Musicians

940 Dance CompanyTop

Contact: Susan Rieger
Lawrence Arts Center
940 New Hampshire
Lawrence, KS 66044
(785) 843-2787
FAX (785) 843-6629
Email:940dance@sunflower.com
Website:940dancecompany.org

The 940 Dance Company (formerly the Prairie Wind Dancers) is a professional contemporary dance company dedicated to exploring and communicating the commonality of human experience through dance theatre. Under the direction of award-winning choreographer Susan Rieger, the company presents an innovative and accessible repertory that has delighted and moved audiences of all ages. The five-member company has been touring in the Midwest for the past 20 years, sharing dance through concerts, lecture/demonstrations, workshops and master classes. NOTE: Performances and workshops within 90 miles of Kansas City must be booked through Young Audiences.

Word Dance K-5 Grade Level

Word Dance puts text into motion by looking at the power of words and dance to communicate ideas and images. Beginning with letters, the five dancers build words, sentences, poetry, and a story with the help of the audience.

In the Moment 6-8 Grade Level

In the Moment explores dance improvisation and highlights critical thinking and decision-making. Sportscaster Improv has two commentators who follow the action of the dancers. In another improv, dancers dive and fall into each other with cues and miscues.

Inside Dance 9-12 Grade Level

Inside Dance weaves together performance, information and Q & A to bring the audience inside the choreographic process. This fun and stimulating presentation demonstrates how choreographers make choices and shows a brief history of dance and the various forms of dance.

Dance Workshop K-5 Grade Level

Children learn about shapes (nouns) and movement (verbs). We practice safe space bubbles, then work with poems or stories and have groups of children move as they hear them. We also incorporate a shape museum, where children visit some interesting shapes and carefully move in, around, and through without touching the shapes. We incorporate music or drumming in a stop and go dance, teaching children to have self-control.

Age Suitability: Shows available for elementary-, middle-, and high school-aged audiences, as well as adults.

Program Length: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Fee: Performance with five dancers – $510; three dancers – $353. Workshop with one dancer – $75.

Special Requirements: An open space approximately 25′ x 30′ for the large group. Floor must be very clean. Access to space one hour prior to performance for set up and warm up.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: September through April. A limited number of Dance Workshops may be scheduled during the summer months. Contact Susan about availability.

References: New listing – has presented at 12 area schools and Wonderscope Children’s Museum.

Submitted by NEKLS

Alan CunninghamTop

2460 Stafford Terrace
Ottawa, KS 66067
(785) 242-1331
Email: ackidsong@yahoo.com
Website: www.alancunninghamkidsongs.com

Alan Cunningham has been writing songs and teaching elementary music for the past twenty years. He started writing and sharing his songs with his students and now enjoys sharing them with kids all around the region. Alan presents fun-filled songs, and makes them even more exciting by telling the stories behind them. Trains, teeny tiny turtles, bumpy roads, teddy bears and big bad bumble bees are all part of every show. He even sings about taking a bath in a square metal tub! He has performed at libraries, schools, and literature festivals across the area. Kids laugh and sing along as they move to the music. A full hour of fun for kids young and old – everyone!!

Age Suitability: 3 years – 6th grade.

Program Length: One hour.

Fee: $150 plus mileage for NEKLS member libraries; $200 plus mileage for other venues.

Special Requirements: Table and electrical outlet.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: Anytime in summer. Evenings and weekends during the school year.  Other times are negotiable.

References: Burlingame Community Library; Wellsville Community Library; Ottawa Library; Atchison Public Library; Johnson County Libraries; Fort Scott Library; Overbrook Public Library; Carbondale City Library; Wichita Public Libraries; Lyndon Carnegie Library; Wetmore Public Library; Corning City Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Aaron FowlerTop

1440 Park Place
Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 207-4715
Email: aaron@aaronfowler.org
Website: aaronfowler.org

Making a Big Splash with Music (Pre-K through 2nd grade)
Program includes steady-beat activities, playing of instruments, letter sound identification, and movement.

Make a Splash Down at the River (3rd – 5th grade)
Program includes movement and sequencing activities, critical thinking activities, and LOTS of singing!

Put On Your Scuba Gear – It’s Time to Discover Sound Waves (YA – Middle and High School) Three different programs are available for this series:
1. Making a String Instrument. Participants will construct a simplified version of a stringed instrument using rubber bands as strings, and will use the instruments to explore the effects of various string characteristics on frequency and amplitude.
2. Pop Bottle Symphony. Participants will explore the frequency and amplitude of standing waves in the air column, using empty glass bottles and water, if necessary, to vary air column size.
3. Building a Percussion Chime. Participants will assist in constructing a “found objects” chime, and will use the instrument to explore the effects of various object characteristics on frequency and amplitude.

Age Suitability: Pre-K through HS (see above)

Program Length: 30 to 60 minutes.

Fee: $165 per show; $275 for two shows; multiple show discounts available.

Special Requirements: Programs can be combined if you have a group of elementary students. Simple supplies are needed for middle school and high school programs – rubber bands, cardboard, pop bottles, kitchen utensils, dowel rod, string.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: Year-round.

References: Wichita Public Library.

Bob Horn, MusicianTop

240 1200 St.
Humboldt, KS 66748
(620) 473-3386
Email: rv.horn@earthlink.net

Bob Horn is a school psychologist and musician experienced in working with and performing for all age groups. He plays dulcimers, harps, tin whistles, psalteries, and many other instruments; sings; and discusses folk music. He brings a display of home-crafted instruments and explains their construction while talking about their place in history.

Age Suitability: 5 to 95 years.

Program Length: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Fee: $50 or significant honorarium, depending on distance.

Special Requirements: Performance area measuring 20 x 20 feet; 1 or 2 tables.

Travel Restrictions: Contact presenter to determine travel expenses for areas outside Southeast Kansas.

Availability: Contact at least 3 weeks prior to performance. Can perform on weekends and evenings.

Submitted by NEKLS

Bob SpearTop

16313 Springdale Rd.
Leavenworth, KS 66048
(913) 772-8253
Email: storyteller@kc.rr.com
Website: www.abookbarn.com

SEE ENTRY UNDER EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

Submitted by NEKLS

Brother John, Musician and StorytellerTop

Contact: John R. Anderson
3787 Washington St.
Kansas City, MO 64111
(816) 694-5764
Fax: (816) 531-7745
Email: rajpabrojohn@yahoo.com
Website: brotherjohnrajpa.com

Brother John’s Lots and Lots of Books Show

Through classic musical parodies, join motivational storyteller and vocalist Brother John in this interactive program that celebrates the importance of reading and one of his favorite places – the library.

Age Suitability: Ages 4-11.

Program Length: 45 minutes.

Fee: $125.

Special Requirements: Medium-sized table, an electrical outlet, a glass of water.

Travel Restrictions: Will travel up to 150 miles from Kansas City.

Availability: June 8-12, 22-26; July 14-24; August 4-7, 13, and 14.

References: Atchison Public Library; Leavenworth Public Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Cynthia Sings!Top

Contact: Cynthia Ziesman
5517 W. 50 Terrace
Roeland Park, KS 66202
(913) 362-7353
Email: cynthiaz@juno.com

Kick off your shoes and jump in with a splash as professional entertainer Cynthia Ziesman delivers a Summer Sizzler performance with pizzazz! There’ll be lots of fun-in-the-sun audience participation with singing, dancing, games, and contests. Bring your sunglasses, put on you grass skirt, and let’s move and groove, and swing and sing to a beach party beat. Join the conga line, learn the limbo, showcase you dance moves, or shine in the maraca band. Just plan on getting both feet wet!

For Teens/Tweens: Pick a theme, dress the part, and make your own party waves! Music, games, contests, and dance instruction are included in these 1-hour to 2-hour theme parties: Beach, 50′s, Halloween, Western, Disco. Schedule all year long for your teens and tweens. Fee: $175-$275 plus mileage.

Other theme shows to schedule all year long :
Patriotic Pride – March in the flag parade or be a member of the Broadway hat routine as we learn seven ways to show respect for our symbol of freedom, the flag.
Maltshop Memories – “Rock Around the Clock” with a trip back to the Fabulous Fifties.
Disney Dreams – Come dressed as your favorite Disney character and join the happiest celebration on earth.
Wild West Wranglers – Let’s go “Home on the Range” as we sing around the campfire and dance at the hoedown.
Halloween Howls – Join us at the “Monster Mash” for some happy haunting on this spooktacular day.

Age Suitability: Family members of all ages are encouraged to participate.

Program Length: 45 minutes.

Fee: $175 plus travel expenses for indoor programs. Special pricing applies for audiences larger than 200 and outdoor events.

Special Requirements: Room big enough to move in; medium-sized table; 100-200 maximum audience. Outdoors: Covered area for sound equipment; electric outlet; table; area large enough to move around.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: Year-round, daytime and evening.

References: Johnson County Libraries; KCK Public Libraries; Emporia Brown Bag Concerts; Beck-Bookman Library; Horton Public Library; Lansing Community Library; Leavenworth Public Library; Linwood Community Library; Overbrook Public Library; Tonganoxie Public Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Dennis McClanahanTop

31306 Oakland School Road
Buckner, MO 64016
(816) 650-5677
Email: djmcclanahan@aol.com

Dennis McClanahan has degrees in music education and musical performance, with over 30 years teaching experience in public schools. He is part clown, part musician, and all educator.

Kokopelli Ages 5 – 95

Kokopelli has been a sacred figure to Native Americans of the Southwest for thousands of years. Hear the legend and hear Kokopelli play an assortment of unusual flutes. He’ll teach Native American games and crafts and show his 2,000 year old flute. See how he earned his nickname, “the Trickster.” Have Kokopelli perform for your patrons and they are sure to have a productive year.

Professor McMusic Ages 5 – 95

Professor McMusic entertains and educates as he demonstrates and performs on many unusual instruments including the nose flute, saw, fruitophone, knuckleodeon, and the Japanese finger flute. The instruments are so unusual that the students won’t believe their eyes or ears! The show is a truly “hands off” experience as each student gets to play the air synthesizer – an instrument that is played without touching it. This show teaches that music and creativity are fun and includes health lessons on nutrition, hygiene and safety.

Age Suitability: All ages.

Program Length: 45 minutes.

Fee: $125.

Special Requirements: None.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: Open.

References: Johnson County Library (Oak Park branch); Lansing Community Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Dennis Warner Kids Concert Top

Contact: Tammy Anhalt or Dennis Warner
P. O. Box 365
Clearwater, MN 55320
(800) 870-1770
Email: info@WarnerSongs.com
Website: www.warnersongs.com

An energetic blend of music and humor intended for kids and others who like to have fun! Dennis has performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and has hosted his own program for National Public Radio. He’s released eight CDs while continuing to tour nationwide. One of Dennis’s songs, Beads on One String, became a children’s picture book in June 2004 and is now in its fourth printing.

Dennis Warner has performed at over a thousand public libraries nationwide. His unique show is a fast-paced, high-energy concert full of laughter and audience participation. Please visit www.WarnerSongs.com for more information.

Age Suitability: Preschool thorough 6th grade.

Program Length: 40 – 45 minutes.

Fee: $250 if block-booking with other libraries.

Special Requirements: None.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: All year.

References: Kansas public libraries in Chanute, Parsons, Independence, Oswego, Galena, and Baxter Springs.

Submitted by NEKLS

Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta Music by Katherine DinesTop

Contact: Katherine Dines
2000 Little Raven Street, #1C
Denver, CO 80202
(888) 663-7122
Fax: (303) 298-7082
Email: kdines@hunktabunkta.com
Website: www.hunktabunkta.com

Katherine Dines has captivated audiences throughout the blobe since 1992. She performs original and traditional songs and stories from 10 award-winning recordings, known as the Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta® Music series. With a lively style that’s packed with participation, she involves audiences with movement, sign language, sing-alongs, zany props, and more – to create a uniquely entertaining and educational experience.

Specific themes, words, people, and places that are relevant to each venue adds to the intimacy and impact of each performance.

Songs That Splash is a special program developed for this year’s summer reading theme.

Age Suitability: Babies; Toddlers; pre-K; K-5th; families of all ages.

Program Length: 45-60 minutes.

Fee: $900 per day (3 shows).

Special Requirements: 1 2-foot by 6-foot table; stool; extension cord.

Travel Restrictions: None. Please allow 20 minutes for set-up for each program plus travel time.

Availability: Year-round.

Submitted by NEKLS

Irish Folk Music and BlarneyTop

Contact: Tom Meehan
400 SE Moore Road
St. Joseph, MO 64504
(816) 238-6720
Email: redwrestler@hotmail.com

Tom performs Irish folk music, using ballads and “pub songs” to illustrate various themes in Irish history and culture. He can also do a short demonstration on the bodhran, an Irish hand drum used in traditional music. This program can be combined with Tom’s slideshow on Irish History and Culture. (See entry in Educational Programs.) Contact Tom to request a demo CD and references.

Age Suitability: Adaptable for elementary schoolers through senior citizens.

Program Length: 45 minutes for 1 set; 90 minutes for 2 sets.

Fee: $100 for 1 set; $150 for 2 sets – plus expenses.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: Open.

References: JCL; Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Jerry BarlowTop

Contact: Beverly Stephens
18230 W. 3rd Ave., #1
Golden, CO 80401
(303) 278-8749
Email: beverly_k_stevens@yahoo.com
Website: http://jerrybarlow.com

Jerry Barlow is an acclaimed world-class Celtic fingerstyle guitarist. In concert, he presents traditional Celtic music and relates the history and legend behind the music. He has an outstanding ability to connect with an audience and, yes, he sings a bit, too!

Jerry is an excellent choice for library audiences who are curious about both the cultural heritage of the music and the alternate tunings and tapping techniques that bring this old, old music to life.

In 2006, the title track from Jerry’s CD Bring Down the Storm was recognized as one of the most outstanding songs of the year by the international music association INDIE. Music from the CD is also included in the documentary Learn About Climate Change produced by the University of Colorado and Landlocked Films. Several selections from his first CD, Keepsake, are used in the PBS documentary Songs of Our Children. His music is played on many National Public Radio stations throughout the West and Midwest.

Age Suitability: Adult/family.

Program Length: 60 minutes or 75 minutes with a 10-15 minute intermission.

Fee: $400 to $600 depending on audience size.

Special Requirements: None.

Travel Restrictions: We try to book Jerry at several venues within a geographic area to keep travel expenses to a minimum.

Availability: Year-round.

References: Jay Johnson Library, Hays Public Library, Mt. Hope Public Library, Grant County Library, Finney County Public Library, Liberal Memorial Library, Stevens County Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Lana MareeTop

Contact: Lana Maree Pratt
307 Clayton Ct.
Lawrence, KS 66044
(785) 979-0502
Email: lpratt@sunflower.com

Lana Maree’s music will captivate you with her sweet melodies, fun lyrics, and engaging songs. She has a folksy, unique style of her own. Lana has been singing and playing for over 25 years for children and adults. Much of her music is original and geared towards younger audiences. Lana is a preschool teacher at the Lawrence Arts Center and a Youth Minister at Unity Church of Lawrence, where she is fortunate to be able to share her music on a regular basis. She is the mother of two children, and has been a homeschooling mom in the recent past. She brings with her an immense talent, a bundle full of fun, and lots of audience participation while sneaking in a bit of education to boot. Catch the singing, reading, dancing, clapping sounds of Lana’s music that will be sure to leave you smiling this summer!

Age Suitability: 3 to 12 years.

Program Length: 30 – 45 minutes.

Fee: $150/1 show; $250/2 shows; $300/3 shows, plus mileage.

Special Requirements: Electrical outlets, some chairs, a table.

Travel Restrictions: Within 100 miles of Lawrence, Kansas.

Availability: June 2nd through August 1st.

Submitted by NEKLS

Marianne Payette Carter Top

414 Minnesota
Lawrence, KS 66044
(785) 841-0817
FAX: (785) 865-5235
Email: payette@sunflower.com

Marianne Payette Carter’s music is inspired by her world travels and grounded in her Kansas roots. She believes travel inspires and informs a cultural triangulation that fosters understanding of self and world. A veteran performer and teacher, she toured with the Kansas Arts Commission and the Heartland Arts Fund programs as member and leader of the folk band Full Circle for many years. Currently, in addition to her solo musical pursuits, she leads Voyager, her Original World Music group, performs in the Celtic and Atlantic Roots Music group Rowan, and performs at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival. With funding from KU, Marianne studied the rich musical traditions of Brittany, the Celtic region of France. Her latest travels have taken her to central Mexico and Mali. She leads world music and songwriting workshops and also teaches guitar, voice, and violin at her studio in Lawrence. Visit her website for more information.

Sing That Story! Building Language Arts Skills Through Songwriting. Grades 3-6, 50 minutes.

Translating familiar stories into simple songs provides a fun and creative way to improve reading and writing skills. Children learn the basic elements of literature and music as they create original songs based on familiar stories. By identifying and paraphrasing main ideas into verse/chorus format and revising and refining original lyrics, they begin to appreciate the value and importance of creative writing. Let Marianne guide you in this exciting and powerful way to focus thought and understanding. All voices welcome!

Americana:The History Behind Our Best-Loved Folk Songs 
All Ages 45 minutes.

American folk songs have a varied and colorful history. Many have traveled far and survived for centuries to be with us today. Using such well-known tunes as Midnight Special, The Crawdad Song, and Irene Goodnight, Marianne will guide you on a tour of our rich musical heritage. Playing fiddle and guitar, and sharing little known historical facts about each song, she will soon have you singing down memory lane. These great songs will lift your spirits and get your toes a tappin’. Come join the fun!

Christmas Around the World 
All Ages 60 minutes.

Playing guitar and violin, Marianne sings a collection of holiday songs from around the world. Historical anecdotes are included and audience participation is encouraged. Selections will include a traditional Basque carol; Canada’s oldest carol (originally written in the Algonquian language in 1643); toe-tapping African-American spirituals; and carols from Austrian, England, Portugal, and West India.

See also: Marianne Payette Carter and Voyager; Rowen

Age Suitability: See individual programs.

Program Length: 50 minutes.

Fee: $300. Funding is available through the Kansas Arts Commission.

Special Requirements: PA system needed for large groups.

Travel Restrictions: None. Mileage is added for travel outside 40-mile radius of Lawrence.

Availability: Year-round, including holidays.

References: Garnett Public Library, Marysville Public Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Marianne Payette Carter & VoyagerTop

Contact: Marianne Payette Carter

414 Minnesota
Lawrence, KS 66044
(785) 841-0817
FAX: (785) 865-5235
Email: payette@sunflower.com

Music is Life: A Cultural Safari

Let Voyager guide you on an exciting and engaging musical tour of world cultures that is tailor-made for your group. Hear and help produce the exotic rhythms and instrumental styles of Brazil. Discover how a simple Irish tune traveled to Cape Breton, to Appalachia, and then on to Texas. Learn about the traditions, instruments, and polyrhythms of West Africa. Whichever Voyager safari you choose, your group will discover the cultural significance of indigenous and transplanted instruments and styles, participate in producing the rhythms and sounds of that culture, and understand how the music of every culture – including our own – reflects the daily lives of its people.

See also: Marianne Payette Carter; Rowen.

Age Suitability: Grades 3 – 12.

Program Length: 50 minutes.

Fee: Solo: $300; Group: $500 – $800.

Special Requirements: 8′ by 10′ stage area and electric outlet.

Travel Restrictions: None. Mileage is added for travel outside 40-mile radius of Lawrence.

Availability: Year-round.

References: Lawrence Public Library (Maria Butler; Kansas City Kansas Public Library (Barbara Jolley and Margaret Clark).

Submitted by NEKLS

Monty HarperTop

2419 N. Monroe
Stillwater, OK 74075
(405) 624-3805
Fax (call first): (405) 624-3805
Email: monty@montyharper.com
Podcast: www.TheProgramRoom.com
Website: www.montyharper.com

Monty Harper presents original songs that tell stories and celebrate reading and the arts. Interactive, fun, and participatory, Monty’s songs engage preschool through fifth grade kids and families. He will incorporate the 2009 theme, Be Creative @ Your Library, with songs about the arts and songs that involve the audience and tap their creativity.

Age Suitability: Preschool – 5th grade and families.

Program Length: 45 minutes.

Fee: $400 for one show, with a minimum of 3 shows in 2 consecutive days. Shows can be in different locations. Fee includes everything: performance fee, travel, and overnight lodging.

Special Requirements: One electrical outlet – that’s all! (Performer provides sound system.).

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: Any time! Monty’s current schedule is available on his website.

References: Monty has performed extensively in Oklahoma and elsewhere, including 15 libraries in Kansas. He will be guest presenter at NEKLS Summer Reading Workshop in February.

Submitted by NEKLS

Mosaic MusicMakersTop

Contact: Bonnie Hill

PO Box 22
Bonner Springs, KS 66012
(816) 797-8114
Email: hill3302@live.com
WEBSITE: www.taskstream.com/ts/hill62/BonnieHill.html (password: music)

Mosaic Music Makers

Music is an expressive art, and mosaics are collections of small and unique pieces that can be put together in a myriad of ways. In these high-energy workshops, I use books, instruments, puppets, movement, props, and visuals to help kids create a mosaic of music – creating situations where music just happens.

Age Suitability: Ages 3 to 103.

Program Length: 1 hour.

Fee: $100, plus mileage.

Special Requirements: Electrical outlet.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: May 27th through August 8th, plus occasional evening and weekends during the school year.

Submitted by NEKLS

Randy’s Music Jam for KidsTop

Contact: Randy Sauer

524 W. 3rd
Pratt, KS 67124
(785) 673-9378
Email: randy@midnightprodj.com
Website: www.elementarymusic.us

Randy’s Music Jam is a fun, high energy musical party. Randy makes it easy for audiences young and old to participate in every song the first time they hear it. Of course kids enjoy jamming with the guitars and rhythm instruments on Randy’s fun and educational songs. Randy’s Music Jam has had great success performing in in libraries and festivals throughout Kansas. Randy is an educator and has been teaching for 17 years. Randy Sauer earned his Music Education Degrees from Fort Hays State University and is active in teaching, presenting elementary music workshops, and performing for library events and festivals.

Age Suitability: Preschool – 5th Grade.

Program Length: 45 – 60 minutes.

Fee: $150 plus mileage.

Special Requirements: None.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: Year-round.

References: Hays Public Library, Hoisington Public Libary, Russell Public Library.

Rosie CutrerTop

6033 SW 38th Street
Topeka, KS 66610
(785) 271-1982
Fax: (785) 267-7182
Email: rcutrer2@cox.net
Website: www.rosiecutrer.com

SEE ENTRY UNDER STORYTELLERS

Submitted by NEKLS

Rowan: Celtic Music from the HeartlandTop

Contact: Marianne Payette Carter

414 Minnesota
Lawrence, KS 66044
(785) 841-0817
Email: payette@sunflower.com
Website: www.RowanCelticMusic.com

Rowan is a dynamic Celtic and World Music trio based in Lawrence, Kansas. Featuring an eclectic blend of styles from the various Celtic lands and beyond, Rowan’s high-powered jigs and reels intertwine with poignant ballads featuring beautiful three-part harmonies; and 17th Century English melodies contrast with traditional Eastern European sounds. In Rowan’s hands, the world of contemporary cultural expression transcends centuries and borders to blend seamlessly with the natural power and spiritual resonance of traditional Celtic music. Rowan is, in the words of John O’Regan of Folkroots magazine, “A class U.S. Celtic act with a solid grasp of traditional dynamics…and a tight powerful group sound.”

Rowan has been performing throughout the central United States for the past ten years. They have performed with numerous world-renowned Celtic artists such as “Patrick Street” and “The House Band”, and have twice been featured on the nationally-syndicated radio program “River City Folk”. They have designed a curriculum-based Celtic music program for schools, and are also available for weddings and parties. We look forward to being part of your celebration!

See also: Marianne Payette Carter; Marianne Payette Carter & Voyager.

Age Suitability: All ages.

Program Length: 30 – 90 minutes (flexible).

Fee: $500 – $800. Funding for Rowen performances is available through the Kansas Arts Commission and The Mid-America Arts Alliance.

Special Requirements: 8′ x 10′ stage area and electric outlet

Travel Restrictions: None. Mileage is added for travel outside 40-mile radius of Lawrence.

Availability: Year-round.

References: Lawrence Public Library; KCKPL; KC(MO)PL; Missouri River Regional Library.

Submitted by NEKLS

Scott KlammTop

38 NW 39th St.
Kansas City, MO 64116
(816) 453-1471
Email: slklamm@hotmail.com

Scott Klamm performs on a variety of American folk instruments including the guitar, autoharp, mountain dulcimer, mandolin, jaw harp, mouthbow, and body drumming. He won the Kansas State Championship for mountain dulcimer in 1993, was a featured presenter for the Wyandotte County Lewis & Clark events of 2004-05, and in 2008 participated in New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music, a Smithsonian traveling exhibition. He regularly works with children through an artist residency at Briarcliff Elementary (2005 to 2010) and has led both adult and children’s workshops for instrument construction and performance. Mr. Klamm’s program includes both original and traditional music, and his playing style is centered around the American-roots sounds of folk, bluegrass, blues, and zydeco. In 2008, he released a CD of original children’s songs titled Crawlin’ With Kids and, in 2009, he contributed a track to the New Orleans compilation CD Love Song to New Orleans. Sample program offerings are as follows:

For Preschoolers: Interactive children’s music program with original compositions and traditional favorites performed on a variety of instruments.

For Grade School-Aged Children: A similar program, with age-appropriate emphasis on American history, pioneer life, musical history, storytelling, and songwriting technique.

For Adults: Instrumentals and/or songs along with history and storytelling, customized to meet the needs of a specific event.

Age Suitability: Preschooler, grade school, and adult programs are all available.

Program Length: 30 – 60 minutes, as needed and age-appropriate.

Fee: $125 (solo). A 2 to 4-piece band is also available for special events. Inquire if interested.

Special Requirements: Electrical outlet for PA, if needed. Folding table or stage area to set up a variety of instruments.

Travel Restrictions: Outside KC metro area will require additional travel costs. Contact Scott for more information.

Availability: Evenings and weekends. Some daytime availability – please inquire.

References: Atchison Public Library; Kansas City Kansas Public Library, West Wyandotte branch; Johnson County Library, Oak Park branch; Olathe Public Library, main library and Indian Creek branch.

Submitted by NEKLS

Sing Along with SandyTop

Contact: Sandy Foreman
2503 S. 23 St.
Leavenworth, Kansas 66048
913-683-8418
Email: dforeman6@kc.rr.com

Sandy plays guitar and gets the children moving and singing with campfire and traditional sing-along songs and other movement activities.

Age Suitability: 3 years through kindergarten.

Program Length: 30 minutes or longer.

Fee: $75/half hour. If you need to cancel, please give at least 24-hour notice.

Special Requirements: None.

Travel Restrictions: Library pays mileage.

Availability: Year-Round.

References: New to Kansas, but has performed at libraries and day care centers in New Hampshire.

Thad BeachTop

Contact Person: Thad Beach or Theresa Beach

721 Morningside Drive
Salina, KS 67401
(785) 820-2859
Email: thadbeach@sbcglobal.net
Website: www.thadbeach.com

Flippin’, Floppin’, Splishin’, Splashin’ around Catfish County
Sing, laugh, and splash your way around Catfish County with songs, stories, and the Bait Shop Bucket Band! Musician, songwriter, storyteller, and entertainer Thad Beach reels ‘em in with his captivating, leg-pullin’ and truth-stretchin’ journey to Catfish County where audiences learn about five types of catfish through songs, stories, and poems. Experience the folklore associated with catfish and elements of the Tall Tale genre of music and storytelling as Thad showcases guitar, harmonica, jawharp, and unique homemade instruments, with lots of laughter and audience participation.

Thad provides a quality sound system, and an engaging stage set complete with backdrop, props, and visual components that make Catfish County come to life right in your library!

Age Suitability: All ages – children and families. Catfish County program versions specifically for teens and adults are also available.

Length: 45-50 minutes.

Fee: $350, plus mileage. Block booking and multiple performance discounts available.

Special Requirements: Electric outlet;10′ by 8′ performance area; 6 chairs; one small table. Set-up time about 1 hours. Take down time 30 minutes.

Travel Restrictions: None.

Availability: All year – full time performer. Other programs are available – see website.

References: Atchison Public Library; Bonner Springs City Library; Centralia Community Library; Seneca Free Library; Kansas City Kansas Public Library, West Wyandotte branch; Beck-Bookman Library; Effingham Community Library; Corning City Library; Horton Public Library; Lansing Community Library; Linwood Community Library; McLouth Public Library; Overbrook Public Library; Paola Free Library; Tonganoxie Public Library; Wetmore Public Library plus libraries in Concordia, Hays, Haysville, Wichita, Junction City, Russell, Scott City, Goddard, McCune, Meade, Galena, Erie, Manhattan, Wamego, Winfield, Noedesha, Fredonia, Goodland, Colby, Bird City, Garden City, and Liberal.

Submitted by NEKLS

Uno, Dos, Tres, Todos a CantarTop

Contact Person: Mauricio Salguero
5436 Harrison St., Apt. 2
Kansas City, MO 64110
(816) 237-9555
Email: maurosama@gmail.com
Website: http://www.mauriciomusic.net

Singer and songwriter Mauricio Salguero presents an interactive children’s program that blends early music education with learning about Latino culture. Children sing, shake and sound out rhythms while trying regional Latin dances and practicing Spanish words – an excellent enrichment opportunity for libraries, schools, day care centers, and other summer programs.

Age Suitability: Ages 3 to 7.

Program Length: 45 minutes.

Fee: $350, $500 duo with drums.

Special Requirements: An electrical outlet. One hour set-up time before program and 30 minutes tear down time afterward.

Travel Restrictions: None. Fee varies for performances outside the K.C. area.

Availability: Year-round.

References: Kansas City (Missouri Public) Library, Plaza and Ruiz branches.

Submitted by NEKLS

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