Storytelling and performing children's music are two of my passions and talents. I travel to schools, libraries, preschools (all over really) to perform musical programs that are educational, entertaining, and motivating. While music is my passion, my love is teaching. For 11 years I taught first grade in Verona, Wisconsin. My music is an extension of my favorite part of teaching, which is helping children understand themselves and the world around them. Personal appearances are educational, upbeat musical programs that involve children as active participants. The kids sing some, move some, act some, dance some, shout just a little bit, laugh a bunch, and learn some very important things. The adults just sit back and enjoy the show. Playing music and singing have been parts of my life for over 15 years. I am a singer and guitar player for the "Cork n' Bottle String Band," a professional Bluegrass band based in Madison, WI. We have played a regular, weekly show in Madison for the past eight years and were voted "Madison's Favorite Folk Music Band" by the Isthmus Readers' Poll in 2001, 2002 and 2003. I have enjoyed playing for children since my first teaching job in 1990.