens

A Workshop for Teens on the In's, Out's & How To's of Auditioning for Stage & Screen This energetic, fun and interactive workshop will run through all of the basics on how to audition for stage, TV and film. By focusing on the fun, this workshop helps to eliminate the nevous butterflies that can get in the way of doing your best in an audition. Exercises with cold readings, introductions, tongue-twisters, and camera tests, as well as answers to questions about headshots, submissions,agents and more! Come for this 60-minute adventure into the joys of auditioning and walk out a star!

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: 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. (Program runs 45 minutes) 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

Little House on the Bluegrass Prairie

Prior to the modern age, the lives of children, such as Laura Ingalls, were full of music, though they could not turn on an iPod, or CD player to hear their favorite music. Instead they created music themselves, along with their family and community. The Costello Family play and sing together, much as families through history would have enjoyed music. Together they provide children with a unique opportunity to step into a different time of musical experience utilizing the music from the Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder, set to their own lively arrangements.

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

Love's Many Guises (special Valentine's Day program)

'Love's Many Guises' pairs quotes about love from literature with original songs on the same theme. The program has quote/song pairings about friendship, loneliness, partnership, and self-esteem, as well as more traditional love themes.

Program Type: Special Events

Ages: Teen Adult

Marc Black in concert…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

Mares’ Tales ~ A Celebration of Women’s History

March is Women’s History month, but this concert will be enjoyed any time of the year by those interested in a rich collection of ballads and anecdotes, chronicling some of America’s leading ladies. Whether she is a ‘mail-order’ bride, maritime legend, renegade or trailblazer, the heroines of these tales will not be forgotten!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Mark Twain 100 Years Later

Dave Ehlert portrays Mark Twain in "A Visit with Mark Twain". Libraries across the country have been thrilled with Dave's portrayal of this wonderful character. From June Franzen - Phelps Library - "The Phelps Library was thrilled to host "A Visit with Mark Twain". Mr. Ehlert is an accomplished and wonderfully entertaining performer. His knowledge of Samuel Clemens' life & works is extensive and his show was appropriate for all ages. An awesome program!

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Adult Family

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

Memories of a Former Kid

Stories of childhood schemes and adventures, told with an Appalachian flair.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

Mr. Steve’s Folk Music for Little Folks

Mr. Steve brings a variety of traditional folk instruments and songs and tunes for an interactive, and engaging experiential learning presentation with little folks from age 1 through Primary grades. Instruments can include: Mountain and Hammered Dulcimer, Guitar, Mandolin, Autoharp, Dulci-bro, Banjammer, Banjo, Irish Bodhran, Kalimba/mbira/Sansa, African Djembe, Didjeridoo and more! Songs include: Traditional folk songs, nursery rhymes, contemporary children's, songs we create together, music for listening, dancing, moving in time. Hands-on Experience whenever possible!

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children

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

Music from the 11th through the 18th Centuries

The Early Music program highlights music from the 11th through the 18th Centuries including the Renaissance Period. The Music featured in the program comes from England, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Some of the instruments of that time period were the Harp, the Recorder, the Bowed Psaltery, the Penny Whistle and the Human Voice. The program features a selection of instrumental and vocal music from the countries mentioned. A Early Music program will feature: - Traditional Celtic and Renaissance costumes that were worn by Minstrels and Bards - Live performance of Early Music from the 11th through the 17th centuries - Exposure to a variety of Early Musical instruments - What life was like for an Early Musician - A brief question and answer session

Program Type: Music

Ages: Family

Music of the Maine Coast

"What's Castlebay all about? -- Seafaring, the darkness and lightness of the coast of Maine, the rhythm of the tides" -- Peter Spectre, marine author Castlebay treats an audience to a musical journey through time and across the Atlantic as they interweave timeless songs, spritely dance tunes, and haunting aires inspired by the spirit of our rich nautical and Celtic heritage. Exuberant vocals are supported with Julia Lane's unique self-taught, award-winning Celtic harp style, and Fred Gosbee's expertise on 12-string guitar, violin and woodwinds. Their deep appreciation for the unique character of their home state of Maine, as well as the Celtic lands, Castlebay blends history, legend and experience into their personable performance style. Since 1984 Fred Gosbee and Julia Lane have created a body of work which celebrates Maine's maritime heritage and environment. Known for their arrangements of traditional music, they have also received critical praise for their evocative original compositions; Gosbee for his finely crafted narrative ballads and Lane for her imagery and beautiful melodies. Castlebay has frequently appeared at sea music festivals in both the United States and Europe They have shared their songs and stories on concert stages from Nova Scotia to Florida where they have delighted audiences of all ages. Together, Lane and Gosbee have written, recorded and produced two albums of original music, Song of the Sea and The Ballad of Cappy John . These songs depict the lives of those who live by the sea, not only the deep water sailors, but also the shipwrights, coasters, fisherman and their wives. These are the people who established Maine as a maritime legend and who continue to build that legend with their daily lives of skill, hard work and pride. In 2006 they released a live concert recording of maritime songs, Islands In Time. This CD was recorded in several venues from Maine to North Carolina between 2004 and 2006.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Native Dance Presentations

Our Dance and Singing workshops are very interactive. The students spend the 60 minutes singing and dancing with us. The length of the workshops can be modified for what works for your schedule. The students learn the basics to First Nations music and basic song structures. They have a great time while they are learning. These workshops hit very specific Ontario curriculum expectations in the Arts as well as Health & Physical Education for both Elementary and Secondary levels. The workshops are geared to the age and the abilities of the participants.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

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

No Fracking Way

In his tireless crisscrossing of the Country, Marc has been confronted with some of the unintended, and horrible consequences of hydro-fracking. He responded by composing 'No Fracking Way' and recording it with John Sebastian from the Lovin' Spoonful, Eric Wessberg of Dueling Banjos fame and a hundred Woodstock citizens singing along on the final choruses. The song has been played at rallies as far away as Australia, South Africa, France and the British Isles. Marc performs that song and others that reflect his concern for our environment with a sense of humor and wit that is always entertaining. (No matter what your political persuasion). His sincerity shines through each song. Once you hear Marc, you'll see why he's been invited to sing all across the Country including a recent special appearance at Pete Seeger's birthday party.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

Nuns I have Known

Told from the perspective of an English convent school girl, these stories take a hilarious, but thoughtful look at how past events - and the personalities that populated them - shape our futures.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Adult Family

Old & Strange: Songs of the North Country

David Nigel Lloyd has been delivering his ballad singing program, Old and Strange: Songs of the North Country, for over 20 years. To many a teachers’ surprise, students nearly always sing along —enthusiastically. Focusing on a handful of carefully chosen story telling songs —ballads— of North America and the British Isles, DNL’s program also includes story-telling, data and discussion. He sings about outlaws (Robin Hood), haunted trees, fairy queens, pirates and plain old sibling rivalry —taken to an extreme. To be as effective as possible, he strives to keep his presentations Engaging and Fun. He has adapted the program to all age groups above first grade. It can be delivered in a variety of single or multi-event formats. Though Old & Strange is aligned with California’s state music standards, teachers should also expect oral language tie-ins. [Suggested audiences: public or private schools.]

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Family

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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Family

Patriotism Presentation

Eddie combines his vast experience as a former social studies teacher, and musical ability, with both cover and original songs to present a multimedia show, “This Land Is Your Land,” celebrating the history, beauty and greatness of our nation. This programs are well suited for grades 3-8, selected high school groups, adults and senior citizens.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult

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

Reduce, Re-use, Recycle

Birds do it, environmentalists do it, and musicians do it, too; re-purpose old things for a new need. We’ll start with a familiar song, take it apart, and use its pieces as the basis for a totally new song! It’s a great way to learn a bit about melody, harmony, rhythm, and rhyme. Fun for musicians of all ages, and a peek behind the curtain for avid listeners.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

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

Rites of Passage

For 2012's Summer Reading Program for Teens and Adults: Tough lessons learned mold us into caring, responsible sojourners on this earth. Join Linda Goodman's storytelling journey, where those who take life's lessons to heart emerge stronger and wiser.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Teen Adult

Robert Burns - the Man, the Myth & the Music

The poet Robert Burns (1759-1796) collected and wrote new lyrics for hundreds of traditional Scottish folk tunes which he felt were falling into obscurity. Working in the Scots language of the lowlands, which is distinct from the Gaelic of the highlands and islands, he produced many masterpieces of 18th century poetry and song. Among these are My Love is Like a Red Red Rose, Comin' Through the Rye and Auld Lang Syne, popular even today at New Year's celebrations. His short but colorful life has become the subject of both legend and scholarly documentary. The duo Castlebay (Julia Lane & Fred Gosbee) have studied the man,the myth, and the music. They have presented performances for arts centers, concert series, and schools throughout the northeast. In their program romantic love songs are interspersed with lively dance tunes as well as poems and anecdotes about Scotland's National Poet. "Thank you so much for coming to the Ridgefield Library to share the fascinating life and work of Robert Burns with our audience. What a wonderful evening of music, poetry, and song. You can't get a better combination than that! Everyone I spoke to afterwards really enjoyed the show, especially the Scottish contingent. I think you probably made a lot of people yearn for the "old country!" Good luck and thanks again, Leslie Lambton Adult Programming Director The Ridgefield Library and Historical Association Ridgefield, Connecticut Castlebay is well known for their sensitive arrangements of traditional Scottish music. Both Julia Lane and Fred Gosbee are fine vocalists and support their singing with a variety of instruments including Celtic harp, guitar, fiddle and woodwinds. They have toured the British Isles annually since 1993 playing at folk clubs, art centres, and festivals. They have recorded several albums of both traditional and original work including Ae Fond Kiss and Rantin’, Rovin’, Robin, which feature the songs of Robert Burns.

Program Type: Music

Ages: 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 & Bullying

Eddie successfully uses his former guidance counselor skills as music to convey messages that, in many instances, would not be given proper reception if presented as a lecture. His songs are entertaining, engaging, and thought provoking, and can easily be followed by a question/answer session or group discussion.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen

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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult

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

Singing the True Song

What is your true song? What is it really about? To whom are you actually singing? Starting with the paleolithic cave paintings of Southwestern Europe, David Nigel Lloyd shows how todays’ songwriters, by asking these questions of themselves, could turn their art (as did the cave painters) into an act of metaphor. StTS reveals the crucial element of song-writing that nearly all songwriting courses —based as they are in formulae and method— fail to acknowledge. StTS has been delivered sucessfuly as a songwriters’ workshop series.

Program Type: Workshops

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 with Kerry Patrick Clark

This VERY interactive workshop is for songwriters of ALL skill/knowledge levels.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Teen Adult

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

Spine Tinglers

Scary and not-so-scary Halloween and campfire stories

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

Stoking the Fire, Stringing the Harp

Please join the Faithful Fool’s Street Ministry in presenting Northwest Storyteller Brian Rohr as we engage in one of the oldest acts known to humans: listening to the old stories as a community shared in the ways of the oral tradition. In his performance, Stoking the Fire, Stringing the Harp, Brian invites the listener to dance with the themes of feeling lost, appropriate anger, unexpected compassion, artistry and renewal. By doing this through story and in community, we recognize and find meaning in the commonality and uniqueness of our human condition. In this way we become more than just audience, we become participants in this ancient act, feeding our soul with the nourishment gifted by our ancestors.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Teen Adult Family

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 for Children & Families

Brian offers a versatile program, telling the old stories from many different cultures, which may include Tibetan, Native American, Jewish, Russian, Borneo, Northern European (Grimms) and more. Using voice and rhythm, the listeners are invited to follow the sound of the drum to the mythic heart of the story, where we ourselves live, breath and dance among the ancient tales.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children 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 three main components: Introduction – First, people gather 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. Storytelling - 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. Feeding the Story - 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 about it, what didn’t we like? What delighted us, confused us or disgusted us? Where may we have found ourselves in the story, a part of the story that reminds us of our own lives? 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 and vital and important sources of wisdom, teaching us about 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, which means ‘to draw out.’

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

Stroke of Genius, concert and documentary film presentation

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

Tea In The Slammer

The humorous, gritty, true story of a convent-raised British woman who discovers a surprising use for her tea-making skills while working behind the razor wire as a chaplain at the largest men’s prison in Maryland.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: 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 Choice That Changed Everything

Seemingly small decisions can cause life to change dramatically.. These true stories and legends show the importance of making the right choices. Gripping, funny and insightful!

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children

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 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 Holly and the Ivy - a Celtic Winter Festival

Maine’s premier Celtic duo, Castlebay, will “drive cold winter away” with joyous and mysterious seasonal songs and tunes from Ireland, Scotland and the British Isles. The lilting sound of Celtic harp, Irish flute, fiddle and guitar will mingle with vibrant songs of revelry and wonder. The celebration of the winter solstice was one of the most important in the calendar of the ancient people of the British Isles and Ireland. Many of the enigmatic circles of standing stones that rise from the wind-swept landscape are oriented to the positions of the sun and moon in different seasons. The word "yule" means "wheel" and represents the turning of the sun-wheel from darkness to light . The traditional music is filled with the symbolism of light conquering darkness, rebirth and the evergreen power of life. Legends and tales abound featuring the affirmation of lifeforce in the form of greenmen and power animals such as the stag and the wild boar. In addition to these ancient stories and symbols, the lore and music of Celtic Christianity are mysterious and beautiful. Deep in the most desperate darkness the hope that came with the coming of Christ sustained those people of faith. Miracles and magic abound as the sun returns and the joy of a child’s birth remind us of the light in our lives. Come celebrate, sing along and experience a little Celtic enchantment.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

The Magic Carpet Ride

Through folk tales from around the world, audiences hear tales of tigers; hidden treasure; kings and woodchoppers; bravery; faith; courageous princesses; determination; disguise and enchantment! These ancient stories have a way of encouraging imagination, encapsulating wisdom, promoting cultural understanding and bonding listeners together as they become fellow travelers on a magic carpet ride to the land of long ago and far away.

Program Type: Storytelling

Ages: Children Family

The Modern Day Homesteader

Inspired by two of America’s last remaining homesteaders and Miss “V”s fourteen-year stay on their remote Wyoming ranch, “The Modern Day Homesteader” is a unique and engaging one-hour documentary incorporating slides, narration and music. Told through the eyes of a young greenhorn, this heartfelt presentation will rekindle memories for some and offer new imagery for others as it chronicles the oft-forgotten lifestyle of pioneers who settled the West. Upon request, a short musical performance and an open discussion will bookend the show.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Adult Family

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 as everyone builds a bracelet which shows their own DNA sequences. We‘ll also talk about real people with super abilities just like these.

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The Science behind Superheros

Have you ever wondered about Superheros? Come join Dr. Robert Pyatt to explore the science behind Superheros!

Program Type: Workshops

Ages: Children 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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Children Teen Adult Family

The Songs that Weave the Web of Community.

Tracing our common ties through the songs we share helps to re-weave the tattered fringes of our torn communities. Uncovering the joys and sorrows that we have in common, using the resulting songs to bridge the divides between us.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Adult Family

The Truth of True Thomas

“True Thomas,” better known as “Thomas the Rhymer,” is among the greatest of Scottish ballads. For many years, American high school students would encounter it —somewhat stripped of its power without it’s melody— in their English lit text books. DNL sings and tells the story, it’s Arthurian forebear and his own personal version. Replete with vestiges of Norse shamanism, the ballad in its time (the 17th century) set out to show how a habitual liar became a prophet. It tells today’s audiences how a gifted hack becomes an artist. [Suggested audiences: Celtic cultural organizations, GATE or honors English students.]

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult

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

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

Top 10 tips for Beginning Performing Artists (how to get started, and how to stay in)

This is a lecture and Q&A for students considering any type of career in the performing arts. Elaine gives concrete, practical tips about how to set up your finances, work life, and support network to help you succeed personally and professionally for the long haul. Includes handout with detailed business materials guidance. (Note: it is NOT about how to get an agent.) ("This was the first time ANYBODY at Stanford has EVER spoken to me so clearly and concisely on how to pursue a music career. I just wanted to send you this note so you knew how much I appreciated it." - Stanford University undergrad)

Program Type: Other

Ages: Teen Adult

Tracing the Lilt

Music migrated across The Pond with immigrants of previous generations, and then morphed into its own sound, which is still happening today. We’ll trace Irish songs over five centuries - songs that jumped from Ireland to America, from America back, stayed there, and started here - and hear how the Celtic lilt weaves through them all.

Program Type: Music

Ages: 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

Trails West

This program focuses on the unique and exciting era which followed the conclusion of the Civil War. From Tie Hacks and Cowhands to Pioneers and Outlaws, the colorful characters that helped shape American history come to life through stories and songs, as The Gypsy Cowbelle conducts a tour through the era of exploration and settling of the American West.

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

Visions of Turtle Island

We use our multimedia screen to help us address some pervasive sterotypes in an interesting and educational way. We believe that learning should be fun and we do our best to edu-tain audiences of all ages. We bring all of our own multimedia equipment needed for "Visions of Turtle Island". "Visions of Turtle Island" is a great show for both Elementary and Secondary age students. There are many Ontario Curriculum Expectations that are met with this show. The show is very interactive. Students and Staff alike are entertained while they are getting historical and cultural information. Also included in the show are participation dances and an instrument demonstration.

Program Type: Other

Ages: Teen Adult Family

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

WRITINGS FROM THE WILD ROAD: WORDS & MUSIC

One-time forest service fire lookout, poet and award-winning songwriter TR Ritchie spins an autobiographical tale that begins with a chance discovery in his local library. It leads him into the American west and up wilderness trails to the windy heights of mountain ridges, wanders through the red-rock canyons of the desert southwest and on into the life of a traveling musician performing in concert venues from Boston to Austin to Santa Cruz and beyond. Informed as much by literary as musical influences, Ritchie writes and sings of the things which connect us all – beauty, the natural world, connections. Echoes of his favorite authors can be heard in his work: Thoreau, Aldo Leopold, Terry Tempest Williams, Edward Abbey, Gary Snyder, Norman Maclean and Mary Oliver among others, and the foundations of his music is equally eclectic, reflecting American a influences of folk, country, blues, swing and ragtime . With more than a thousand concerts behind him, five CD’s of original music and a first volume of poems and illustrations to his credit, the journey continues, and Ritchie wields his considerable skill as a storyteller in describing the sometimes-inspired, sometimes-accidental road he has traveled in becoming a writer and musician.

Program Type: Music

Ages: Teen Adult

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 loves it! In this workshop, we'll create a mini-science museum in your space so everyone can explore their love of science through hands-on activities and strange science experiments. The event can be tailored to any specific age group (adults vs kids) and will feature activities like investigating magnetism, tornado tubes, static electricity, or left/ right hand preference. We'll also discuss some of the strangest scientific studies ever published including "The Use of Cows as Earthquake Detectors", and "The Personalities of Robot Vacuum Cleaners". The exact content of the session will be tailored to your specific group, but some do experiments travel long distances better than others. Dr. Pyatt is happy to work with you to design a session that's prefect for your group.

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 Length can vary to meet your needs 45 - 90 minutes.

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

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