"the queen of children's music"
–People Magazine

In a tradition we began a few seasons ago with Dan Zanes, another perfect family–friendly rock band makes their debut in Ithaca. The most notable name in children’s music has always been Laurie Berkner. She began the trend of real musicians writing for children and families alike.

She’s released many albums and was selected by NOGGIN TV (Nickelodeon's educational, commercial-free preschool sister station) to guest star in its' new original half-hour series Jack's Big Music Show. Laurie is featured in nearly every episode. Hosted by Jack, a preschooler puppet with a backyard clubhouse, the show is akin to MTV's Total Request Live, featuring videos and in-studio performances by varied artists. "The accessibility and the combination of the visual with the music is a positive way to connect with kids and their parents," says Laurie. "The kids really love it, and the parents go from thinking 'Please be something I can tolerate' to being moved by it themselves."

These days Laurie continues to be inspired by her audience. "I want to create songs that matters for children," she says. "I was singing once and saw a four-year-old girl shut her eyes and start swaying to the music. I thought, 'That's the reason I got into music.' It keeps me wanting to do more."


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