Finally, Kids’ Music That’s All Grown-Up! Berklee College of Music Dean releases a collection of children’s songs.

Date: Nov 12, 2007

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http://www.debbieandfriends.net
617-794-0220
P.O. Box 703 Watertown, MA 02471

BOSTON, MA, November 16, 2007—Accomplished children’s music singer/songwriter Debbie Cavalier has released her much-anticipated first children’s music CD, Story Songs and Sing Alongs.

Story Songs and Sing Alongs is a masterful offering of family-friendly music that includes original songs about stories kids know and love: “Three Little Pigs,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Goldilocks;” familiar jokes such as in “Knock, Knock Song” and “I’m Not Tired;” as well as loads of games and surprises. The recording plays like a variety show, covering a diverse array of educational and stylistic approaches in rock, pop, country, reggae, Latin, and Broadway-esque styles. It is a unique, interactive listening experience that will appeal to parents and children alike. “I wanted to make each song an adventure for the whole family,” Debbie said. “It’s fun music that won’t drive parents crazy in the car!”

One song that may appeal to the parents in particular is the last song on the collection, “Love Is a Family.” An ‘80s Journey-like power ballad, “Love Is a Family” builds from a soft piano and vocal to a rocking full band, complete with a highly moving, emotion-filled gospel choir. (Warning: you may find yourself swaying with your lighter lifted high...) “‘Love Is a Family’ has moved people to tears,” said Debbie and Friends’ producer, Michael Carrera. “It’s a beautiful song, a powerful arrangement, and a universal message of love and hope that resonates with every family.” “Love is a Family” is of particular importance to Debbie, who wrote the song to celebrate the birth of her nephew Teddy, now two-years old.

Story Songs and Sing Alongs was a community effort that included the contributions of more than 15 Berklee College of Music faculty and students; Berklee folks add everything from harmonica, fiddle, banjo, and mandolin, to guitar, bass, drums, trumpet, trombone, and hambone. The recording also includes the singing voices of more than 15 children from the Greater Boston area—a reflection of Debbie’s philosophy of experiential learning. “I believe that music for children is all about music with children,” Debbie said. “These songs are all kid-tested and approved, and their enthusiasm comes shining through.”

Debbie is a trained musician, seasoned publishing professional, and music educator. Having graduated with a degree in music and music education at Berklee College of Music, Debbie taught elementary and high-school music, and spent many years in the music education publishing industry before becoming the Dean of Continuing Education at Berklee in 2003. Debbie has written more than 100 music education books, including music educator resources, instrument methods for children, and choral arrangements. Her work has won countless awards—most notably, the prestigious Great American Song Contest Honor Award. While managing editor for educational publications at Warner Bros., she worked with some of the world’s greatest icons in children’s music entertainment, including Shari Lewis and Bob McGrath of Sesame Street fame. Their influence is evident throughout each of her joyfully crafted songs.

Debbie (and many of her fanatic fans) live in Watertown, MA. When she’s not writing or performing music, she can be found in her kitchen making (and eating) homemade chocolate chip cookies, or strolling the sidewalks with her dog Sophie. Her fans continue to inspire her to create quality children’s music—or as Debbie likes to say, “Kids’ music that’s all grown-up!”