April is Jazz Appreciation Month

Did you know that April is Jazz Appreciation Month? Neither did I and I'm a Jazz singer! Well, as I did in March for National Nutrition Month, I want to highlight some Barefoot Books selections that might help you and your family develop or deepen an appreciation for Jazz music - and music in general.  Again, new blog followers will receive a 10% discount code so follow and then Click Here to begin shopping! Once you've started following I'll email you the code.

Ok, now for the Jazz! When you visit my Barefoot Books site you'll see a page link to the left "World Music" click there and you'll find some deeply exciting music. There are two full pages of Putamayo Kids cd's with music from around the world. However, there are a number of options for different types of Jazz. This is America's music - created in New Orleans, New York, Chicago, Kansas City, and throughout the deep south Jazz is inextricably linked to post-Civil War era American history. As America grew into the industrial age and beyond, Jazz has reflected the ebs and flows in American culture. Through various wars,  the Civil Rights movement, the Red scare and communism, Women's Rights, technological advancements this style continues to grow in exciting new and inventive ways everyday thanks to amazingly creative and visionary musicians and composers!  Jazz and it's derivative counterpart Blues have influenced world music for over 100 years. Introduce this living breathing piece of American history to your children today!

Jazz Playground CD

From bebop to swing to Latin and African jazz, this multicultural collection celebrates the vibrant diversity and global influence of jazz.

New Orleans Playground CD

March through the rich, musical landscape of New Orleans. The twelve lively tracks on this CD are accompanied by extensive liner notes in English, French, German and Spanish.

Swing Around the World CD

Let loose with this global dance party of swinging music. The twelve songs are accompanied by extensive liner notes in English, Spanish, German and French.

Now here are some book titles with singalong cd's to help you further instill a love of all music in your children. Visit my Barefoot Books page to see all the wonderful options!

The Farmyard Jamboree $16.99

Sing and dance along with a young boy who introduces different members of his family along with a new farmyard animal and animal baby on every page of this rollicking early learner, inspired by a Chilean folk tale. The toe-tapping story offers a playful way to practice counting skills. Book with CD editions include song sung by Bob King.

The Animal Boogie  ON SALE NOW! Only $7.49

Can you boogie? Down in the Indian jungle, the children and animals are learning about actions like leaping, stomping, shaking and flapping while meeting different jungle creatures. Book with CD editions include song sung by acclaimed children's performer Fred Penner.

If You're Happy and You Know It! $6.99

In this multicultural version of the traditional song, children from cultures all over the world clap their hands, stomp their feet, pat their heads, and much more. Book with CD edition includes song sung by Susan Reed to continue the interactive fun!

Barefoot Singalong Gift Collection $99.99

Go ahead and try — it is impossible not to sing along with these catchy, educational, and extraordinarily fun books with CDs, packaged in a beautiful, colorful canvas tote bag with a gift tag to personalize. Featuring hardcover editions of The Journey Home from Grandpa's, Port Side Pirates!, The Animal Boogie, Knick Knack Paddy Whack,Driving my Tractor, and If You're Happy and You Know It! — all with singalong CDs. 

Music is so important and a love of music is something that will follow your children through life. They can benefit immensely from an understanding of music and I would love to help you start your children on that journey. These are infectious song and story selections that will have your whole family dancing and singing along! Spend Jazz appreciation month be-bopping Barefoot style. 

Thanks for your support and appreciation of my site and the arts for all children! Have a great day. Contact me with questions, comments, to join my team, or host and event (online or in person). 

Erin