HARMONIZE, my small business venture, my labor of love for the last decade, has sung its final lullaby.

We held our last class today. Ten years. 3,704 children. Hundreds of classes. Thousands of songs. Millions of smiles.

We've facilitated a myriad of friendships, and we have one marriage to our credit! Two boys who were in my first class in January, 2002 are in juniors in high school this year.

It's been a wild, yet sweet, ride. God has blessed me to have shared ten years of happy mornings with the purity of little children.

Heartfelt thanks to Tanner Carlock, Zoe Jade, Eva Tess, Dea Viola, Kerry Jean Narewski, and Rickman for their talent, energy, support, and love. But, mostly, I thank the families of my sweet little angels, who made this endeavor one of joy.

The sun has said goodnight
The stars are all in bloom
And streams of pale moonlight
Come dancing in your room

So close your tired eyes
And drift off to your dreams
With soft, sweet lullabies,
A kiss, and pale moonbeams.

Much love to you all,

Alisa ♥

BaristaKids: Coffee with Alisa Harmon

Coffee With….Alisa Harmon, Director Music for Aardvarks in Montclair

BY Nicole Gray-Chan  |  Monday, Mar 12, 2012 1:30pm

Alisa Harmon wears many different hats—Director, Montclair Music For Aardvarks and Other Mammals, Certified Teacher at the Developmental Learning Center (DLC) in Montclair, Parents Who Rock performer and band member—and mother to her 3 children, Tanner, Zoe, and Eva.
As the owner of HARMONIZE and Director of Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals (MFA) in Montclair, Alisa epitomizes a groovy approach to playing and teaching music. MFA is a departure from the “sweet and cuddly” approach to music education for young children. Whether she’s singing about snow or babysitters, city life, or aging grandparents, fire engines or bagels, or even the Guggenheim, Alisa brings a sense of whimsy and joy to her classes. There are also fun instruments, sign language interludes and at least 10 minutes of zany dancing.

Barista Kids appreciates that Alisa took time out to chat with Nicole Gray-Chan about music, multitasking and the lessons she’s learned along the way…

Q: How long have you been singing?
I have always been a musician. I grew up singing in church, doing a lot of solos. I was also in choral groups. During freshman year in high school, I was in a folk music band—The Budds. Then as a senior, I joined a rock and roll band, and I was also in a small madrigal group.

Q: You really are a multi-tasker.
Multi-tasking is what I do. I wear a lot of hats, but I’m most me when I’m singing. Singing for me is oxygen.

Q: Which vocalists inspire you most?
I used to fantasize about being Stevie Nicks.  Growing up, I listened to a lot of Fleetwood Mac, the Eagles, and Heart—especially because I was in the South. I love the Eagles because of all of the harmony. Sometimes I would sing my own harmony lines against their songs. Imagine my surprise when I moved to Montclair and met Mark Walsh (the little brother of Joe Walsh from the Eagles)—and then started performing with him.

Q: You’re from the South?
We moved to Alabama from Oregon when I was 13. It was like a foreign country. I finished college there before heading to California as part of a church mission.

Q: When did you start teaching music to toddlers and preschoolers?
We moved to New York City in 1992, and I starting teaching Music Together in 1993. I taught Music Together for eight years. While teaching through the Music Together program I met David Weinstone, the founder and national director of MFA. Our family moved to Montclair in 2000, and I started teaching MFA in Montclair in 2001.

Q: What makes Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals so special?
Music for Aardvarks is not intended to be “perky.” It has a definite beat. It’s fresh and vibrant and goes beyond clichés. MFA has an urbane sensibility. The first song, “Taxi,” which David introduced in the late 1990’s, really captures the attitude of the approach to the music.  (Cue melody: Taxi, taxi! Riding in the back seat. Roll the window up. Roll the window down. Put the money through the slot, “See ya later” “Thanks a lot.” Sure beats walking ‘cross town. )

The interesting thing about ‘Aardvarks’ songs is the dichotomy. Some of the songs are very simple, “Take me to the park, to the park, to the park, to the park, to the park.”

These songs are based on the best parts of life for children. I remember that during that time, every day, I picked up my kids and took them to the park. Another example is “Brush, brush, brush, brush, brush your teeth.” All of these things are relevant. You can say to your baby, “This is your music.” They can own this music.

But then, in a complete 180, there are the lullabies. The lullabies are full of musical genius. David uses a lot of jazz chords and the songs are so, so poetic. The imagery they evoke is amazing.

Rick Celano, my guitarist and Web master, and I get a tremendous amount of pleasure sharing this music with toddlers and their parents.
Q: The lullabies are really deep and nuanced. What is one of your favorites?
I have lots of favorites, but one of my favorite favorites is “Simple Things.” One part that really speaks to me is:  “The day will come, When you’ll be off and I’ll be all but done. You’ll leave this place, But, you’ll leave me with a smile on my face. The simple things, is the stuff of dreams. And I watch you sleep, in these precious days.”

Now that I am at the age that my children are almost “off,” I can recall those years when I sang this lullaby to them. Now, it has come to fruition in my life. In a sense, I’ve come full circle.

Q: There is a profound quality to this music, a sense of bittersweet joy and quiet longing. Do kids get it?
Remember, parents also listen to the music—and they pay attention to the lyrics. The kids understand the power of the melody and the lullaby calm that it imparts.

Q: Is there a story behind the name “Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals?”
I don’t think that there is a special reason that David chose “aardvarks,” though I should point out that “other mammals” is also part of the name.

Q: You are also an educator in the public school system.
Yes, I started working at the DLC, a preschool for children with special needs in Montclair, in 2002.  As a certified teacher there are many interesting things that I bring to teaching these students, including elements of occupational therapy, music therapy, speech therapy, and fine and gross motor skill development. When teaching, I use world music. Montclair is an incredibly diverse and open community—in a way that is absolutely unique—and I try to capture that in choosing from a selection of multi-ethnic music. Music is not mandated in special education, and I am pleased to be able to integrate this dimension into their early education.
Q: How long have you been involved with Parents Who Rock?
I met Alma Schneider, the Founder of PWR, when she brought her first child to Aardvarks. I was excited about singing with her and the other parents in the bands.  I’ve been pleased to be a part of such a great effort.

Q: There have been a lot of really big changes in your life recently, including some significant challenges. Yet, you seem as fresh and vital as ever. What exactly is going on?
My two-decades-old marriage was in its final stages when my husband (the father of my four children) made the choice to leave our family.  I had a small stroke in 2005, due to the stresses of my failing marriage.  As I lay in ICU, I realize that the thing I wanted most was be a mother to my children.  I’ve never missed one of my children’s events, and I am proud of that.  They are phenomenal people.

I am also growing personally and professionally. Currently, I’m in a Master’s program in Inclusive Early Childhood Education at Montclair State University.  I have also started a new business - life coaching for women over 40 who are navigating the treacherous waters of divorce.

One thing that I know with certainty: Nothing ruins your life forever!

Q: Your life is in full bloom—and it comes through in your music. What types of songs are you writing and singing now.
I’m always writing and singing songs. Recently, I wrote a poem/song, “Tapestry.” The point of the song is that I weave the strands of my life into a tapestry. It’s mine to weave…but also mine to take apart….

Copyright © Barista Kids

CD #10 Lyrics

Dirt

I like dirt.  Dirt's what's I dig

I like pokin' around with a big old twig.

I like makin' mud pies and getting' all messy,

'Cause I like dirt and dirt likes me.

Now you may say that I'm a kook

'Cause I like to play in globs of goop;

But that's ok 'cause I'm happy!

I like dirt and dirt likes me.

Everyone Up

Everyone up to start a new day

It’s gonna be a good day.

Everyone out and be on your way

It's gonna be a good day

Everyone's back with something to tell

Something to tell of their day

Everyone off, now it's time for bed

Goodnight, sleep tight sleepyheads.

Ouch!

I got a boo-boo here. I got a boo-boo there.

I bumped my nose and stubbed my toes,

I even I hurt my hair!

I cried and cried and cried some more

And then I finally stopped.

I got a special magic kiss

'Cause boo-boos hurt a lot!

Big Old Dog

Big ol' dog just layin' around

Scratchin' his big ol' fleas.

He don't fetch, won't chase, just takin' up space

Man, that dogs lazy!

But sometimes he says ruff, ruff, ruff

That big ol' hound just lays around,

A bonafide bump on a log

He gets tired and pale just waggin' his tail

Man, that's a lazy dog!

But sometimes he says ruff, ruff, ruff

Fingers

I can count my fingers one two three,

Four, five, six ,seven, eight, nine, ten.

I can make my fingers disappear --

Now they're gone, now they're here again!

I can count my toes, now that's easy

Ten little toes wigglin' on my feet.

I can make my toes all disappear --

Now they're gone, now they're here again!

Copycat Kid

That copycat kid does what I do.

I wave up high and she does, too.

I swing down low and so does she.

That copycat kid does just like me.

That copycat kid does what I do.

I clap clap clap and she does, too.

I slap slap slap so does she.

That copycat kid does just like me.

Daddy's Snorin'

I jumped up in the middle of the night,

I grabbed my teddy bear and I held on tight!

The whole house was shakin'

Gave me quite a fright!

But it was just my Daddy snorin'

Well, the phone ring-rang and I said, "Hello!"

It was Jigglin' Jane from down the road.

She said "My whole house is shakin',

What's going on?”

I said "It's just my Daddy snorin'"

Get a Life

My parents talk about me as if I wasn't there

They talk about my diapers,

They talk about my hair.

They talk about my sniffles,

And my snuggly, and my height.

If I could talk, I'd tell them  --

"Hey, you guys, get a life!"

Pizza Party

If I were mayor of this town

You know what I would say?

I declare that once a week be Pizza Party Day!

The crowd would cheer and jump and shout "Whoopee!" and "Hooray!"

"Oh thank you mayor! Thank you!

For Pizza Party Day!"

Spring Has Come

Winters' done, and Spring has come

Skies are blue the grass is green and warm

Flowers bloom and raise their faces to the sun

Spring has come.

Winter's gone, now Spring is on

The trees all spread their leaves

A robin sings its song

Children run and play all day in the sun

Spring has come.

Traffic Jam

I spy little eye something fun

We're going on vacation everyone

We're gettin' out of town just as fast as we can

Oh no! looks like a traffic jam!

I spy little eye something fun

Cruisin' in the car with the radio on

We're gettin' out of town now that's our plan

Oh no, looks like a traffic jam!

Oh, so slow even turtles go faster then we are! Let's go!

Goodnight

Rock-a-bye baby it won't be long

One magic kiss and a soft little song

Sleepy head eyes and a great big yawn or two

Goodnight, I love you.

Rock-a-bye baby sweetest of dreams

In honey-combed hills and rivers of cream

Big daffodils, orange and green and blue

Goodnight, I love you.

Goodnight to all and to all a goodnight

The stars have come out

And the moon’s shining bright

I'll see you again at first morning light anew

Goodnight, I love you.

Get Around

East Side, West Side, all around town

Sometimes I'm up; sometimes I'm down

To the bank, to the butcher, to the pastry shop

I get around town with a hop, hop, hop

East Side, West Side, all around town

Sometimes I'm up; sometimes I'm down

To the video store and the vegetable stand

I get around town, now catch me if you can

MUSIC for AARDVARKS CD #10

CD #8 Lyrics

Birdie

Hey, there, little birdie, you sure sing purty.

Sittin’ on my window, woke me up early.

Did you have your breakfast? We’d better hurry

You can catch the worms and I’ll pick the berries.

Shhhh!

If you’re very, very quiet and you listen carefully

You can hear the wind, blowing through the trees.

There are lots of things that you can hear

That you cannot see,

If you’re very, very quiet and you listen carefully.

If you’re very, very quiet and you listen carefully

You can hear your breath every time you breathe.

There are lots of things that you can hear

That you cannot see,

If you’re very, very quiet and you listen carefully.

Big Brother/Sister

Little bitty baby all wrinkled and new

Not much little bitty baby can do

But that’s ok one day I’ll show you how

‘Cause I’m your big brother/sister now

Little bitty baby all wrinkled and new

Not much little bitty baby can do

But that’s ok one day I’ll take ya ‘round

‘Cause I’m your big brother/sister now

Little bitty baby all wrinkled and new

Not much little bitty baby can do

But that’s ok we’ll be the best of pals

‘Cause I’m your big brother/sister now

Ruby’s Friends

Ruby sits down and serves up the tea.

She pours out one cup, then two and then three.

And she’s off in a world of her own,

But, I don’t think that she’s all alone.

There goes Ruby, she likes to pretend.

A toast to the host with the most,

and what counts in the end:

Some very good friends.

Ruby runs in with her favorite toys.

Sits down to play and makes much funny noise.

And she’s off in a world of her own,

But I don’t think that she’s all alone.

Caboose

They call me caboose ‘cause I’m always behind,

Tagging along at the end of the line.

Everyone’s bigger and faster than me,

But I’m getting bigger and one day I’ll be!

I've got my little engine runnin’

Watch out ‘cause I’m a comin’

I’m a little caboose, but I’ve got plenty of juice

And I’m chug chug chug chug chug chug chug chug

Chugin’ chugin’ right on time!

Simple Things

The day is done,

So close your eyes and sleep now little one,

'Til morning breaks

And wakes you with a smile upon your face.

The simple things, is the stuff of dreams

And I watch you sleep, in these precious days.

The day will come

When you’ll be off and I’ll be all but done.

You’ll leave this place,

But, you’ll leave me with a smile on my face

The simple things, is the stuff of dreams

And I watch you sleep, in these precious days.

Big Boom Wacker

I’m a click click clicker

I’m a clack clack clacker

I’m a tip top sticker

I’m a tap tap tapper

I’m a bang bang banger

I’m a smack smack smacker

I’m a do my own thinger

I’m a big boom whacker!

Walk

When I was learning how to walk

I fell down on my butt!

It only hurt a little bit, and so I got back up.

I think I fell five times that day,

And then I fell five more!

Good thing I am kinda small ,

Not too far from the floor!

La La Land

On Ezra's feet two fuzzy sheep

And he’s wearin’ stars and moons.

Up to bed, a story's read,

He drifts right off and soon

He’s in la la la,
He’s in la la la la la

And Ezra cares for nappy bears,

Robots and baboons.

He tucks ‘em in tight and says goodnight,

Then drifts right off and soon

He’s in la la la, he’s in la la la la la

Ten Little Toes

I've got my Mama’s eyes, I've got my Daddy’s ears

I've got my Granpop’s Sealy-Postupedic rear

And I’ve been told I’ve Marlon Brando’s nose

Well, THAT BLOWS!

It seems the only thing belonging to me

Are my ten little toes!

I need my eyes to see I need my ears to hear

And if I want to sit down I’m gonna need my rear

I couldn’t smell a rose without my nose,

THAT BLOWS!
It seems the only thing belonging to me

Are my ten little toes!

Snow Storm

The snow was whirlin’ and twirlin’ and swirlin’ around;

The people were hurryin’ scurryin’ all over town.

And even the dogs wore boots on their paws,

The snow piled high up to their eyeballs,

And all the kids cried Hooray! Hooray! for the snow!

The snow was whirlin’ and twirlin’ and swirlin’ around;

The people were hurryin’ scurryin’ all over town.

And even the cats wore little felt hats,

The snow piled high right up to their backs.

And all the kids cried Hooray! Hooray! for the snow!

Pudding Pie

I was in the tummy, craving something yummy,

When down fell a pickle from the sky!

Now I may not understand, how it is that I am

But I sure know that pickles can’t fly!

So I swam up to the top, more curious than not

And yelled, “I’d like a chocolate pudding pie!”

Clap!

One step forward, one step back,

Turn yourself around and clap clap clap

Now you’ve really got it

Put your hands on your hips

And kick up high just like this:

Two steps forward, two steps back

Turn yourself around and clap clap clap,

Now you’ve really got it

Put your hands on your head

And jump jump jump like your bouncin’ on the bed

Three steps forward, three steps back

Turn yourself around and clap clap clap.

Now you’ve really got it

Goodbye, farewell!

Turn your siren on. And ring your bell!

CD #9 Lyrics

Tess
She turns round and round
Like a maypole at the fair
She has silken scarves
And she flies them through the air

She’s got a pretty blue dress
And the sunlight’s in her hair
Hey, have you seen Tess,
When she’s dancing, not a care?

Hey, have you seen Tess
When she’s dancing through the air?
Hey, have you seen Tess
When she’s dancing through the air?

Grumpy
If you want to be a grump/nudge/pest that’s ok;
But, could you be grumpy kinda further away?
It’s not that I don’t love ya ‘
Cause you know I do!
Sometimes I’m grumpy, too.

And I think I understand
Exactly what it is your going through:
Your oatmeal’s lumpy; your socks are all bumpy
What’s a poor kid to do?

Car Trouble
We were driving along in the family car
We were singing a song but we didn’t get far
The car started shakin’ makin’ funny sounds
And then it up and died and laid right down
So we pushed that car down to Greasy Joe’s
And he said it’d be about a hundred bucks/thousand bucks/million bucks or so
(Then we piled in and started again)

Family Day
It’s family day
And we’re all feeling gay
‘Cause we’ll be together, all together
Hooray, hooray!
It’s family day
And we’ll be together, all together
It doesn’t matter if it rains or if it shines
We’ll be together and just havin’ a good time

Pirate Sam
The pirates set out on the waves and raised their sails to catch the wind
And I was scared but I was brave. I stepped right up and joined right in

Hello, hello, hello, hello
My name is Pirate Sam
And I would like to go
To strange exciting lands

The ship was tossed in ten-foot waves
The pirates danced their pirate jig
And I was scared but I was brave
I stepped right up and joined right in

Hello, hello, hello, hello
My name is Pirate Sam
And I would like to go
To strange exciting lands

Don’t You Cry
Oh my darling don’t you cry
I’ll be here right by your side
Sing you soft sweet lullabies
Hush now baby don’t you cry
Oh my darling, oh my darling, little one

Oh my darling understand
I’ll stay here and hold your hand
Keep you warm and by my side
Hush now baby don’t you cry
Oh my darling, oh my darling, little one

When night has fallen and all is still
I know that sometimes, you’re afraid
But I’ll be there to comfort you and wipe those little tears away

Ice Cream
I don’t think I can hardly walk.
My poor old tired feet
I wish someone would carry me.
I’m very, very weak
Hey wait, is that the ice cream truck?
I sure could use a treat!
Come on we better hurry!
I’ll race you down the street!

New York
There’s so much to see! There’s so much to do!
Can you guess where I am? I’ll give you a clue.
The buildings are up. The subways are down.
They call it New York. It’s my kind of town.

There’s so much to see! There’s so much to do!
Can you guess where I am? I’ll give you a clue.
The people all rush. around and around.
They call it New York. It’s my kind of town.

If I Were in Charge
If I were in charge you know what I’d do?
I’d make the day longer an hour or two
The sun would stay up
And the sky would stay blue
If I were in charge that’s what I’d do
(And then I’d make it snow at the beach)

Mr. Fluze
Poor Mr. Fluze was not amused
A bit too tight were his new shoes
And as he ouched his way to town
His big old pants kept falling down
And just as he had managed that
A gust of wind blew off his hat!
Poor Mr. Fluze was not amused
Not at all was Mr. Fluze

Rain
I can hear the raindrops falling down,
Pitter-patter on the glass
I can see the clouds go drifting by,
Hear the thunder clap
The treetops blow wild and dance in the wind
I like to hear the rain come down,
From my nice warm bed

Birthday
I like cherry pop a lot
And big bright red balloons
Presents piled high in boxes
All around the room
Hooray! It’s my birthday
All my friends are here
Hooray! It’s my birthday
I’m bigger one whole year

I like chocolate cake and ice cream
Melting in my mouth
Make a wish, now it’s a secret.
Blow the candles out
Hooray! It’s my birthday
All my friends are here
Hooray! It’s my birthday
I’m bigger one whole year!

The One That Got Away
The last golden rays of you
Shine forever in this world
No horizon lays in wait
For the one that got away

And all flowers bend toward you
But if only for your warmth
And all heaven breathes a sigh
For the ones that just slip by

CD #7 Lyrics

WHEN WILL WE GET THERE?
When will we get there? When will we get there?
When will we get there? We want to know.
Hurray we're here! Hurray we're here!
Hurray we're here! When can we go?

LOLLIPOP DOC
I was feeling pretty bad, my tummy and my head..
My doctor, she looked down my throat,
Said , “Son/Girl best get in bed!”
I said, “Okie Dokie,
You know best 'cos you're the doc
But before I go I'd like to know
Hey, where's my lollipop?!”

I got a lollipop doc, a lollipop doc,
I got a lollipop doc, a lollipop doc
I got a lollipop doc, a lollipop doc,
I got a lollipop doc and I like her a lot!

I was feeling pretty bad, my tummy and my head..
My doctor took my temperature,
Said, “Son/Girl best get in bed!”
I said, Okie Dokie,
You know best 'cos you're the doc
But before I go I'd like to know
Hey where's my lollipop?!”

STICKY MICKEY
I got a hug from Mickey,
But yuck! Was Mickey sticky!
His nose, his hands, his ears, his hair,
He/she was sticky everywhere!
I thought I smelled a gummy bear
And just a hint of licorice
But Mickey only giggled and said
Aren't my hugs delicious!

MELTDOWN
I'm cool, I'm calm, I'm happy as a clam
I am, I am, I am, I am, I am, I am, I am
I'm loose as a goose, and silly as a clown
But now I think it's time for my little…
Meltdown!

I LIKE YOUR TOYS
I like your toys I really do,
I like your jigglypuff and pikachu
I like your beanie babies too
They're all so soft and shiny new
But mostly I really like you
And I'm coming over!

I like your toys, I really does
I like your Woody and your Buzz
I like your slime ball all covered in fuzz
From when we rolled it ‘round the rug
But mostly I like you just because
And I'm coming over!

MY SONG
I can do anything; listen while I sing a song
I hear the music inside and I sing along
A la-la-la here and a do-do-do there
It's silly as beans, but I don't even care
It's my song

I can do anything; listen while I sing a song
Sometimes I just make it up as I go along
A la-la-la here and a do-do-do there
It's silly as beans, but I don't even care
It's my song

SWING TOWN
There's a beat down on the street
That really swings
Not far away the congas play and sirens sing
Listen there is music all around
All day all night in this swingin' town

There's a vibe you can't deny it's really hot
A subway sax, the corner cats
Sing shoo, shoo, shoo, do-wop
Listen there is music all around
All day all night in this swingin' town
This swingin' town.

SLO MO JOE
Slow Mo Joe was kind of slow you know-o-o
He didn't have very much get up and go-o
Then he ate ten Twinkies
And some ice cream and Oreos
And Slow Mo Joe was slow no mo'

He started jumpin' up and down
Then he was runnin' all around
He was freakin' out, having a blast,
Then Slow Mo Joe just kinda crashed!

ME AND MY DAD
Just walking along, walking hand in hand
Just me and my Dad, on a beautiful day
Chit chatting away, about any old thing
'Cause me and my Dad, we are the best of friends.

Walking, walking down the street
Riding way up high on my daddy seat
Chit chatting away, all the day
I hope it never ends
'Cause me and my Dad, we are the best of friends.

TANGO
I do a funny little dance like this/like so
It's really easy you just twist/dip down low
And then you jump up and you jump right back
And take a bow and tip your hat.

And then you fly like a bird up in the sky!


ME
I am wonderful, super-fantabulous
My mommy told me so,
And then she tickled my tummy and kissed my toes!
I am wonderful, super-fantabulous
My daddy said it's true, and then he gave me a squeeze and kissed my knees!
I am wonderful, super-fantabulous
Mommy and daddy both said I was,
And when I asked them why,
They said just because!

PANCAKE
I was eating breakfast when I got a funny feeling
I looked up and there I saw my pancake on the ceiling
I guess it must have fallen up, instead of falling down
'Cause normally my pancake lands ker-splatt!
Right on the ground.

DAYS LIKE THESE
Ezra Laine is lost in thought and blue sky
Watching elephants and ships roll by
Mimi the cat is chasing butterflies, again

Days, days like these, were meant for watching clouds and drifting off to sleep
Far away, far away

Summertime, and the Living is Easy

Hello, Music Fans! We are gearing up for fun and frolic for the summer session. Please drop me a line and let me know which classes you want. They fill quickly! Much love to each of you!

www.HarmonizeNJ.com

CD #4 Lyrics

NEW McDONALD
Old McDonald had a farm. E-yi E-yi Yo!
But I live in a walk up. Ready, Set, Go!
Up the steps, one two, three.
Hey, can Ezra play with me?
Up the steps, four, five, six.
Who’s bakin’ cookies? Chocolate chips!
Up the steps, seven, eight, nine.
That door’s familiar. Oh it’s mine!
Up the steps ten, eleven, twelve.
From the roof the view is swell!


UP ON THE BRIDGE
I’m up on the bridge; I’m high in the sky
I can see the river and the ships roll by
I wonder where they’re going?
Bet’cha far away
I’m gonna see the whole wide world one day!


I CRACK ME UP
I crack me up with the funny things I do
I’m a monkey in the zoo
I crack me up with funny things I say
Meet me tomorrow if not yesterday – Hey!
I crack me up and up and up and up
I crack me up until I fall down
I’m a big laugh all around

I crack me up with the funny things I do
I’m an elephant in the zoo
I crack me up with funny things I say
Foopy-bo-poopy and boink! – Hey!
I crack me up and up and up and up
I crack me up until I fall down
I’m a big laugh all around


GINGER AND FRED
I’m whirling, I’m twirling, I’m dancing on air
I spin with a grin ‘cause I haven’t a care
The sun in your pigtails has gone to my head
Oh, I love to dance like Ginger and Fred

I’m whirling, I’m twirling, I’m dancing on air
I spin with a grin ‘cause I haven’t a care
The stars in your eyes have gone to my head
Oh, I love to dance like Ginger and Fred.

GIRL POWER
My baby turns some heads when she strolls by
She’s got brains to match those big brown eyes
She’s all that and more in half the size

Listen up, now! Have you heard the news?
That little girl can even tie her shoes
And she’s got brains and she’s got attitude

Everybody shout out girls are cool!
You good ol’ boys best get your class in school
That little girl is gonna change some rules


VELCRO
I like a zipper when it’s easy to zip
And a snap’s ok when it’s gotta be quick
I can manage a button, but I’d rather not
But there is one thing I like a lot

It’s velcro, I love that sound
Velcro, like it all around
Velcro, now velcro’s hip
And I like it much better
Than the snap and a zip


I’M A BIRD
Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane!
It’ssssss…a bird

Tweet tweet tweet tweet tweet I’m a bird
Tweet tweet tweet tweet tweet Just a bird

The last time we left Birdie, he wasn’t reversing any natural disasters, chasing any bad guys, or saving anybody! He was just flying around, singing, like this…

GET DOWN
Get down, get down, get down, get down, get down, Get down, get down and crawl around.
Everybody’s bigger than me and they’re walkin’
Everybody’s bigger than me and they’re talkin’
But I’m not gonna to let it get me down
‘Cause I’ve got my own special way to get around.


FIRE TRUCK
I was eatin’ beans and bread
When my dog Ralph sat up and said
I don’t mean to alarm you Dave,
But I think your hair’s on fire.

Then I heard the bell
And the engines roar
And the sirens wail
And a big loud horn
The fire truck pulled right on up
And put my hair right out.

I was standin’ on my head

I was swimmin’ on my bed

BIG OLD TREE
I am a big old tree
Stuck in the ground is me
If I had just one wish
I’d like to dance like this:

I’d do a little bump
I’d do a little twist
I’d do a little jump
And wiggle just like this
I’d do the funky chicken; it’s silly yes I know
And then I’d pack my trunk and hit the road.


EVERYBODY’S GROOVIN’
Everybody’s groovin’
Up and out and movin’
Trees and flowers bloomin’
Spring has come to town.

At the park they’re walkin’
Hangin’ out and talkin’
Playing ball and chalkin’
Spring has come to town

We’ll sing and dance around again
Oh, Spring has come to town


I’M A SWINGER
I’m a swinger from way back
Back and forth I go
I’ve swung on every swing there is
And swiveled some you know.

I’m a slider from way back
Up and down I go
I’ve slid on every slide there is,
Some slippery, some slow.

I’m a climber from way back
All around I go
I’ve clung on every climb there is
From here to Buffalo.


BIG PALE MOON
The sun has said good night
The stars are all in bloom
And beams of pale moonlight
Are dancing in your room

So close your tired eyes
And drift off to your dreams
With soft sweet lullabies
A kiss and pale moonbeams

Good night my little one
Good night the big pale moon
I’ll see you when the sun
Comes dancing in your room

So close your tired eyes
And drift off to your dreams
With soft sweet lullabies
A kiss and pale moonbeams

Music for Aardvarks, CD #4

Express Yourself!

Hello, Music fans!

Art + Music + Little Kids = BIG FUN  

This Spring, HARMONIZE: Rock, Play, Groove is teaming up with StudioKidsArt to make Friday mornings a jammin' good time!

"Make & Shake," the newest offering from Suzanne O'Connor of @The Art Studio and Alisa Harmon of HARMONIZE:Rock, Play Groove is a hybrid class - art and music.  The first half-hour will be spent making a rhythm instrument, and the second half-hour will be spent using that instrument in a fun music class!

The music in this class with be from the hip 'n happenin' phenomenon known as Music for Aardvarks & Other Mammals!

Come, join, create, groove, enjoy the magic of Springtime!

New Location for HARMONIZE in Cranford!

BIG NEWS!

HARMONIZE: Rock, Play, Groove will be venturing out, embracing a platform that has been offered by other Music for Aardvarks licensees for years.

We are offering a new way to enjoy music with your children, and we are calling it "Play Date Jam" and "Family Jam!"

Jams will be held at a great location in Cranford: Little Scoops on North Avenue.  This ice cream parlor, franchised by Susan Chin, has a great party room where she offers lots of classes and activities.  We're so happy to have been asked to bring M U S I C to the Little Scoops line-up!  Yay!

This party room is so much fun!  It's bright and kid-friendly, and there is even a disco ball on the ceiling!  Our first jam was such a success (more than 40 families) that we just had to climb back on board the Union County bandwagon with Little Scoops!  We're so freakin' excited!

Please note: these jams will feature all genres of music - rock, blues, reggae, ska, jazz, pop, etc., including world music from around the globe.  These play date jams will NOT feature Music for Aardvarks & Other Mammals.

HARMONIZE: Rock, Play, Groove is licensed for Music for Aardvarks & Other Mammals in Montclair - just a short trip on the Parkway from Cranford!  In the past, we've had folks travel to Montclair from all over Union & Morris counties for our MfA classes; so, if it's MfA you want, we can certainly deliver!

Whether in Montclair for MfA or in Cranford for Jams, HARMONIZE inspires kids and their grown-ups to rock, play, and groove!  :) Woo hoo!

Thank You Note from a 2-year-old's Birthday Party ~

Hi, Alisa –

I just wanted to thank you so much for performing such a wonderful party, for all of the thought that you put into it, and for incorporating “I Like to Move It” at the last minute!  Everyone really enjoyed the party and were so impressed with what you did!

Thanks again to you and Rick, and have a wonderful day!

-SG

"One Magic Kiss" providing a soundtrack to one family's life ~

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RogItD8LBA8

Cassie dancing to "Move Your Feet"

How sweet is this?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxZZvimbg1Q

New site is LIVE!

Ok, music fans - the HARMONIZE:Rock, Play, Groove site has gotten an amazing make-over!  Please drop by and take a look.  We are SO proud of it!

www.HarmonizeNJ.com

www.RockPlayGroove.com

Please, please comment on what you like (or don't like) so we can get your perspectives on it.  Always seeking ways to serve you better.  :)

Much love -

A.

TESTIMONIAL - Kristen Kemp, BaristaKids

When I take my toddler son to Music for Aardvarks in Montclair, I feel like a hip and cool local momma.

There is no Barney there. They don’t do patty-cakes. Instead, there are real instruments, a real person playing them, and there is even a super-talented singer at every class, often owner Alisa Harmon.

I’m thrilled that I can drop into Music for Aardvarks classes.

-KK

Interview by Kristen Kemp (MontclairKids, now BaristaKids)

INTERVIEW with Alisa Harmon, Director of HARMONIZE

by Kristen Kemp

I’m cramming to get my baby boy into more activities this winter.  He can get a spot in Music for Aardvarks, my personal favorite. Even better–he loves it.

We have a blast listening to owner Alisa Harmon and her talented staff sing cool baby songs and play live instruments. It sure beats Barney.

Alisa recently gave an interview to MontclairKids about her local franchise.

Kristen: Why did you start Music for Aardvarks?
Alisa Harmon: I had been teaching for a different national music program in Brooklyn, and I was SO bored with the music, but not with teaching. Since David Weinstone (founder of MfA) and I were friends, I wanted to “spread the love” and be the first center director to bring Aardvarks to Jersey when I moved to Montclair.

K: What’s so special about MfA?
A: Aardvarks music is original, unexpected and fun! A lot of children's music drives parents crazy–with songs from the 1700 and 1800s–but Aardvarks is just good music, so everyone likes it. All of our songs are written locally by David Weinstone, founder of MfA.  If someone requests one of my songs, I’ll sing that. Also, I have real instruments–not just toy store versions of instruments–because I believe that the children are making real music with them. Quality products breed a quality experience.

K: What is the best part of a session for you? For the kids?
A: The best part happens a thousand different ways, at a thousand different times. When a child’s eyes light up, and he or she connects with the teacher, the parent, or another child.  It is pure magic when that happens.  I live for it!

Classes cost $210 for a 9-week session, and you can add a sibling for just $79. Go to Music for Aardvarks to sign up, or just email Alisa directly.

We’re going on Thursdays. Just look for the very fat, very excited 16-month-old boy who’s jumping around, singing and clapping his hands.

We're Opening Another Montclair Location!

BIG NEWS!!!!!!

Harmonize & StudioKidsArt are teaming up! We have formed an alliance to offer music classes on Glenridge Avenue in Montclair! Monday mornings will never be the same!

And, we have a NEW Music for Aardvarks CD - the first in 8 years - coming out in March.
...
Contact Suzanne O'Connor at MonaLisa@StudioKidsArt.com or Alisa Harmon at Alisa@RockPlayGroove.com for more information!

Lyrics for Songs on CD #6 - Winter 2011

WHAT'S IN THE BAG?
 Hey Dad, what’s in the bag?

What’s in the bag for me?

Whaddaya mean shaving cream?

That’s no fun for me!

Whaddaya mean coffee beans?

That’s no fun for me!

MIAMI GRAMMY

I love my Grammy

She lives in Miami

With her boyfriend

His name is Sammy

We’ll go swimming at the beaches,

Pick some lemons and some peaches

And dance around the living room.

I’m flying thru the clouds on a big airplane

I’m gonna be with my Grammy soon

I’ll get a brand new Barbie doll,

See a movie at the mall

And have a back yard barbecue.

I’m flying thru the clouds on a big airplane

I’m gonna be with my Grammy soon

MY CAT

I was sitting on the floor when my cat strolled in

She had a funny kind of look

And a strange kind of grin!

I said, “Hey cat! How’s the weather?”

And my cat said “Phh!”

And out popped a feather

I said, “That’s pretty clever; can you do that again?”

And my cat said “Phh!” and out popped ten!

JACKHAMMER JOE

Jackhammer Joe and Big Belly Pete

Are digging a hole down in the street

They're fixing the pipes

That lay underground

So cover your ears - that jackhammer’s loud!

They’re fixing the cables

That run underground

So cover your ears that jackhammer’s loud!

OMI AND CLAIRE

Omi and Claire an inseparable pair

Were having their tea with lady-like airs

When Omi said “Claire, you have four cookies;

I’ve only three, and that’s not fair!”

They argued they stomped on the ground

They banged on the table

The cookies fell down

The dog ate them up

And Omi and Claire did agree

Now that’s funny

Omi and Claire an inseparable pair

Were having their tea with lady-like airs

When Omi said, “Claire, may I pour you more tea?”

And she said, “Thank you, please.”

SUBWAY

Bing bong, the doors open on the train

Bing bong, all the people pile in

Bing bong, and the doors shut tight

And we’re rolling down the track

Rolling down the track

Bing bong, now here’s our stop

Bing bong, all the doors open up

Bing bong, I say bye-bye train

‘Cause it’s rolling down the track

Rolling down the track 

Bing bong, clickety clickety clack

Bing bong, clickety clickety clack    

Bing bong, clickety clickety clack                 

We’re rolling down the track

We’re rolling down the track

I'M A SNAKE

I’m a snake if you ask

I slither and slide through the tall, tall grass

I’m a bird don’t you know

 I flap my wings and up I go

I’m a dolphin that’s me

I jump and dive in the deep blue sea

BAGEL

I’m big and round, got a hole in the middle

I’m lumpy and bumpy and they call me pumpernickel

I’m good in the morning, I’m good at night

A little bit of butter and I taste just right

Come on, gobble me up, gobble me up

gobble, gobble, gobble me up

Yummy, yummy, yummy, yummy, yum, yum, yummy

That bagel sure tastes good in my tummy

A little bit of butter and jelly too

Who wants bagels? Hey, I do!

Come on, gobble me up, gobble me up

gobble, gobble, gobble me up

BLANKET OF SNOW

When I awoke one winter’s day

The weather was cold and the sky was gray

I zipped up my coat and went out to play

The snow was tumbling down

And it came down, down, down, down

A blanket of snow on the ground

I dreamed the snow had melted away

The sun was as hot as a summer’s day

I zipped up my coat and went out to play

And the snow was tumbling down

LITTLE BUNNY

I'm a little bunny I can wiggle my ears

I'm a little bunny, I can wiggle my nose

I'm a little bunny, I can wiggle my tail

And here's a little story

About the night I spent in jail

Well, I was hoppin' around

I was hoppin' and I hopped right into town

I was hoppin' when I hopped the train

I was still hoppin' when the police came.

I wiggled my ears and I wiggled my tail

They said, “That's cute bunny,

Now hop right on into jail!”

I'm a little bunny I can wiggle my ears

I'm a little bunny, I can wiggle my nose

I'm a little bunny, I can wiggle my tail

And that's my little story

About the night I spent in jail

MOVE YOUR FEET

Can you move your feet to the crazy beat?

Can you wiggle your hips?

Let your backbone slip?

Can you wave up high into the sky?

Get up, get down

Can you give a little jump and do a little bump?

Can you spin like a top, now just don't stop?

Can you shake it all around to the crazy sound?

Get up, get down

WHERE I WANT TO BE

Little one where have you gone?

Off to somewhere I can hardly dream of

Sound asleep on mountain peaks

That kiss the clouds

Is where I want to be, Love

Through your eyes

I see the world’s warm embrace... embrace

Little one where have you gone

Off to somewhere I can hardly dream of

Silver seas that splash the knees

Of laughing children

Is where I want to be, Love

Through your eyes

I see the world’s warm embrace... embrace

SECRET PLACE

Sunlight dances through the leaves

That slip away and float to me

The world that only I can see

In my secret place

The wind that whispers in my ears

A song so beautiful and clear

The world that only I can hear

In my secret place

No one knows where it may be

No one knows except for me

Music for Aardvarks, CD #6

Music & Lyrics by David Weinstone

We're Changing Our Name & Our Look, But NOT our Mission

Big news from Harmonize!  We are changing our name and adding a tag line to better convey what we offer to the younger set in Montclair, New Jersey.

We are now:

HARMONIZE: Rock, Play, Groove
Rockin' & Groovin' for Little Kids

You can still reach us at www.HarmonizeNJ.com.
You may also reach us at www.RockPlayGroove.com

Our phone number remains the same, 973-655-0103.

Our updated site will be live soon, with tweaked graphics, colors, and some cute new cartoon characters.

Stay tuned!

Follow us on Twitter!

Whatever that means - ha ha.  Yeah, we're joining even more of the fray.  HARMONIZENJ is now on Twitter!  Join us!

Tweet, tweet.

Alisa