The long awaited Activity Booklet for my book Today is Monday in Louisiana is now available to download from my website. The booklet includes story stretchers, crafts, lessons, activities and the song sheet to help extend the learning beyond the book. Download your copy today at:
http://www.johnettedowning.com/ebooks.html
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Monday, July 21, 2008
August 2008 Tour Schedule
August 2 at 12:00, Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, San Jose, CA
August 6 at 2:00, Lincoln Parish Library, Ruston, LA
August 6 at 2:00, Lincoln Parish Library, Ruston, LA
Friday, July 11, 2008
Performance Video
This video of my Planet ROCK performance at the Bourg Library in Bourg, LA on Wednesday, July 9, 2008 appeared on the Houma Courier Newspaper website. Check it out!
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1488687251/bclid958657626/bctid1657894197
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1488687251/bclid958657626/bctid1657894197
Friday, July 4, 2008
Rock On Kiddos, New Orleans Style
Here is a great review for our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD that appeared on the Opinionated Parent website:
New Orleans-based singer/songwriter Johnette Downing’s new album, Dixieland Jazz for Children, featuring Jimmy LaRocca and the Original Dixieland Jazz Band is, as far as I can tell, the very first Dixieland jazz CD for kids. If you’re a fan of Louisiana’s musical stylings, you and your kids will get a real kick out of this unique CD full of New Orleans inspired “can’t sit still” music.
Johnette Downing, dubbed “the Pied Piper for Louisiana music traditions,” has won 18 national awards for her recordings and children’s books. You can hear her passion for the art of Dixieland Jazz as she plays, and neither you or the children you spend your time with will be able to resist dancing.
Being that I have no idea what Dixieland dancing is supposed to look like, this is one time I’m very glad we don’t have a flip video camera.
Check out the site at: http://www.theopinionatedparent.com/2008/07/04/johnette-downing/
New Orleans-based singer/songwriter Johnette Downing’s new album, Dixieland Jazz for Children, featuring Jimmy LaRocca and the Original Dixieland Jazz Band is, as far as I can tell, the very first Dixieland jazz CD for kids. If you’re a fan of Louisiana’s musical stylings, you and your kids will get a real kick out of this unique CD full of New Orleans inspired “can’t sit still” music.
Johnette Downing, dubbed “the Pied Piper for Louisiana music traditions,” has won 18 national awards for her recordings and children’s books. You can hear her passion for the art of Dixieland Jazz as she plays, and neither you or the children you spend your time with will be able to resist dancing.
Being that I have no idea what Dixieland dancing is supposed to look like, this is one time I’m very glad we don’t have a flip video camera.
Check out the site at: http://www.theopinionatedparent.com/2008/07/04/johnette-downing/
Sunday, June 29, 2008
My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane - Book Signing Scheduled
Good news! Pelican Publishing Company has scheduled some book signings for my new book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane as follows:
Book Signing
Friday, September 26, 2008
7:00-9:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
Veterans Blvd
Metairie, LA
Book Signing Party
Saturday, September 27, 2008
11:00-12:30
Maple Street Children's Book Shop
7529 Maple Street
New Orleans, LA 70118
504 861-2105
Be among the first to get my new book hot off the press and personalized with an autograph.
Book Signing
Friday, September 26, 2008
7:00-9:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
Veterans Blvd
Metairie, LA
Book Signing Party
Saturday, September 27, 2008
11:00-12:30
Maple Street Children's Book Shop
7529 Maple Street
New Orleans, LA 70118
504 861-2105
Be among the first to get my new book hot off the press and personalized with an autograph.
Monday, June 23, 2008
July 2008 Tour Schedule
July 1 at 10:00 & 3:00, Ouachita Parish Library, West Monroe & Main Branch-Monroe, LA
July 2 at 10:00 & 3:00, Ouachita Parish Library, Carver Branch & Anna Meyer Branch, LA
July 3 at 10:00 & 3:00, Ouachita Parish Library, Sterlington Branch & Louise Williams Branch, LA
July 7 at 1:30, Ripples Camp, New Orleans, LA
July 8 at 10:00 & 2:00, St Mary Parish Library, Franklin & Bayou Vista, LA
July 9 at 10:00 & 2:00, Bourg & Montegut Libraries, Bourg & Montegut, LA
July 10 at 2:00, Chauvin Library, Chauvin, LA
July 14 at 9:30, Castletree Camp, New Orleans, LA
July 15 at 10:00 & 1:00, West Baton Rouge Library, Port Allen & Brusly, LA
July 16 at 10:00, Kids R Kids, Spring, TX
July 17 at 2:00, Spring Memorial Library, Houston, TX
July 17 at 7:00, Meador Branch Library, Seabrook, TX
July 18 at 10:00, Kids R Kids, Tomball, TX
July 26 at 11:00, Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito, CA
July 27, Yahoo Company Picnic, CA
July 29 at 10:15, Mountain View Library, Mountain View, CA
July 30 at 10:00, Linden Tree Children's Book Shop, Los Altos, CA
July 31 at 12:00, Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, San Jose, CA
July 2 at 10:00 & 3:00, Ouachita Parish Library, Carver Branch & Anna Meyer Branch, LA
July 3 at 10:00 & 3:00, Ouachita Parish Library, Sterlington Branch & Louise Williams Branch, LA
July 7 at 1:30, Ripples Camp, New Orleans, LA
July 8 at 10:00 & 2:00, St Mary Parish Library, Franklin & Bayou Vista, LA
July 9 at 10:00 & 2:00, Bourg & Montegut Libraries, Bourg & Montegut, LA
July 10 at 2:00, Chauvin Library, Chauvin, LA
July 14 at 9:30, Castletree Camp, New Orleans, LA
July 15 at 10:00 & 1:00, West Baton Rouge Library, Port Allen & Brusly, LA
July 16 at 10:00, Kids R Kids, Spring, TX
July 17 at 2:00, Spring Memorial Library, Houston, TX
July 17 at 7:00, Meador Branch Library, Seabrook, TX
July 18 at 10:00, Kids R Kids, Tomball, TX
July 26 at 11:00, Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito, CA
July 27, Yahoo Company Picnic, CA
July 29 at 10:15, Mountain View Library, Mountain View, CA
July 30 at 10:00, Linden Tree Children's Book Shop, Los Altos, CA
July 31 at 12:00, Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, San Jose, CA
The Children's Book Council - Hot Off the Press
My soon-to-be-released book is already making news. This review just came out in the June 17, 2008 issue of CBC Magazine, Hot Off the Press: A Sneak Peek at Publishers' Newest and Hottest Titles from the Children's Book Council.
My Aunt Came Back From Louisiane by Johnette Downing
Based on a traditional song adapted by this nationally acclaimed Louisiana singer/songwriter, this rhyming picture book tells of various Louisiana fare such as red beans, gumbo, baguettes, and alligator stew. References to these Louisiana favorites will offer children a tour of the Pelican State's diverse and unique traditions.
Grade level: K-2 ISBN: 9781589804432 Price: $15.95 Pelican Publishing
Check it out online at http://www.cbcbooks.org/cbcmagazine/hotp/
My Aunt Came Back From Louisiane by Johnette Downing
Based on a traditional song adapted by this nationally acclaimed Louisiana singer/songwriter, this rhyming picture book tells of various Louisiana fare such as red beans, gumbo, baguettes, and alligator stew. References to these Louisiana favorites will offer children a tour of the Pelican State's diverse and unique traditions.
Grade level: K-2 ISBN: 9781589804432 Price: $15.95 Pelican Publishing
Check it out online at http://www.cbcbooks.org/cbcmagazine/hotp/
Monday, May 26, 2008
New Book Coming this Fall!
I am pleased to announce that I have a new picture book coming out this Fall titled My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane published by Pelican Publishing Company. For this book, I am the author and illustrator!
This rhyming picture book offers children a tour of the Louisiana traditions of many beautiful towns and cities of the state. Based on a traditional song adapted by the award-winning Louisiana singer/songwriter Johnette Downing, the book invites children to learn the various cultural nuances of each area. Along with the whimsical song lyrics, interesting facts about Louisiana are included on the word map. Children will learn that the town of Albany was settled by Hungarians and is known for its large, sweet strawberries, and the small Florida parish town of Franklinton is famous for its delicious watermelons. In Ruston, a town in northern Louisiana, peaches are the special fare, and in Thibodaux, it is the filé gumbo. Many more interesting facts are presented in a unique, enjoyable fashion.
Check out the new book on my website at: http://johnettedowning.com/books.html
This rhyming picture book offers children a tour of the Louisiana traditions of many beautiful towns and cities of the state. Based on a traditional song adapted by the award-winning Louisiana singer/songwriter Johnette Downing, the book invites children to learn the various cultural nuances of each area. Along with the whimsical song lyrics, interesting facts about Louisiana are included on the word map. Children will learn that the town of Albany was settled by Hungarians and is known for its large, sweet strawberries, and the small Florida parish town of Franklinton is famous for its delicious watermelons. In Ruston, a town in northern Louisiana, peaches are the special fare, and in Thibodaux, it is the filé gumbo. Many more interesting facts are presented in a unique, enjoyable fashion.
Check out the new book on my website at: http://johnettedowning.com/books.html
Sizzling Summer Shows!
Things are heating up as summer begins to sizzle and I hit the road for my summer performance tour in Louisiana, Texas and California. I have created a new show for the Louisiana Summer Reading Program called Planet Rock; a galaxy of songs about the solar system and ways to care for Planet Earth. Check out the new show description at http://johnettedowning.com/music_perf.html.
In Texas and California Libraries, I will be presenting my Boogie Woogie Bugs show to harmonize with their Buggy About Books theme. This summer, you can also catch my shows at Children’s Museums, camps, bookstores and at the grand opening celebration for the Insectarium at the Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans (see schedule below). So grab your sun hats, shades and sunscreen and join me for some cool summer musical fun!
In Texas and California Libraries, I will be presenting my Boogie Woogie Bugs show to harmonize with their Buggy About Books theme. This summer, you can also catch my shows at Children’s Museums, camps, bookstores and at the grand opening celebration for the Insectarium at the Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans (see schedule below). So grab your sun hats, shades and sunscreen and join me for some cool summer musical fun!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Tour Dates - June 2008
June 4 at 10:00, West Feliciana Library, St. Francisville, LA
June 5 at 2:00, Morgan City Library, Morgan City, LA
June 6 at 1:30, Ripples Camp, New Orleans, LA
June 9 at 10:00 & 3:00, Evangeline Parish Library, Basile & Chataignier, LA
June 10 at 10:00 & 2:00, Evangeline Parish Library, Turkey Creek & Ville Platte, LA
June 11 at 10:00 & 2:00, Evangeline Parish Library, Pine Prairie & Mamou, LA
June 12 at 10:15 & 2:00, Concordia Parish Library, Vidalia & Ferriday, LA
June 13 at 10:00 & 2:00, La Salle Parish Library, Jena & Olla, LA
June 14, Insectarium Celebration, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, New Orleans, LA
June 15, Insectarium Celebration, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, New Orleans, LA
June 16 at 9:30, Castletree Camp, New Orleans, LA
June 17 at 10:00 & 2:00, St. James Parish Library, Vacherie & Lutcher, LA
June 18 at 10:00, Plaquemines Parish Library, Port Sulphur, LA
June 19 at 10:00 & 2:00, Jackson Parish Library, Jonesboro, LA
June 20 at 10:00 & 2:00, Webster Parish Library, Minden & Springhill, LA
June 24 at 10:00 & 1:30, Plaquemines Parish Library, Belle Chasse, LA
June 25 at 10:00 & 2:00, Iberville Parish Library, Plaquemines & Grosse Tete/Rosedale, LA
June 26 at 10:00 & 2:00, Iberville Parish Library, White Castle & Iberville, LA
June 27 at 10:00, Iberville Parish Library, Bayou Sorrel, LA
June 30 at 10:00 & 3:00, Ouachita Parish Library, West Ouachita & Ouachita Valley, LA
June 5 at 2:00, Morgan City Library, Morgan City, LA
June 6 at 1:30, Ripples Camp, New Orleans, LA
June 9 at 10:00 & 3:00, Evangeline Parish Library, Basile & Chataignier, LA
June 10 at 10:00 & 2:00, Evangeline Parish Library, Turkey Creek & Ville Platte, LA
June 11 at 10:00 & 2:00, Evangeline Parish Library, Pine Prairie & Mamou, LA
June 12 at 10:15 & 2:00, Concordia Parish Library, Vidalia & Ferriday, LA
June 13 at 10:00 & 2:00, La Salle Parish Library, Jena & Olla, LA
June 14, Insectarium Celebration, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, New Orleans, LA
June 15, Insectarium Celebration, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, New Orleans, LA
June 16 at 9:30, Castletree Camp, New Orleans, LA
June 17 at 10:00 & 2:00, St. James Parish Library, Vacherie & Lutcher, LA
June 18 at 10:00, Plaquemines Parish Library, Port Sulphur, LA
June 19 at 10:00 & 2:00, Jackson Parish Library, Jonesboro, LA
June 20 at 10:00 & 2:00, Webster Parish Library, Minden & Springhill, LA
June 24 at 10:00 & 1:30, Plaquemines Parish Library, Belle Chasse, LA
June 25 at 10:00 & 2:00, Iberville Parish Library, Plaquemines & Grosse Tete/Rosedale, LA
June 26 at 10:00 & 2:00, Iberville Parish Library, White Castle & Iberville, LA
June 27 at 10:00, Iberville Parish Library, Bayou Sorrel, LA
June 30 at 10:00 & 3:00, Ouachita Parish Library, West Ouachita & Ouachita Valley, LA
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Johnette on Tour in Long Island, NY
Hey Fans in New York, I am heading your way next week. I hope to see many of you at my upcoming Boogie Woogie Bug shows. Here is the schedule:
May 16 at 7:00 p.m., Islip Library, Islip, NY
May 17 at 10:30, Sayville Library, Sayville, NY
May 20 at 7:00 p.m., Amityville Public Library, Amityville, NY
May 21 at 4:30, Port Jefferson Free Library, Port Jefferson, NY
May 22 at 7:00, North Shore Library, Shoreham, NY
Can't wait!
May 16 at 7:00 p.m., Islip Library, Islip, NY
May 17 at 10:30, Sayville Library, Sayville, NY
May 20 at 7:00 p.m., Amityville Public Library, Amityville, NY
May 21 at 4:30, Port Jefferson Free Library, Port Jefferson, NY
May 22 at 7:00, North Shore Library, Shoreham, NY
Can't wait!
Topping the Charts Again in Rhode Island!
Dixieland Jazz for Children CD has topped the charts on WRIU Radio in Rhode Island again for the month of April, 2008.
WRIU Children's Show Top Songs:
"Swaying in the Trees" is listed #7 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Album:
Dixieland Jazz for Children is listed #9 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Artists:
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca's Originial Dixieland Jazz Band is listed #8 out of 20!
Check out the stats at: http://www.wriu.org/charts/kidschart.php
Thanks Rhode Island! We love ya!
WRIU Children's Show Top Songs:
"Swaying in the Trees" is listed #7 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Album:
Dixieland Jazz for Children is listed #9 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Artists:
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca's Originial Dixieland Jazz Band is listed #8 out of 20!
Check out the stats at: http://www.wriu.org/charts/kidschart.php
Thanks Rhode Island! We love ya!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Jazz Fest 2nd Weekend Writer's Picks!
Thanks Sheri McKee of Where Y'at Magazine for selecting me as one of the Writer's Picks for Jazz Fest 2nd Weekend on May 3 in the Kids Tent, 12:30 pm.
Here is the review that appeared with the pick!
Johnette Downing, Multiple award-winning New Orleans author and children’s musician,
Johnette Downing, brings her engaging brand of “Louisiana Spice” to the Kids Tent at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Downing plans to celebrate the release of her new CD, Dixieland Jazz for Children, and will be performing the last portion of her show with special guests Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band.Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca updated Dixieland jazz by fusing it with new lyrics and melodies that would appeal to kids and introduce them to the culture and music of New Orleans. Downing has said that as a child growing up in New Orleans, her parents would bring the family to the French Quarter and they would stand in the doorways of jazz clubs listening to the joyful sounds of Dixieland jazz bands. Downing brings that same musical spirit of New Orleans to life on a level that any child, or even a child at heart, can relate to and enjoy. –Sheri McKee
http://www.whereyat.net/757?PHPSESSID=1373f9da8721f7f03e14c4b69236e8a5
Here is the review that appeared with the pick!
Johnette Downing, Multiple award-winning New Orleans author and children’s musician,
Johnette Downing, brings her engaging brand of “Louisiana Spice” to the Kids Tent at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Downing plans to celebrate the release of her new CD, Dixieland Jazz for Children, and will be performing the last portion of her show with special guests Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band.Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca updated Dixieland jazz by fusing it with new lyrics and melodies that would appeal to kids and introduce them to the culture and music of New Orleans. Downing has said that as a child growing up in New Orleans, her parents would bring the family to the French Quarter and they would stand in the doorways of jazz clubs listening to the joyful sounds of Dixieland jazz bands. Downing brings that same musical spirit of New Orleans to life on a level that any child, or even a child at heart, can relate to and enjoy. –Sheri McKee
http://www.whereyat.net/757?PHPSESSID=1373f9da8721f7f03e14c4b69236e8a5
Cool Stuff We Dig - NOLA Baby
Here is another wonderful CD review for Dixieland Jazz for Children in the May/June 2008 issue of NOLA Baby in their "Cool Stuff We Dig" column.
Dixieland Jazz for Children
The latest CD by New Orleans’ award winning singer and songwriter Johnette Downing, with Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band, is the first Dixieland Jazz CD created just for kids. With titles that include Alligator Snap, Rocking Seashorse and I’ve Got Happy Feet, parents will have a blast sharing the music tradition with their children. $15.99. Available at Mignon
Children’s Shop, Garden District Books, and Maple Street Children’s Book Shop, or
www.borders.com and www.amazon.com.
Dixieland Jazz for Children
The latest CD by New Orleans’ award winning singer and songwriter Johnette Downing, with Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band, is the first Dixieland Jazz CD created just for kids. With titles that include Alligator Snap, Rocking Seashorse and I’ve Got Happy Feet, parents will have a blast sharing the music tradition with their children. $15.99. Available at Mignon
Children’s Shop, Garden District Books, and Maple Street Children’s Book Shop, or
www.borders.com and www.amazon.com.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
May 2008 Tour Schedule
May 3 at 12:30, Kids Tent, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, New Orleans Fairgrounds, New Orleans, LA
May 3 at 2:00, Book Signing, Book Tent, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, New Orleans, LA
May 4 at 2:45 & 4:45, Children's Stage, Fest for All, Downtown Baton Rouge, LA
May 5-6, Acadiana Arts Council School Tour, Lafayette, LA
May 10 at 9:30, Community Outreach Concert, St. Pauls Episcopal School, New Orleans, LA
May 16 at 7:00 p.m., Islip Library, Islip, NY
May 17 at 10:30, Sayville Library, Sayville, NY
May 20 at 7:00 p.m., Amityville Public Library, Amityville, NY
May 21 at 4:30, Port Jefferson Free Library, Port Jefferson, NY
May 22 at 7:00, North Shore Library, Shoreham, NY
May 28 at 10:30, Lafayette Public Library, Lafayette, LA
May 3 at 2:00, Book Signing, Book Tent, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, New Orleans, LA
May 4 at 2:45 & 4:45, Children's Stage, Fest for All, Downtown Baton Rouge, LA
May 5-6, Acadiana Arts Council School Tour, Lafayette, LA
May 10 at 9:30, Community Outreach Concert, St. Pauls Episcopal School, New Orleans, LA
May 16 at 7:00 p.m., Islip Library, Islip, NY
May 17 at 10:30, Sayville Library, Sayville, NY
May 20 at 7:00 p.m., Amityville Public Library, Amityville, NY
May 21 at 4:30, Port Jefferson Free Library, Port Jefferson, NY
May 22 at 7:00, North Shore Library, Shoreham, NY
May 28 at 10:30, Lafayette Public Library, Lafayette, LA
Richmond Parents Monthly Reviews Dixieland Jazz for Children
Check out this great review in the May Issue of Richmond Parents Monthly in Richmond, Virginia.
A couple of weeks ago, my family went to a birthday party on a paddleboat and the live Dixieland band on board had my children swinging and dancing throughout the party. And so, when we got home, “Dixieland Jazz for Children” by Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca went straight into the CD player.Even if you didn’t grow up in the French Quarter, you can appreciate the rich cultural heritage that Downing and LaRocca bring to their music. Downing’s voice is as smooth as roux and contrasts well with LaRocca’s Louis Armstrong-esque voice.Although the lyrics were written with children in mind (“Well, crawfish and possums and skeeters, too, pass a good time in the old bayou”) the music is more than sophisticated enough to keep an adult’s interest. Listening t this CD, you can almost taste the dirty rice and jambalaya.
Thanks for the wonderful review!
A couple of weeks ago, my family went to a birthday party on a paddleboat and the live Dixieland band on board had my children swinging and dancing throughout the party. And so, when we got home, “Dixieland Jazz for Children” by Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca went straight into the CD player.Even if you didn’t grow up in the French Quarter, you can appreciate the rich cultural heritage that Downing and LaRocca bring to their music. Downing’s voice is as smooth as roux and contrasts well with LaRocca’s Louis Armstrong-esque voice.Although the lyrics were written with children in mind (“Well, crawfish and possums and skeeters, too, pass a good time in the old bayou”) the music is more than sophisticated enough to keep an adult’s interest. Listening t this CD, you can almost taste the dirty rice and jambalaya.
Thanks for the wonderful review!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
DRS Musikwelle, Sendung vom Samstag, 26. April 2008
Dixieland Jazz for Children is being played on Swiss radio today. Here is the line up of songs being aired:
Dixieland Jazz - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
Do The Charleston - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
GRUSS VON JIMMY LAROCCA, NEW ORLEANS, AN DIE HÖRERINNEN UND HÖRER DER DRS MUSIKWELLE
Walking In The Sunshine - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
Tiger Rag - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
Dixieland Jazz - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
Do The Charleston - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
GRUSS VON JIMMY LAROCCA, NEW ORLEANS, AN DIE HÖRERINNEN UND HÖRER DER DRS MUSIKWELLE
Walking In The Sunshine - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
Tiger Rag - Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band
Dixieland Jazz for Children Wins a Parents' Choice Award
Dixieland Jazz for Children CD just won the prestigious Parents’ Choice Award! Yeah! Here is the review and link:
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca bring the history and fun of Dixieland Jazz to a younger audience. Accompanied by the Original Dixieland Band, Downing and LaRocca play predominantly original compositions in the traditional Dixieland style. LaRocca's voice is wonderfully raspy sounding, while Downing's clear bell of a voice snakes in and out of the rhythm and improvises nicely with the horn section. The CD serves to educate children about Dixieland music, it's songs, instruments and themes, which it does with aplomb. With fun original tunes such as "Alligator Snap, " "Rocking Seahorse," "I've Got Happy Feet" (a standout) and "Throw Me Something Mister," kids will enjoy the good time feeling, while learning a little something about this traditional New Orleans based music.
-Lahri Bond ©2008 Parents' Choice
http://parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=23905&StepNum=1&award=aw
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca bring the history and fun of Dixieland Jazz to a younger audience. Accompanied by the Original Dixieland Band, Downing and LaRocca play predominantly original compositions in the traditional Dixieland style. LaRocca's voice is wonderfully raspy sounding, while Downing's clear bell of a voice snakes in and out of the rhythm and improvises nicely with the horn section. The CD serves to educate children about Dixieland music, it's songs, instruments and themes, which it does with aplomb. With fun original tunes such as "Alligator Snap, " "Rocking Seahorse," "I've Got Happy Feet" (a standout) and "Throw Me Something Mister," kids will enjoy the good time feeling, while learning a little something about this traditional New Orleans based music.
-Lahri Bond ©2008 Parents' Choice
http://parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=23905&StepNum=1&award=aw
WWL TV Morning Show Appearance on April 28, 2008
On Monday, April 28, 2008 from 7:00-9:00 a.m., I will be the featured musical guest on the WWL TV Morning Show with Sally Ann Roberts and Eric Paulsen. I have invited Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band to join me and we will perform songs from our new CD Dixieland Jazz for Children as well as discuss our upcoming performance together at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on May 3, 2008 at 12:30 in the Kids Tent!
Please tune in!
Please tune in!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Happy Earth Day!
I just wanted to wish all my friends and fans a Happy Earth Day! Plant a tree, start a recycling program, sing her praises and celebrate the day by Going Green!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Midwest Book Review
This awesome review appeared in the April issue of Midwest Book Review:
"You are never too young to appreciate authentic jazz played by musicians whose skills are equaled only by their enthusiasm for America's truly indigenous music. Backed up by Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band, New Orleans singer, songwriter, and children's musician Johnette Downing has recorded nineteen original songs that set snappy, kid-friendly lyrics to the upbeat, polycultural tunes that reflect and resound with the unique and unmistakable rhythms of jazz played superbly in the Dixieland style. Superbly performed and recorded, the individual songs range from Rolling Down the River; to That Dixie Beat; to New Orleans Strut; to Tiger Rag. With a total time of 46:06, "Dixieland Jazz For Children" will make a lively and popular addition to any family, school, or community library CD music collection for children of all ages and cultural backgrounds!"
Thanks Midwest Book Review!
"You are never too young to appreciate authentic jazz played by musicians whose skills are equaled only by their enthusiasm for America's truly indigenous music. Backed up by Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band, New Orleans singer, songwriter, and children's musician Johnette Downing has recorded nineteen original songs that set snappy, kid-friendly lyrics to the upbeat, polycultural tunes that reflect and resound with the unique and unmistakable rhythms of jazz played superbly in the Dixieland style. Superbly performed and recorded, the individual songs range from Rolling Down the River; to That Dixie Beat; to New Orleans Strut; to Tiger Rag. With a total time of 46:06, "Dixieland Jazz For Children" will make a lively and popular addition to any family, school, or community library CD music collection for children of all ages and cultural backgrounds!"
Thanks Midwest Book Review!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Topping the Charts in Rhode Island!
Dixieland Jazz for Children CD has topped the charts on WRIU Radio in Rhode Island for the month of March, 2008.
WRIU Children's Show Top Songs:
"Tiger Rag" is listed #5 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Album:
Dixieland Jazz for Children is listed #8 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Artists:
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca's Originial Dixieland Jazz Band is listed #10 out of 20!
Now, that's something to sing about! Check it out at: http://wriu.org/charts/kidschart.php
Thanks WRIU Radio! You made our list of top Radio Shows for Children!
WRIU Children's Show Top Songs:
"Tiger Rag" is listed #5 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Album:
Dixieland Jazz for Children is listed #8 out of 20!
WRIU Children's Show Top Artists:
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca's Originial Dixieland Jazz Band is listed #10 out of 20!
Now, that's something to sing about! Check it out at: http://wriu.org/charts/kidschart.php
Thanks WRIU Radio! You made our list of top Radio Shows for Children!
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Johnette Downing Brings Her Energy and Family Fun to French Quarter Festival
Here is a great feature written by Maria Montoya, Staff writer, Times-Picayune April 09, 2008 in Lagniappe.
JOHNETTE DOWNING BRINGS HER ENERGY AND FAMILY FUN TO FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL
Johnette Downing will perform her most crowd-pleasing tunes at the French Quarter Festival. Also catch her at Jazzfest to hear songs from her new CD 'Dixie Land Jazz for Children.'
No one watching singer-songwriter Johnette Downing perform for children would ever guess she was a reserved, quiet child. Even Downing, who will perform on Sunday at the 25th annual French Quarter Festival, finds it incredible how far she has come.
"My parents were performers, but I was always a really shy one," said Downing, who was raised in New Orleans and Hammond. "In college, I thought if I studied theater it might bring me out of my shell, and it did. There's nothing I love more than performing for children; who wouldn't love getting to be silly and fun all day long for a living?"
A friend jump-started Downing's career after seeing her sing at the old Penny Post (now the Neutral Ground) coffeehouse, assuring her that her high energy and mellow style would make her a perfect act for children. That energy has led Downing to release her seventh children's album, "Dixie Land Jazz for Children," which paired her with Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band. Her third book, "My Aunt Came Back from Louisiana," will be released this fall. And, later this month she will make her 19th appearance at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival to debut the new songs.
In the course of 20 years of performing, Downing has won 18 national awards for her work, but she said her little fans' enthusiasm keeps her going. "It seems like everything's happened for me so organically," said Downing, who will perform twice on Sunday afternoon at the French Market Stage in Dutch Alley. "I only perform music that I love and I really love children. You can't fake that."
Throughout the year, Downing travels the country sharing Louisiana music with mostly pre-K to third-grade children. At this year's French Quarter Festival, she will perform songs from past CDs including "Wiggle Worms," "Today Is Monday in Louisiana," "Feliciana LeRoux," and "Ants in Your Pants" -- all songs she considers "top requests" no matter where she performs.
"Children are naturally drawn to music," Downing said. "Just watch them on the playground; someone's always singing or humming. If singing is your dreaming, I say sing, sing, sing!
Thanks Maria for the wonderful full-page feature in Lagniappe!
JOHNETTE DOWNING BRINGS HER ENERGY AND FAMILY FUN TO FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL
Johnette Downing will perform her most crowd-pleasing tunes at the French Quarter Festival. Also catch her at Jazzfest to hear songs from her new CD 'Dixie Land Jazz for Children.'
No one watching singer-songwriter Johnette Downing perform for children would ever guess she was a reserved, quiet child. Even Downing, who will perform on Sunday at the 25th annual French Quarter Festival, finds it incredible how far she has come.
"My parents were performers, but I was always a really shy one," said Downing, who was raised in New Orleans and Hammond. "In college, I thought if I studied theater it might bring me out of my shell, and it did. There's nothing I love more than performing for children; who wouldn't love getting to be silly and fun all day long for a living?"
A friend jump-started Downing's career after seeing her sing at the old Penny Post (now the Neutral Ground) coffeehouse, assuring her that her high energy and mellow style would make her a perfect act for children. That energy has led Downing to release her seventh children's album, "Dixie Land Jazz for Children," which paired her with Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band. Her third book, "My Aunt Came Back from Louisiana," will be released this fall. And, later this month she will make her 19th appearance at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival to debut the new songs.
In the course of 20 years of performing, Downing has won 18 national awards for her work, but she said her little fans' enthusiasm keeps her going. "It seems like everything's happened for me so organically," said Downing, who will perform twice on Sunday afternoon at the French Market Stage in Dutch Alley. "I only perform music that I love and I really love children. You can't fake that."
Throughout the year, Downing travels the country sharing Louisiana music with mostly pre-K to third-grade children. At this year's French Quarter Festival, she will perform songs from past CDs including "Wiggle Worms," "Today Is Monday in Louisiana," "Feliciana LeRoux," and "Ants in Your Pants" -- all songs she considers "top requests" no matter where she performs.
"Children are naturally drawn to music," Downing said. "Just watch them on the playground; someone's always singing or humming. If singing is your dreaming, I say sing, sing, sing!
Thanks Maria for the wonderful full-page feature in Lagniappe!
Official CD Release at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
CD RELEASE
Wiggle Worm Records celebrates the official CD release of
DIXIELAND JAZZ FOR CHILDREN
by
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band
in the Kids Tent at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on
May 3, 2008 at 12:30
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band will debut this historic CD that promises to get children jazzed about jazz. Johnette will perform solo during the first half of the show and then feature Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band during the second half of the show.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime event!
To order the CD, visit: http://johnettedowning.com/music.html
For more information, contact:
http://www.johnettedowning.com/
Wiggle Worm Records celebrates the official CD release of
DIXIELAND JAZZ FOR CHILDREN
by
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band
in the Kids Tent at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on
May 3, 2008 at 12:30
Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band will debut this historic CD that promises to get children jazzed about jazz. Johnette will perform solo during the first half of the show and then feature Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band during the second half of the show.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime event!
To order the CD, visit: http://johnettedowning.com/music.html
For more information, contact:
http://www.johnettedowning.com/
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Where Y'at Magazine Knows Where It's At!
Here is an awesome review we received for our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD from Sheri McKee of Where Y'at Magazine:
"Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRoca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band Dixieland Jazz for Children, Wiggle Worm Records/BMI. The delightful sweet sound of Johnette Downing, a favorite amongst local children, and the musical luster of Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band come together to introduce kids to the historical culture of New Orleans jazz. This delightful journey takes kids through the sounds of Bourbon Street with memories from Johnette and Jimmy, which easily introduces them to the basis of the music and the reasons it’s so important to our heritage and city. This family CD features tunes that any local can recognize and enjoy, including “Tiger Rag,” “That Dixie Beat,” “Rolling Down the River,” “New Orleans Strut,” and many more. With the release of this fabulous children’s CD during festival time, Johnette will be doing her regular performances at Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest, introducing the music of our city to young ones and the young at heart. This CD makes for a great souvenir and a must for any New Orleanian that has kids or knows someone that does." –Sheri McKee
Thanks so much Sheri; you certainly know where it's at!!!
"Johnette Downing & Jimmy LaRoca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band Dixieland Jazz for Children, Wiggle Worm Records/BMI. The delightful sweet sound of Johnette Downing, a favorite amongst local children, and the musical luster of Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band come together to introduce kids to the historical culture of New Orleans jazz. This delightful journey takes kids through the sounds of Bourbon Street with memories from Johnette and Jimmy, which easily introduces them to the basis of the music and the reasons it’s so important to our heritage and city. This family CD features tunes that any local can recognize and enjoy, including “Tiger Rag,” “That Dixie Beat,” “Rolling Down the River,” “New Orleans Strut,” and many more. With the release of this fabulous children’s CD during festival time, Johnette will be doing her regular performances at Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest, introducing the music of our city to young ones and the young at heart. This CD makes for a great souvenir and a must for any New Orleanian that has kids or knows someone that does." –Sheri McKee
Thanks so much Sheri; you certainly know where it's at!!!
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