Students and faculty at Crestwood’s Primary and Intermediate Schools will ring in the tenth school year in the same way they celebrated the first one; with a concert by national children’s musician and author Jim Gill. Gill has performed for early childhood educators, families and children’s librarians across the country, and on September 25th, he will again be sharing his playful songs and active play with students and faculty of Crestwood Schools.
Gill’s performances, which include equal parts of music and movement, encourage audience participation. Website Daily Candy picked Gill’s album entitled, “Music Play for Folks of all Stripes,” as one of their top six children’s music picks of 2011. Their review explains why, stating, “The Chicago-based musician, author, and child development specialist does more than lay down plucky rhythms. He pours on charm with word prompts, clap-alongs, and games — which makes the album as much about play as song.”
Jim Gill’s music will be familiar to Crestwood students, as CPS Music teacher Mrs. Jennifer Gilles uses it often during her lessons. Crestwood expects a combined total of over 900 students and faculty from both school buildings to attend at the three performances in the Primary School Cafeteria, and have also invited area preschools to join the fun.
Mrs. Cindy Ducca, CPS Principal, is thrilled to kick off this tenth year of Crestwood Primary School, and her first with the District, by hosting three lively concerts. These concerts will give children in preschool through fifth grade the time and space to enjoy the show. Mrs. Gilles and second grade teacher Mrs. Monica Grebb wrote the grant to pay for the anniversary concert, which is made possible through the generosity of the Hiram Community Trust, and donations from PTO, and Primary and Intermediate School Principals.
Gill has shared his expertise on music, play and literacy with organizations such as Head Start, the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and the National Association for Family Child Care. To hear his music or to find out more, visit: jimgill.com.
