John Farrell: Newsletter

June 21, 2010 Hello Friends, Happy Summer! I hope this greeting finds you well. The changes presented by the recession are weighing heavy on many people in education. If you are going through difficult times, I hope you and your loved ones have the support, good health, and strength you need. As we face new challenges and changes we all need to look for ways to work together and help each other. BUDGET PROBLEMS and BOOKINGS for NEXT SCHOOL YEAR Many districts have cut funding for arts in education and some schools canceled programs this year because of cuts. If you are interested in scheduling a program for next year but uncertain about funding, please contact Mary Jain at 607-965-8983 and we will consider how we can work with you to find creative ways to make it possible. TRIP to SINGAPORE In March I traveled to Singapore where I did a residency at the United World College of Southeast Asia. I met wonderful teachers, parents, and students there and look forward to returning to work with them in the future. While I was there I got to meet Greg Mortenson, author of Three Cups of Tea. He is an inspirational man and a beacon of hope. PEACE POLE recognizes BRIDGES of PEACE and HOPE The Western Connecticut Academy of International Studies Magnet School in Danbury, CT, installed a peace pole in April. The pole has the words “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in 6 different languages and includes a plaque that reads “We Are Walking a Bridge of Peace / John Farrell.” I am grateful to the teachers, parents, and students of the school for including me in the ceremony and for their commitment to work for peace. SOUTH AFRICAN ZULU GROUP on Bridges of Peace and Hope TOUR The incredible 11 man Zulu song and dance ensemble Thula Sizwe will be in New York, CT, Massachusetts and New Jersey in October and November. I will be doing assembly programs and concerts with the group, and Bridges of Peace and Hope will be promoting concerts. We will be joined by Kofi Donkor and Sankofa in some of the programs. To see Thula Sizwe visit You Tube and search for “Thula Sizwe Bridges of Peace and Hope,” to see amazing video of these immensely talented men. To learn about booking call me at 845-216-1939 or send an email to hoperivermusic@yahoo.com. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable cultural experience! FAMILY NEWS Katie has five months remaining in her Peace Corps service in Cameroon. She hopes to go to med school to continue her work in International Public Health. Jack is finishing 10 months in a volunteer program in Arizona and will be home in July to contemplate what’s next for him. Maggie will student teach in September and graduate in December. Colleen is transferring to the University of Virginia for her junior year, and Patrick is taking a leave of absence after one year at Iona. Ann Marie is excited about moving to second grade after 14 yrs in K and 1. DEAR CHILD BOOK and CD Makes a Great Gift and NEW CD available We have created new packaging that includes the book “Dear Child” with the song on CD included in the book. Many people have purchased the Book/CD to give to their children, grandchildren, or expectant parents. Because the illustrations include a family adopting a child it has become a favorite gift for adopting parents. The cost of the Book/CD is $22. My newest CD “Working Together” is available now and includes many songs for Kindergarten and Pre-K children. Call Mary Jain at 607-965-8983 to order books or CD’s or visit our web site at www.johnfarrell.net/music.htm THANKS for YOUR SUPPORT Next year will mark 20 years since I left Macmillan / McGraw-Hill to pursue the dream of writing and performing songs and stories for children and families. It has been a great journey so far and I look forward to the next 20. Thanks to all of you who invite me to your schools and communities and support me through purchasing books and CD’s. Call Mary Jain sometime to say hello. She enjoys hearing from you. I wish you a peaceful and invigorating summer! Keep a Song in Your Heart! John