"This is a class
you won't want to miss."

Head teacher, Western Ct. Regional YMCA School Readiness Program

Library & Literacy Programs

All over the world, people have drawn upon the intimate connection between song and story to hand down cultural traditions and build bridges across cultures, long before the advent of modern technology. My performances for children reflect this close connection by blending song and spoken word. Spanish songs are a special favorite for bilingual programs.

In keeping with the ALA theme for 2009, "Get Creative at your Library", I have created a story/song presentation based on the timeless "Harold and the Purple Crayon" by Crockett Johnson. Harold, of course, is that intrepid young artist who authors his own adventures by drawing the scenes he needs with his ever-present purple crayon. Songs include Alligator Pie, Gonna Build a Mountain, Walk That Moonlit Highway and many others.

Concerts can be created around other literary themes upon request. I draw from my own extensive repertoire as well as the collective repertoire of The Children's Music Network CmnOnline.org.

Older Adults

In assisted living settings and nursing homes. Keyboard, autoharp and guitar accompany songs drawn from the 30's, 40's and 50's as well as show tunes, patriotic songs and songs about the cycle of life. Currently, I perform regularly at Ridgefield Crossings and The Village at Brookfield Common, both in western Connecticut.

Family Concerts/School Performances

When performing for families, I perform as a solo acoustic act or in concert with The Good and Plenty Kids' Band, with Kim Papa on guitar, bass and vocals and Judy Casia Koch on drums. This band was formed for a festival at The Danbury Railway Museum in 2006.

School concerts can be created around themes such as character development or Music and the Underground Railroad. "Nancy's rapport with children is immediate and obvious. Born of contagious enthusiasm for both the children and the music, it comes directly from the heart and is reciprocated at once by her young audiences." Kenny Green, founder, KlezKids; performer, bandleader, Westchester County, New York

Birthday Celebrations

What child hasn't dreamed of having a real live musician at her birthday party? Interactive singing and dancing, puppets, parachutes, drums, maraccas, stories and a personalized birthday song (such as "Five Years Old Today" from the CD) where your child gets to be the star are the order of the day. The birthday child's favorite songs are always included. A perfect segue to cake and candles!