Singing in Public

When I was a kid I learned a very important lesson about singing in public:

Don't do it!

Occasionally, my mother, overcome with some George Harrison vibe, would spontaneously break out in "Here Comes the Sun". Us kids (there were seven of us) would break out in sarcasm, ridicule and derision. We were merciless, as only children can be. I was young and impressionable and that was my first introduction to singing in public. I got the message -- Singing is for professionals only!

But at Hudson Park a tradition of singing during our children's programs dates back several years to Walter Minkel's ukulele-playing days. The tradition was continued more recently by Warren Truitt. These two children's librarians think that song is the best way to interest the very young children who frequent our library and get them started in language and books. The problem is, I think they're right.

The bigger problem is that neither of them are here any longer to lead the programs.

You would think I'd never dare to try leading the programs myself, but somehow, the show must go on. Cue "I've Been Working on the Railroad" and let it rip. We're singin' songs!.

What have I learned?

Singing for the kids isn't so bad.

It can even be fun!

And if you get them early enough, they won't even realize that you're singing off key. And, really, it is a great way to connect with young kids.

But many people are afraid to sing for an audience, so here are some things I've learned in the past few months that I'd like to share with you singing-phobic parents:

Keep to the standards. There's a reason "She'll Be Comin' 'Round the Mountain" remains popular despite the dearth of white horses in modern America -- It's easy to sing! It's in a middle range that most people can reach and it's repetitious.

Save the pop songs for the shower. Pop songs are hard. Most pop singers have a range two octaves broader than you and me, especially in the higher ranges. Even relatively simple songs like "Here Comes the Sun" are much more difficult than "I've Been Working on a Railroad".

That said, you can always try introducing any song you like. The other day I caught a young boy joyfully singing "I Am the Walrus". You never know. You can find midis on the Internet of almost any song you can think of.

Get the kids singing too. Many songs are simple, very repetitious, and ubiquitous. Your kids will probably know the tunes without even realizing it. If you need help with the tunes or the words, look on YouTube, or borrow a kids music CD from your local branch.

Most importantly, come to our programs at Hudson Park. Singing in a group is always easier than singing on your own. Learn the songs with us, then take them home and sing them with your kids! Hudson Park holds children's programs every Tuesday at 3:30 (Toddler Storytime, our program with the least amount of singing), every Wednesday at 11 (Baby Lapsit, almost all songs) and every Thursday at 3:30 (Kid's Music, almost all songs).

And thanks to Katia and Chris for doing their share of singing, too.