April 17, 2002
Ann Arbor artist makes music with area children
Julie Austin plays guitar, jawharp and nose flute during workshop at Pavilions
By LISA PERKINS
Herald staff writer
Keeping the attention of 15 wiggly pre-schoolers for any length of time is nearly impossible, but children's musician Julie Austin made it look easy when she visited the Intergenerational Community Center at the Grand Traverse Pavilions last week.
Austin, an award winning children's recording artist and early childhood specialist from Ann Arbor, was visiting as part of the Pavilion's month-long celebration of April - Month of the Young Child. She has been performing concerts, giving workshops, leading circle times and conducting teacher training for more than 20 years.
With songs like "Ridin' My Bike," "Won't You Be My Friend," "The Yucky Song" and the "Skunk Lullabye," Austin gets kids up on their feet, moving, grooving and singing along.
Austin plays guitar, autoharp, jawharp, recorder, African drum and - always a favorite - nose flute, to set the beat. Friends like "Alice the Alligator" and a bag full of multi-colored frogs, also do their part to keep the children's rapt attention and inspire their imagination.
"This is an excellent opportunity for our children and staff to explore their creativity, understanding and knowledge of the arts," said Sara Weatherhold, Intergenerational Community Center Coordinator.
A family concert, featuring Austin along with musician David Mosher, wrapped up the four-day on-site residency Friday evening.
Austin's visit was made possible with support from Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the Traverse Area Arts Council.
As part of their month-long celebration, the Pavilions Intergenerational Community Center is planning a community open house from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday. A variety of activities for parents and children will be featured.
For more information on Month of the Young Child activities at Grand Traverse Pavilions, call 932-3030 or visit online at www.gtpavilions.com.