Chef Creole Book Release!

My latest book titled Chef Creole, illustrated by Deborah Ousley Kadair (Pelican Publishing Company) has been released! In this colorful and interactive storybook, children of all ages are invited to piece together Louisiana's favorite foods to create the tastiest man ever, Chef Creole. To the tune of "Aiken Drum," Chef Creole dances on the page and plays his ladle like a guitar. With arms of boudin and eyes of red beans, he encompasses all of the Pelican State's most famous flavors. Deborah Ousley Kadair's collage illustrations make it easy for children to identify the classic Louisiana fare. The book also includes a glossary of many of the featured foods and terms, from French bread to okra, and the history of the dishes such as red beans and rice.

Pick up your autographed copies of the book at a book signing on January 3, 2009 from 11:00-1:00 at the Hudson News Store in the New Orleans-Louis Armstrong International airport.

This book cooks!

Music Monthly - December 2008

Light

Light is a common theme in cultural and religious celebrations this month. Here is a traditional song about light. For more information about this song, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/This_Little_Light_of_Mine

This Little Light Of Mine

This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine

Every where I go, I'm going to let it shine....
In my neighborhood, I'm going to let it shine....
In my family, I'm going to let it shine

Music Monthly - November 2008

Instrument Families

Did you know that musical instruments are categorized by “families?” Well, they are! There are four basic families; string, woodwind, brass and percussion. Instruments are placed in these families because they share certain characteristics such as how they make their sounds, how they are made and what materials are used to make them. Let’s start with the percussion family this month. Percussion instruments are those that are struck, shaken or scraped with or without mallets. Now let’s test you percussion instrument savvy with a little game:

1. List one percussion instrument that is shaken: --------------------------
2. List one percussion instrument that is scraped: --------------------------
3. List one percussion instrument that is struck with a mallet: --------------------
4. List one percussion instrument that is struck without a mallet: -----------------

See a list of possible answers below.


1. Tambourine, maracas or bells
2. Guiro or sand blocks
3. Drum, gonog, wood block, glockenspiel or xylophone
4. Drum such as a conga or bongo, cymblas, piano or harp

Snow in South Louisiana?

It snowed in South Louisiana last week! No, this is not a misprint! It actually snowed. Of course, I was on tour in North Louisiana at the time and missed the entire four hours of snow, though I did see photographs and I had to drive in the icy and snowy conditions from North Louisiana through Mississippi to South Louisiana. The hardest part of it all was that we don't know how to drive in ice and snow, so the roads were a hazard. I arrived home safely, but all the snow was gone. Now, when everyone says, "Remember when it snowed," I can only say "not really." The silver lining to this story is that my performances in Oak Grove were so much fun and I had a great time with all the children.

Kids Music that Rocks

Thanks Kids Music that Rocks for mentioning me on your Blog! You rock!


A View From The Inside: Kids' Musicians Who Blog
By Warren Truitt(Warren Truitt)

I've always loved reading about the day-to-day lives of rockers, not necessarily how many tv sets they've thrown out various hotel windows, but normal stuff like working in the studio or playing in front of a rabid crowd.The kids' music world is building up a pretty good list of musicians who blog about their experiences, from Yosi Levin's interview-rich Indie Kids Rock, to Monty Harper's neverending pro-library tour at Monty's Children's Music Blog, from Johnette Downing's look at the business side of kids' music on her self-titled Johnette Downing blog, to Steve Dreher's musings on music and parenthood at Rockin' the Kids' Music World, to Eric Herman's reviews and interviews on Cool Tunes for Kids and his tour diary at Travelblogue.

Kids' Music that Rocks - http://kidsmusicthatrocks.blogspot.com/

5 Star Rating from TD Monthly Music Expert!

TDmonthly’s Music Expert
She’ll Tell You Which Albums Hit the Right Notes
By Anna Bendorf December 2008

If you want to know which children’s CDs may be worth carrying in your store, see what TDmonthly’s Music Expert has to say. Each month, she listens to music from various publishers and rates each album with from 1 to 5 TD (for TDmonthly!) stars — 5 is the highest rating. She was blown away by the musicianship, lyrics and creativity found in the following albums:

Dixieland Jazz for Children by WIGGLE WORM RECORDS
Age: 4 to 8
Gender: Boys and Girls
MSRP: $15.99
TDmonthly rating: ***** Five Star

My Impressions:

These musicians know Dixieland jazz style and have produced a really fun CD for kids! At the very beginning of the CD, the lead singer gives a brief story about when and where Dixieland jazz originated. In addition, they introduce each instrument on the CD, one by one, so that kids can hear the difference in the sound. As a music educator, I love how the musicians have put this one together.

Kid's Perspective:

One of the great things about this CD is that it is truly not age-specific. Many CDs on the market are targeted at a very small age group, and your child can only enjoy them for a couple years at most. At age 2, my daughter thinks this CD is really fun to dance to, but I know she will be able to continue listening to it for years to come.

My Recommendation:

As a musician and a mom, I give this CD a very high rating! The musicians are very good and this music is easy for all ages to enjoy. As a side note, my husband and I thought the last song, "Someday Your Dreams," was very pretty and even romantic.

Thanks Anna! You hit the right notes with us too!

December 2008 Tour Schedule

December 5, School Performance Tour, Westtown, PA
December 7 from 11:00-12:30, Book signing, Grand Opening, Borders Books and Music, New Orleans, LA
December 10 at 9:00 & 1:00, Fiske Theatre, Oak Grove, LA
December 11 at 9:00 & 1:00, West Carroll Parish Library, Oak Grove, LA
December 13 from 10:00-12:00, Book Signing, Rouses #14, Veterans Blvd, Metairie, LA
December 13 from 1:00-3:00, Book Signing, Rouses #33, Power Blvd, Metairie, LA
December 20 from 10:00-12:00, Book Signing, Rouses #20, Hwy 190, Covington, LA
December 20 from 1:00-3:00, Book Signing Rouses #31, Park Place Dr., Covington, LA

de Grummond Children's Literature Collection

de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg recently sent a letter saying they received 650 titles from publishers this year and My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane was a favorite among many of their visitors.

Thanks USM for the nice letter and for sharing my book with your visitors!!!

Another Catchy Book Review!

Here is another review for my book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane:


"My Aunt Came Back From Louisiane by Johnette Downing is another catchy book from the singer/songwriter."

— KATC.com, Lafayette, LA USA

Grammy Deadline

Just a friendly reminder that the deadline to vote for the first round of the 51st Grammy Awards for Best Musical Album for Children is November 5.

Wish us luck in making it to the Nomination Round!

We're getting children jazzed about Jazz with our historic Dixieland Jazz for Children recording!

Tour Schedule - November 2008

November 12 at 9:30, Gibson Library, Gibson, LA
November 14 at 11:00, Educator Workshop, NELA Family Literacy Conference, Monroe, LA
November 15 at 10:30 & 2:00, Children's Stage, Three Rivers Arts Festival, Downtown Covington, LA
November 24 at 2:45, Educator Workshop, 2008 Lutheran Teachers Conference, Atonement Lutheran School, New Orleans, LA

Music Monthly - October 2008

This month's Music Monthly is all about making musical transitions in the classroom.

Making transitions from one activity to another in school is often when children lose focus, become distracted and perhaps even get into mischief. Valuable learning time is lost each day during transition times as the educator finds himself or herself in the position of redirecting student’s attention between tasks.

Music is an excellent way to make transitions run smoothly and efficiently. I challenge you to sing, sing, sing (no matter how you think you sound). Sing everything from "Good morning, good morning, good morning to you" to "Line up, line up, everyone line up" to "Pack up, pack up, everyone pack up" to “Math time, math time, everyone it’s math time.” You can even sing “get out your math books and turn to page 10” or any number of instructions. Any melody will do. Try singing high and low, fast and slow and soft and loud depending upon the mood you wish to create or the speed with which you wish the transition to take place.

I have found that if I use the same melody for all of my transitions, the students will, upon hearing the melody, automatically make the transition as self-directed learners. You will be amazed how well children listen to singing and how quickly they will join in the song. You will transform your class during transition times.

51st Grammy Awards

We are thrilled to announce that our new CD Dixieland Jazz for Children is listed on the first round of the 51st Grammy Awards ballot. This round determines which recordings move on to the Grammy Nominee round. We are listed on this first ballot as:

Field 18 Children's
Category 77 Children's Music Album
#021 Dixieland Jazz for Children, Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band

We are deeply grateful to the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences for this wonderful honor of being selected in this first round.

Wish us luck in moving on to the Nominee round!!!

CityBusiness 2008 Women of the Year

CityBusiness announces 2008 Women of the Year honorees

NEW ORLEANS — CityBusiness has announced its Women of the Year Class of 2008.
The 10th annual event honors 50 women whose success in business and contributions to the community set the pace in our region. This year’s honorees are innovative leaders with energy, ideas, achievements and a commitment to excellence.

Honorees will be recognized at a noon luncheon Nov. 21 at the Sheraton hotel on Canal Street where an overall Woman of the Year will be announced. A Women of the Year insert spotlighting all honorees will run in the Nov. 24 issue of CityBusiness.


The 2008 honorees:

- Jackie Alexander
- Heather Alleman
- Sandra Andrieu
- Therese Badon
- Jesyka Bartlett
- Lauren Baum
- Penny Baumer
- Dottie Belletto
- C. Lynn Besch
- Julia Bland
- Kim Boyle
- Cindy Brennan
- Christine Briede
- Debbie Brockley
- Nancy Cassagne
- Jackie Clarkson
- Michelle Craig
- Bernie Cullen
- Beth Dannewald
- Nancy Scott Degan
- Dell Dempsey
- Johnette Downing
- Patti Ellish
- Cathi Fontenot
- Lisa Futrell
- Jocelyn Greely
- Samantha Griffin
- Jayne Gurtler
- Kristine Hatfield
- Donna Klein
- Priscilla Lawrence
- Deborah Lea
- Nancy Marshall
- Anne Milling
- Cheryl Mintz
- Beverly Nichols
- Michelle Nugent
- Beth Payton
- Tara Richard
- Jade Russell
- Elizabeth Scheer
- Rachael Schorr
- Laura Held
- Stacy Seamon
- Pamela Senatore
- Kristin Shannon
- Jessica Soileau
- Carol Solomon
- Charlee Williamson
- Rachel Wisdom
- Ellen Zakris•

Read A Song of Louisiane

Here is a great review written by Marigny Dupuy in The Times Picayune for my new book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane.

Books to Grow On

Read a song of Louisiane
Johnette Downing's latest book focuses on the state's food and music
The Times Picayune
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
By Marigny Dupuy

Johnette Downing is a powerhouse in the world of Louisiana children's music -- she's a singer, songwriter, performer, traveling educator, writer and illustrator, and a Louisiana native. Author of three books for children (with another coming in the spring), all related to songs, and creator of seven CDs (several of them award-winning), Downing also travels extensively throughout Louisiana, the United States and internationally (she is scheduled to perform in Dubai in March 2009), spreading the word about all-things-Louisiana through a variety of programs and workshops. Music -- specifically Louisiana music -- defines everything that Downing does.

The appealing text in her latest book for young children, 'My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane,' written and illustrated by Downing (Pelican Publishing Company, $15.95, ages 3-7), is an adaptation of a traditional song, as were the words in her two successful previous books, "Monday is Red Beans in Louisiana" and "Down in Louisiana." Focused on the food and music of our state, the gently rhyming text leads the reader from well-known places such as New Orleans and Lafayette to lesser-known spots in Louisiana such as Mamou, Albany and Ruston, gathering delicious food and musical instruments along the way. Downing's colorful collage illustrations add to the playful spirit of the text.

Music to accompany the adapted lyrics appears at the back of the book, along with a glossary with helpful pronunciation guides and additional information about the Louisiana cities and towns in the text. Anyone who has heard Downing's sweet, clear voice singing to a zydeco beat will long to hear her perform this new song.


Thanks Marigny! You're a powerhouse book reviewer!

October 2008 Tour Schedule

October 3 at 9:00 & 1:00, Educator Workshops, SPALS Conference, Cajun Dome, Lafayette, LA
October 4 at 11:00, Book Signing, Pelican Publishing Booth, Louisiana Book Festival, State Library, Baton Rouge, LA
October 4 at 12:30, Storytelling Tent, Louisiana Book Festival, State Library, Baton Rouge, LA
October 4 at 1:45, Book Talk, Louisiana Book Festival, State Library, Baton Rouge, LA
October 4 at 2:45, Book Signing, Louisiana Book Festival, State Library, Baton Rouge, LA
October 5 at 1:00, Sugar Fest, West Baton Rouge Museum, Port Allen, LA
October 10 at 5:00 p.m., Kids Alive, Festivals Acadian, Downtown Lafayette, LA
October 12 from 3:00-5:00, Book Signing, Country Day School Book Fair, Metairie, LA
October 16 at 2:00 & 4:00, Washington Parish Fair, Franklinton, LA
October 17 at 6:00 p.m., Kent House Halloween Concert, Alexandria, LA
October 18 from 9:00-12:00, Educator Workshop, Rapides Parish Library, Alexandria, LA
October 19 at 1:30 & 3:00, Trolley Tales, Lafayette Public Library, Lafayette, LA
October 24, Boo at the Zoo, Audubon Zoo, New Orleans, LA
October 25 at 10:00, Monster Mash, Bogue Falaya Park, Covington, LA
October 25, Boo at the Zoo, Audubon Zoo, New Orleans, LA
October 26 at 9:30, Buddy Walk Concert, Zephyr Stadium, Metairie, LA
October 27-28, Red Ribbon Week Concerts, St. Francisville, LA

Downing Combines Music and Writing in Winning Way

Here is a great review for my latest book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane:


Downing combines music and writing in winning way

By JUDY BERGERON
News Features staff writer
The Advocate, Baton Rouge, LA
Published: Sep 21, 2008 - UPDATED: 12:05 a.m.


Johnette Downing’s children’s books come from her music for children, which in turn comes from her love of Louisiana, its music and its children. As a singer, songwriter, musician and author, Downing says she puts a little Louisiana spice in everything she creates, her latest project the children’s book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane.

The book takes its title and inspiration from the song, “My Aunt Came Back,” often heard around Girl Scout campfires. In the traditional version, the aunt travels around the world, bringing back gifts from exotic countries. Downing has narrowed the scope of her adaptation to Louisiana’s boundaries.

“I thought this would be a good geography book for our children in Louisiana and I’m sort of like the aunt in the book because I bring my nieces and nephews back things from all over Louisiana,” Downing said.

Written in simple rhyming verse, the aunt travels to different Louisiana towns and cities, always bringing back a sample of something the area is noted for: red beans from New Orleans, file gumbo from Thibodaux, crawfish stew from ’ti Mamou. Young children can easily read or sing along, learning little tidbits as they go. At the back of the book is a word map, giving pronunciations for some of the more difficult towns mentioned, with explanations for the foods, or in a few cases, musical instruments they’re associated with. The sheet music for the adapted song follows.

In synch with the simplicity of the text are the illustrations, which Downing created herself. Deborah Kadair had illustrated Downing’s first two children’s books, Today is Monday in Louisiana and Down in Louisiana, but encouraged her colleague to try this one on her own. “This is my normal format, collage. It’s childlike, children can relate to it. It’s cut foam and construction paper, which gives it that soft quality,” Downing said. The brightly-hued illustrations clearly identify the subjects, without bogging down the young readers with a lot of intricate detail.

Downing, who lives in Uptown New Orleans, has been catering to a young audience for years, since leaving a folk band to devote herself full-time to Louisiana music for children.
“It’s been such a wonderful thing. My whole career has been organic,” she said, adding that a friend encouraged her career change, saying she would be good with kids. First performing her songs around Louisiana, she soon went national, and eventually, landed an appearance in Puerto Rico.

Someone from Costa Rica saw the show and booked her for an event there. Then it was on to Guatemala and Egypt. In all, she’s now performed in 11 countries. “That is the great thing about Louisiana music. People all over the world know about our music and our culture and when I travel to other countries they want me to do my Louisiana music for children and they want me to bring my instruments that are from Louisiana and I bring all my books and they just love Louisiana culture. And it’s so nice because that’s who I am, you know, that’s what I do.”
Downing said her music is inspired by Dixieland jazz, jazz, Cajun, Creole and zydeco music. Her parents were both musicians and singers at their church, and Downing said she grew up performing. Downing dedicated her new book to her mother, who died last year.

“In memory of my mother, who always had a song in her heart and a child on her knee,” the dedication reads.

Like mother, like daughter, it seems.

Music Monthly - September 2008

I offer a music activity each month in my email newsletter that goes out to 5000 fans and friends. I have had such positive feedback from educators and parents on the email newsletter list who say they use the activity each month with the children in their care. Therefore, I am going to offer the Music Monthly activity each month here on my Blog as well. Feel free to use the activity with the children in your care and give proper usage credit. Thanks and enjoy!

Roll Call
by Johnette Downing
Copyright 2008 Johnette Downing

Let’s add a little music to roll call in school or at home by singing the names of children in your care. An easy way to do this is by using the tones in do, ra, mi, fa, so, la, ti, do. For two syllable names, I use “so-ra” for the syllable tones. For three syllable names, I use “so-ra-do.” Play around with tones to see which ones you like.

If you are musically inclined, play the notes on an instrument while you sing roll call. For a greater challenge, assign each child their own name tone and use it throughout the school year. You just might be amazed to see how quickly the children learn the name tones and sing each other’s name as well.

Have a musical month!

To join my monthly email newsletter list, click here:

http://johnettedowning.com/newsletter.html

CHEF CREOLE - New Book Coming this Spring!

Illustrator Deborah Kadair and I have teamed up for another picture book titled

Chef Creole.

This book is my adapted version of the beloved traditional song “Aiken Drum.” Following the familiar repetitive pattern of the song, his hair is made of rice, rice, rice; his eyes are made of red beans, red beans, red beans; and his mouth is made of a praline, praline, praline. With a King Cake body and beignet feet, this Louisiana Chef is good enough to eat! Published by Pelican Publishing, this book is slated for a spring 2009 release.

Check out the book cover on my Store page today!

My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane book RELEASED!

My new book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane (Pelican Publishing Company) has just been released and is available on my website at:

http://www.johnettedowning.com/store.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.


Get your autographed copy hot off the press today!

Hurricane Gustav

I made it home safely after five days near Alexandria (yes, I evacuated to where the eye of the storm and the worst weather passed). I was trapped by flood waters with no electricity, Internet or phone service at my friend's lovely house and we could not leave. As an evacuee, I volunteered helping my sister at an evacuee animal shelter in Alexandria the day before the storm. The best part of the evacuation experience was that I was with my sister Robbie, my dear friend Rose Anne and Rose Anne's gracious and welcoming family.

My house, my dog Emma and I are fine. Thanks for all the thoughts, prayers, text messages, calls and emails. My thoughts and prayers are with my fellow Gulf Coast citizens who are still evacuated, sustained property damage and are still without electricity. Many blessings for a speedy, safe return.

September 2008 Tour Schedule

September 26 from 7:00-9:00 p.m., Book Signing, Barnes & Noble, Veterans Blvd., Metairie, LA
September 27 from 11:00-12:30, Book Signing, Maple Street Children's Book Shop, New Orleans, LA

Publishers Weekly

My new book My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane received a brief mention in the July 21, 2008 Fall Children's Listings issue of Publishers Weekly (page 90).

"My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane ($15.95) by Johnette Downing adapts and illustrates a traditional song. (5-8)"

Summer Tour is Over. Back to School Begins!

My summer tour in Louisiana, Texas, New York and California is over and I was able to take a lovely vacation with friends in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Now I am gearing up for school performances as students and educators head back to school.

My booking calendar for the 2008-2009 school year is beginning to fill up, so contact me early to book a performance at your school! I have some new show offerings this school year:

Planet ROCK!
A galaxy of rockin’, hip-hoppin’ songs about the solar system. Learn about the sun, planets, gravity, Saturn’s rings, and simple ways we can care for Planet Earth.
Theme: Solar System and Caring for the Earth

Clean and Green
Go green! Join Johnette's "Green Team" and get in step with reducing your carbon footprint on the Earth with songs about environmental conservation and preservation. Like Johnette's song says, "Clean and green is a natural thing, think globally if you know what I mean. "
Theme: Environment

I am also developing a new program about self-esteem and character building titled, "I Believe in Me." More details will follow.

Check out my other program offerings on my website at: http://johnettedowning.com/

Booking a show is easy by using the convenient online booking request form at: http://johnettedowning.com/booking.html

See you in school!

School Library Journal Review

My latest CD Dixieland Jazz for Children with the Original Dixieland Jazz Band received a rave review in the July 2008 issue of School Library Journal:

“New Orleans natives Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca have teamed up to acquaint youngsters with Dixieland Jazz in this collection of 18 original tunes and one classic piece. The opening number, “Dixieland Jazz,” presents the sounds of each instrument in the combo. “That Dixie Beat” explains that type of jazz music. The lyrics of many songs make them useful for story times. “Do the Charleston,” “Alligator Snap,” and “Dance and Sing” are fun for dance/movement activities. “Busy Beeline” is a peppy tune about bees, and “Swaying with the Trees” is a laid-back song that could be used for dancing with scarves. “Someday Your Dreams,” a bluesy Big Band-sounding ballad, closes the recording.

Jimmy LaRocca’s Original Dixieland Jazz Band, a New Orleans staple, is highlighted throughout the CD. LaRocca sings lead on a few numbers with a voice that channels Louis Armstrong in its timbre and tone. Downing sings lead on most songs, and her pleasant voice and predictable style is more akin to Doris Day than a soulful Ella Fitzgerald. Curiously, she chooses to pronounce the city as “New Orleenz” in several tunes, rather than the local pronunciation “New Or-luns” (which she does use once in “New Orleans Strut). Downing and LaRocca have assembled a toe-tapping collection of Dixieland jazz to introduce youngsters to this niche music.”

–Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

Today Is Monday in Louisiana Activity Booklet

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

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

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

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/

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.

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

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/

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

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!

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

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!

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!

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

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.

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

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!

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 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

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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/

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!!!

Bookwatch Gives Dixieland Jazz For Children a Superb Review!

The Midwest Book Review gives Dixieland Jazz for Children a "Superb" review in the April 2008 issue of "BookWatch" for The Music Shelf column. Check it out!

"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 superb too!

The Blues

You have to hear this one! Today I performed in a school in Bush, LA. Before the show, I was speaking with some teachers as they were seating their students in the auditorium. One teacher asked me, "One of my Pre-K students wants to know if you are going to play some Rock N Roll?" I smiled, turned to the young boy and asked, "So you like Rock N Roll?" He smiled, strummed the air guitar for a few seconds and said, "Yes." I then asked him, "Do you like the Blues?" He said, "No, I like the reds."

You can't get any better than that.

A to Z Kids Stuff Reviews Dixieland Jazz For Children CD

Here is a nice review we received from A to Z Kids Stuff this week for our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD:

"Original music written for children with Louisiana spice. An upbeat collection of music and dances, such as the Charleston that is fun for all ages. It will have you bouncing and dancing. A wonderful introduction to the sounds of Dixieland Jazz."

http://www.atozkidsstuff.com/cmcd.html

Thanks for the upbeat review A to Z Kids Stuff!

WRIU Children's Show Plays Tiger Rag

Bill Parker from The WRIU Children's Show in Rhode Island played "Tiger Rag" from our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD on March 2, 2008 from 5:00-8:00 pm.

Hold that tiger! Hold that tiger! Play that Tiger Rag! Thanks Bill!

Out With Kids Tournament

Jeff Bogle is hosting a kids’ music “tournament” on his site
http://outwiththekids.blogspot.com/2008/03/owtk-ncaa-kids-music-tournament_20.htm, and Dixieland Jazz for Children is included in the “Singin’ in the Rain Region.” Go to the site and vote for my CD, but hurry because the deadline is tonight!

In this tournament, Jeff will review each album and feature a song from each artist. Here is the Dixieland Jazz for Children review:

"Johnette Downing's music, while new to me, is certainly not new to the global kid's music industry. Rarely do you see someone bring to the table more awards, reviews and accolades than Ms. Downing does. Her new release sees her teaming up with Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band (established 1916!) to produce an ode to Dixieland Jazz featuring original tunes and lyrics written especially for children. The disc is meant to serve as a child's introduction to the musical traditions and dances, like the Charleston, of jazz - Dixieland style. With a song about the Charleston, it is fitting that this disc would be in the Singin' in the Rain region. The Bear loves this track (link to listen below) and dancing the Charleston around the house. While this record is tailored for kids, "Dixieland Jazz for Children" is truly an authentic jazz record with an upbeat, happy spirit that will surely have any toddler or older child strutting around the house. A really fun collection of tunes!”

Radio 8 Jazz House - Germany

Walter Henne of Radio 8 in Germany sent us a nice note informing us that he will feature our new CD Dixieland Jazz for Children on Radio 8 Jazz House at 8:00 CET on March 30, 2008. He sent us the transcript for the show and, if you live in Germany, you won't want to miss it. Mr. Henne plays every song on the CD as well as some other great jazz tunes.

Thanks Walter for featuring our CD and for all the kind words you said about our music on your show!

Author Visits by State

Hey book lovers! My publisher, Pelican Publishing, just told me about a great website. It is Author Visits by State, a state-by-state listing of children's book authors and illustrators who do school visits. Check my listings and dozens of other author listings at:

http://www.authorvisitsbystate.com/

Thanks Kim at Author Visits by State for a great resource and for including me on your list!

April 2008 Tour Dates

April 1-4, Performance and Workshop Tour Continued, San Jose, Costa Rica
April 5 at 10:15, 12:15 & 2:15, Storytime Storytelling Festival, Louisiana Arts and Science Museum, Baton Rouge, LA
April 13 at 12:15 & 3:45, French Quarter Festival, Dutch Alley Stage, New Orleans, LA
April 15-18, School Residency Program, Metairie, LA
April 19 at 10:15, Kids Jazz Fest, Louisiana Children's Museum, New Orleans, LA

Mighty Moose Radio

Paul from Mighty Moose Radio in Cranberry Bog, MA, United States sends a note that he is playing "Rocking Seahorse" and "I've Got Happy Feet" from our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD. Check it out at www.mightyradio.com

Thanks Paul; we are "mighty" happy you like our tunes!

Offbeat Magazine

Our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD is listed on the Offbeat Magazine website as a New and Upcoming Louisiana CD release for March 1, 2008. Check it out at:

http://offbeat.com/artman/publish/printer_2352.shtml

Thanks Offbeat for the upbeat listing!

We Like Kids! Playlist - March 9, 2008

Jeff Brown, the Co-Program Director for KTOO-FM/KRNN-FM in Juneau, Alaska played "I've Got Happy Feet" from our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD on his We Like Kids! radio show on March 9, 2008 to celebrate Women's History Month.

Thanks Jeff! We like YOU too!

Singing Praises!

Here is a nice letter I received from Laurie Peck, the Children's Librarian at the Mountain View Public Library in Mountain View, CA:

"Thank you so much for an outstanding show! Your material, timing and sense of humor were perfect for the preschool and young school age audience - and the adults loved you as well! Your voice is lovely, clear and pitched just right for the little ones to sing along. And we loved to dance with you! We will recommend you highly!!!"

Thanks Laurie for the high praise! I'll see you all again on July 29, 2008 at 10:15 a.m.!

Gooney Bird Kids, March 4 Podcast

Gooney Bird Kids played "Walking in the Sunshine” from our Dixieland Jazz for Children CD on their March 4, 2008 Podcast.

Thanks Gooney Bird Kids for spreading the sunshine!

KUNM-FM Radio Leaps Into Johnette's Music

KUNM-FM radio in Albuquerque, New Mexico played "Leap Frog Croaky” from my Wild & Woolly Wiggle Songs CD and “Amphibians” from my Fins and Grins CD on their The Children’s Hour radio show on March 1, 2008.

Thanks KUNM-FM for leaping into my music!

WHOV-FM Plays Tracks from Dixieland Jazz for Children CD

Tracks from Dixieland Jazz for Children will be played on the new program titled Young World Radio on WHOV-FM (VA), a Hampton Roads area radio station that serves Virginia Beach, Hampton, Norfolk, and Chesapeake.

Thanks WHOV-FM for jazzing it up with our music in VA!

TD Monthly Features Dixieland Jazz for Children CD

Dixieland Jazz for Children CD is now being featured in TD Monthly, an online trade publication for the toy industry. Here is the review:

"Multi-award-winning New Orleans singer/songwriter and children’s musician Johnette Downing, staying true to her Louisiana roots, joins forces with Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band on "Dixieland Jazz for Children." The recording gives Johnette the opportunity to share with children all over the world music that provided the soundscape for her own childhood. "Johnette Downing brings the spicy flavors of her home state to all her recordings," Elizabeth Waldman Frazier of Waldmania PR told TDmonthly. "It was Johnette’s idea to update Dixieland jazz, fusing it with her own lyrics and new melodies." Launch date: May 6, 2008."

Thanks TD Monthly for grooving with our music!

Kids Music That Rocks Reviews Dixieland Jazz for Children CD

Here is a short review for my Dixieland Jazz for Children CD that appeared on the Kids Music That Rocks Blog.

"An innocuous introduction to Dixieland music. Johnette keeps the lyrics as simple as possible, and gets musical help from veteran Jimmy LaRocca."

Thanks Kids Music that Rocks for the innocuous review. Yeah!

We Care New Orleans

Founded by Johnette Downing, We Care New Orleans is an informal group of children's musicians from North America joined together to help day care centers in the Metro New Orleans area rebuild their media collections after Hurricane Katrina. The group adopted five day care centers as well as the New Orleans Recovery School District and sent boxes of CDs, cassettes, books, toys, musical instruments, videos, art supplies and other items as donations. Each box included a note from the children's musician donor to the children for whom the items were intended. The note was a way of letting children in New Orleans know that real people across the continent care. For more information about We Care New Orleans, join our Yahoo Group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wecareneworleans/

One donation we received had special meaning because it involved children helping other children. It was a box of hand-painted frogs from Feel the Music, The National Foundation for Music and Healing. Fifty percussion frogs were hand-painted by children who lost a parent on 9/11. The frogs symbolized how healing leaps from one community to another; from children of one disaster to children of another disaster. For more information about Feel the Music, check out: http://musicandhealing.org/

March/April Tour in Costa Rica

This month I head out for another great adventure in Costa Rica; my third performance tour there. From March 23 through April 4, 2008, I will be touring in San Carlos, Upala, Canas, Liberia, Heredia, Puntarenas, Nicoya, Turrialba and Santa Cruz, Costa Rica. I can’t wait to see all my old friends and look forward to meeting many new friends as well.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

Here is a great little hand clapping chant I learned from students in the United Arab Emirates in Ras Al-Khaimah.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

Chicka chicka boom boom
Chicka chicka boom boom
Chicka boom
Chicka boom
Chicka chicka boom boom

The hand movements go like this:

Fist, fist, palm, palm
Fist, fist, palm, palm
Fist palm
Fist palm
Fist, fist, palm, palm

Hamburger Lokalradio, Switzerland

Four tracks from my Dixieland Jazz for Children CD will be played on "Hamburger Lokalradio in Switzerland on March 16, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The tracks are Introduction, Dixieland Jazz, Alligator Snap and Rocking Seahorse.

If you live in Switzerland, please tune in!

Thanks Hamburger Lokalradio for digging our tunes!

Gooney Bird Kids

I was a “highlighted artist” on the February 19 podcast of Gooney Bird Kids and my “Stingray Shuffle” song from my FINS AND GRINS CD was played.

Thanks Gooney Bird Kids for shuffling along with my tune!

WBRS-FM Plays "I Want to be a Frog Today"

My song “I Want to be a Frog Today” on my FINS AND GRINS CD was played on Saturday Morning Cartoons on February 9, 2008 on the Waltham radio station WBRS-FM in MA.

Thanks WBRS-FM for playing my tune!

Downing Releases Jazz for Children CD

Louisiana children's author and musician Johnette Downing has just released a new CD titled Dixieland Jazz for Children that's available locally but will hit stores nationwide in May. "It is the first Dixieland jazz CD for children which is kind of cool since the band I collaborated with recorded the first ever jazz recording in 1917; sort of like history repeating itself," Downing wrote me by e-mail. Downing collaborated with Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band for 19 original songs. To listen to sound clips from the CD, visit Downing's Web site at: http://johnette downing.com/store.html.

-Chere Coen, TheDaily Advertiser, Lafayette, LA, February 3, 2008

Thanks Chere for including our CD in your column!

March 2008 Tour Dates

March 16 at 4:45-6:15, Educator Workshop, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development Conference, New Orleans, LA
March 23-31, Performance and Workshop Tour, San Jose, Costa Rica

Shokran (Thanks) Bahrain and UAE!

After 32 hours in planes and airports, I arrived home on Saturday from my two week tour in the Middle East. My schedule was booked solid with performances and workshops in three countries; Kuwait, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi, where I was met with warm welcomes and generous hospitality. Smiles and giggles were abundant as teachers and students learned some unusual food names from Louisiana, and even more giggles ensued when I attempted to pronounce Middle Eastern food names like balaleet, machboose, briyani and sammoosa. No matter how you pronounce them, these foods tasted delicious!

I did manage to find a few moments to be a tourist. I walked on the beach of the Arab (Persian) Gulf, shopped in souks in downtown Manama, Bahrain with my friend Fatema, saw camels roaming the desert and goats climbing rugged mountain terrain in Fujairah, UAE, saw a ski slope in a mall in Dubai, drove through two sand storms and shared meals with many new friends in the region.

The trip was quite memorable and enjoyable and I have been asked to return for another tour in March 2009. Shokran (thanks) to all of my hosts as well as all the educators and children who attended my workshops and performances. I hope to see you all next year!

Kuwait Was Great!

My brief three day tour in Kuwait was great! I performed concerts for Kindergarteners in an American Academy. The children and teachers were delightful and really enjoyed participating in my silly songs at "turbo" speed. I also conducted workshops for high school students, and workshops for educators at the American University of Kuwait. The teachers were enthusiastic and eager to use the activities in my workshop with their students. Did I mention the food was delicious? I even made the ArabTimes news! I want to thank my hosts for making my trip to Kuwait memorable and enjoyable. I hope to see you all again soon.

Mardi Gras Maracas

Here is a fun craft for making music this Mardi Gras!

MARDI GRAS MARACAS by Johnette Downing
Copyright 2005 Johnette Downing

Materials:

Dry, empty and cleaned plastic water bottle with lid
Mardi Gras beads

Instructions:

1. Place three or four Mardi Gras beads in an empty and clean plastic water bottle.
2. Screw bottle lid securely on bottle.
3. Shake!

Middle East Tour

I am gearing up for my upcoming tour in the Middle East from February 8-22, 2008. I will be performing concerts and workshops in Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirants. I am looking forward to the sharing of cultures through music with children, parents and educators.

Dixieland Jazz for Children CD Available in Stores

The Dixieland Jazz for Children CD is now available online and in stores at:

Maple Street Children's Book Shop, New Orleans, LA
Garden District Books, New Orleans, LA
Mignon Children's Shop, New Orleans, LA
Linden Tree Children's Books, Los Altos, CA
www.Amazon.com
www.CDbaby.com
www.johnettedowning.com

Bay Area Tour a Big Success!

I have just returned from my tour of the San Francisco Bay area. I had performances in schools and libraries in Millbrae, Santa Clara, Petaluma, Foster City and Los Altos. I had a great time singing and dancing with children and their parents and educators.

I also had a chance to visit Monterey, Carmel and Point Lobos as a tourist with my friend and fellow musician. The vistas were stunning. The Monterey Aquarium was amazing as well. I was so inspired by the living kelp forest in the Aquarium that I wrote a song and several poems about it. Here is one of the poems I wrote:

kelp forest
the ocean
breathing

Immediately after my performances, I was booked for another tour in the Bay Area in July, 2008. So, I'll be seeing my Bay Area fans again real soon!

Mardi Gras Music for Children

Just in time for Mardi Gras, Johnette Downing and Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band release a new CD titled Dixieland Jazz for Children. A truly authentic New Orleans sound, the album contains two Mardi Gras songs for children titled "It's Time for Mardi Gras" and "Throw Me Something Mister." Celebrate carnival New Orleans style today, on Mardi Gras day which is February 5, 2008, and everyday!

Check out the CD at

http://johnettedowning.com/music.html

February 2008 Tour Dates

February 2 at 11:00, Mardi Gras Madness, The Mall at Cortana, Baton Rouge, LA
February 9-11, Performance and Workshop Tour, Kuwait
February 12-15, Performance and Workshop Tour, Bahrain
February 16-22, Performance and Workshop Tour, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
February 26, School Show, New Orleans, LA

Dixieland Jazz for Children - New CD

Four years in the making and staying true to my Louisiana musical roots, I have collaborated with Jimmy LaRocca's Original Dixieland Jazz Band to record a new CD titled DIXIELAND JAZZ FOR CHILDREN to introduce children of all ages around the world to the joyful sounds of Dixieland Jazz; the music I heard growing up as a child in New Orleans. Nineteen original songs blend the upbeat, happy sounds of Dixieland Jazz with lyrics for children and their extended families. It is our hope that this authentic and innovative recording for children helps keep the tradition alive with a new generation of Dixieland Jazz lovers.

I trust you will discover that Dixieland Jazz harmonizes nicely with children’s music because it is lively, upbeat and joyful.

CDs are NOW available on my website! Purchase one today at:

http://johnettedowning.com/store.html