Who’s Rockin’ It In Kids’ Music?

Photo by Micah Joel

The Musical Maven Behind Moey’s Music Party, Melissa Levis, Takes Her Kidspirational Jams To The National Level

By Chrissy Makris

“Every day’s a party!” Melissa Levis, an upbeat musician accompanied by a pink sparkly guitar, greets a circle of babies and toddlers in ruffles and pigtails. Affectionately known by her following of youngsters as Moey, she encourages the eager audience to jingle their bells in time with the strumming of her guitar. And since we’re celebrating President’s Day, she leads a group of about a dozen boys and girls in a rendition of “Happy Birthday” (to the President), a floppy birthday cake hat teetering on her head.

Levis is the leading lady of Moey’s Music Party, a children’s band that sings of fairytales, responsibility, and fun with a kid-power theme. The award-winning Off-Broadway songwriter traded in her notepad for a tiara and a pink sparkly dress in 2005 when she created her lively alter-ego, Moey. The musical maven and her band have received several awards for their “kidspirational” DVDs and CDs, including a Parent’s Choice award. Today, we’re at one of her weekly classes for little ones and their caregivers. And guess what? It proves to be just as fun and stimulating as the many concerts and birthday parties the band holds around the city.

Keep reading for our interview with Melissa Levis.


Photo by Jason Arber

Dan Zanes’ Fiddler Elena Moon Park Wins Over Fams With A Delightfully Different Collection Of Asian-Inspired Kids’ Songs

By Sarah Torretta Klock

Listening to “Rabbit Days and Dumplings,” the new album by Elena Moon Park of Dan Zanes and Friends, is a delightfully strange experience: the music is foreign and deeply familiar in the same instant; wildly contemporary and ancient at once; light-hearted and heart-rending in a single melody. When I played the first song in my kitchen one morning, my three children came running to dance, and, frankly, we haven’t stopped since.

The songs are sung are in a variety of different East Asian languages: Japanese, Korean, Tibetan, Chinese, and Taiwanese to name a few. The sounds are new and exciting—a pipa, for example, is plucked by world-renowned player Wu Man. Just treat yourself to Diu Diu Deng for a taste of it. (A pipa! Who knew what gorgeous frenzy of sound could be produced from this Chinese string instrument?)

The album is a musical and cultural boundary crossing. It translates and interprets East Asian music for a contemporary Western audience in a way that is infinitely danceable, inviting, and joyous. Listening to it, I could only feel grateful to Elena Moon Park for making it, because it would have been such a shame to miss out on this music from the other side of the world.


Photo by Eric Waterman

The Pop Ups, A Brooklyn-Based Duo, Uses Playful Puppets & A Diverse Repertoire To Conquer The Kindie Scene

By Anna Sims

There’s really no precise label that adequately describes the sound of The Pop Ups, the Brooklyn-based band comprised of Jacob Stein and Jason Rabinowitz. Their song “Winter Beard” is reminiscent of New Zealand’s Flight of the Conchords, while “Connect the Stars” has a dance beat and pop melody that would work on any Top 40 playlist. They cover Frank Loesser’s “Baby It’s Cold Outside”—using two fuzzy puppets as the leads, of course—and channel a jazz vibe for their Halloween tune “Miss Elephant’s Gerald.” Really, we dare you to put one musical label on these genre jumpers (beyond the kindie one).

While it’s difficult to define their music, it’s easy to understand why they’ve garnered national attention in the kindie music scene since releasing their first album “Outside Voices” in 2010, toured with Yo Gabba Gabba!, and earned a 2013 Grammy nomination for Best Children’s Album for their sophomore CD, “Radio Jungle.”

On stage, they perform with hand-painted sets, playing guitar and percussion—that is, when they aren’t busy manipulating the colorful puppets and cardboard props that are staples of every performance. They’ve turned both of their albums into puppet musicals and like to end their shows by throwing beach balls or, in the case of their puppet musical “PASTA!,” noodles into the crowd. In a nutshell, these guys are just having fun. And it translates effortlessly to the audience. The Pop Ups write melodies that appeal to all ages and have the wit and charisma to win over any crowd.

Keep reading for our interview with The Pop Ups.

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Belle da Costa Greene: A Librarian's Legacy

<p>The Morgan Library & Museum will present a major exhibition devoted to the life and career of its inaugural director, Belle da Costa Greene (1879–1950). Widely recognized as an authority on illuminated manuscripts and deeply respected as a cultural heritage executive, Greene was one of the most prominent librarians in American history. The exhibition will trace Greene’s storied life, from her roots in a predominantly Black community in Washington, D.C., to her distinguished career at the helm of one of the world’s great research libraries. Through extraordinary objects―from medieval manuscripts and rare printed books to archival records and portraits―the exhibition will demonstrate the confidence and savvy Greene brought to her roles as librarian, scholar, curator, and cultural executive, and honor her enduring legacy.</p>

Treehouse Shakers

<div>Treehouse Shakers’ Branching OUT After-School program is for ages 12-14. This awarded program is for young people who identify as LGBTQIA+, or are seeking to become better allies. Branching OUT centers on discovering and exploring one’s story and identity through an intentionally artist-led format. During our community-based program, young people will explore and reflect on their own story to create a larger, more meaningful experience, while gaining self-empowerment and gathering with like-minded peers. Through the guidance of our awarded teaching artists, young people will create narratives that will be turned into podcasts, dances, songs or poetry. </div> <div> </div> <div>Young people have the opportunity to learn new art forms, work with professional artists, while building a meaningful community.</div>

Visit North Central Massachusetts

<p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Discover North Central Massachusetts: Everything You Love About New England, Close to Home!</strong></span></p> <p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"> </p> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Experience the charm of North Central Massachusetts, where New England’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and family-friendly activities come together. Conveniently located near Boston, Providence, and Worcester, this region offers something for everyone.</span></p> <p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"> </p> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Outdoor Adventures: Explore year-round outdoor activities with stunning trails, meadows, and rail trails. Hike to panoramic views at <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/wachusett-mountain-state-reservation/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Wachusett Mountain State Reservation</span></a> and enjoy diverse terrains at Mount Watatic, <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/leominster-state-forest/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Leominster State Forest</span></a>, and Royalston Falls.</span></p> <p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"> </p> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Music and Art: Dive into the vibrant cultural scene with world-class performances at <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/groton-hill-music/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Groton Hill Music Center</span></a> and A-list concerts at Winchendon Community Park’s Amphitheater. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/fitchburg-art-museum/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Fitchburg Art Museum’s</span></a> contemporary collection and <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/museum-of-russian-icons/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">The Icon Museum and Study Center’s</span></a> extensive Russian icon collection.</span></p> <p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"> </p> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Orchard Discoveries: Embrace the local charm of Johnny Appleseed’s birthplace. Discover fresh apples, apple cider donuts, and hot apple dumplings at renowned orchards and farms like <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/red-apple-farm/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Red Apple Farm</span></a>, <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/friends-of-sholan-farms-inc/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Sholan Farm</span></a>, <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/davis-farmland/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Davis Farmland</span></a>, <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/bolton-orchards/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Bolton Orchards</span></a> and <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/carlson-orchards-inc/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Carlson Orchards</span></a>, complete with live animal displays, hayrides, and unique gift shops.</span></p> <p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"> </p> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Family Fun: Beyond popular attractions like <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/davis-farmland/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Davis Farmland</span></a> and <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/great-wolf-lodge/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Great Wolf New England</span></a>, explore Sterling’s Mary Sawyer’s lamb legacy, enjoy yoga at <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/in-the-meadow-farm/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">In The Meadow Farm</span></a>, and experience horseback riding at <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/cornerstone-ranch/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Cornerstone Ranch</span></a> and <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/wildwood-farm-llc/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Wildwood Farm</span></a>.</span></p> <p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"> </p> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Culinary Delights: Indulge in a variety of dining options, from farm-to-table eateries to historic taverns and modern bistros. Savor local craft beers at <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/wachusett-brewing-company-inc/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Wachusett Brewery</span></a>, <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/moonhill-brewing/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Moon Hill Brewing and Gardner Ale House</span></a>, and <a href="https://www.visitnorthcentral.com/activity/thirsty-robot-brewing/"><span class="s1" style="color: #0000ff;">Thirsty Robot</span></a>, among others.</span></p> <p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"> </p> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">North Central Massachusetts offers everything for a fantastic trip, from exciting activities and cultural gems to delicious food, all in one charming spot!</span></p>