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Shake, Rattle And Spoon

     Songs From The Little                       House

​Songs​ ​From The Little House is an enthralling presentation that combines music and literature. With singing, storytelling and selected readings Suzanne and Jim give voice to the ballads, tunes, and ditties from the printed words of Laura Ingalls Wilder. From the first book to the last in the "Little House on the Prairie" series, Laura's detailed descriptions of her family histories list a literal "Hit Parade" of 19th century popular songs. From these sources Suzanne and Jim have created a program filled with music and tales that convey the joys of everyday life —​the visits with friends and family; the satisfaction from a difficult task, well done; and especially the bond of shared music in the frontier community.
"Our family saw your Song from the Little       House presentation... As we are reading thru the series again as a family, we have referenced your presentation several times and the children's eyes light up with understanding!" 
​...a letter written by an audience member

Shake, Rattle And Spoon is an interactive, intergenerational presentation of music focusing on language development and musical rhythm.​
​Recent studies in the field of cognitive psychology demonstrate that numerous areas of the brain are engaged when the subjects participate in musical experiences. These areas include the part of the cerebral cortex involved with language. The simple lyrics of songs such as Polly Wolly Doodle or Hop Along Peter can lead to improvised vocalizations and word play and thus serve to expand young people's language skills. 
​​These songs have distinctive, often danceable rhythms and melodies, making them easy to learn and stimulating rhythmic activity.
​ Other studies have shown that experiencing musical rhythms can have an affect on overall motor function. And besides, these songs are just plain fun to sing!​
Shake Rattle and Spoon can become the foundation for a life-long shared family activity.

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Mores Ideas

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​Aint No Bugs on Me -
Laugh with the lazy, but fun-loving grasshopper…Learn if the wooly bear really predicts the weather…Move and grove with “Itsy Bitsy Spider”…A Delightful program of traditional songs, folk tales, and legends about the inset world. Audience involvement is encouraged and each participant receives an  Aint No Bugs on Me coloring page.

​Animal Fair
Drawing from an extensive list of song collections such as Carl Sandburg's "American Songbag", Vance Randolph's "Ozark Folk Songs" and the Lomaxes' "Folk Songs of North America", Suzanne and Jim entwine skillful instrumentation. The classic animal tales are here - the ones that captivate young minds and teach simple lessons. Sing along with familiar story songs and marvel at the old time Limberjacks- wooden puppets that will dance their way into your hearts.
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Thank you, Suzanne & Jim--you are such talented Roots/American Folk musicians and your easy way with the kids is exceptional!  What a pleasure it is to host you here at Historic White Pine Village.
Executive Director, White Pine Village, Ludington, MI