tag:lucykalantari.com,2005:/blogs/latest-news?p=12Latest News2020-11-17T16:24:26-05:00Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catsfalsetag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/64798372020-11-17T16:24:26-05:002022-02-06T15:26:57-05:00Interview with RockMommy<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/a25649ee2e360f79ef58b727f570598bce5a3e48/original/cropped-rockmommymain-tag-01.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Huge thanks to Rockmommy and the fabulous Rew Starr for this sweet interview about mommying and musicking it up during the pandemic. Check it! #gratitude</p>
<p><a contents="https://rockmommy.com/2020/11/17/lucy-kalantari-on-motherhood-music-and-feeling-thankful/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://rockmommy.com/2020/11/17/lucy-kalantari-on-motherhood-music-and-feeling-thankful/" target="_blank">https://rockmommy.com/2020/11/17/lucy-kalantari-on-motherhood-music-and-feeling-thankful/</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/64285412020-09-09T00:01:01-04:002020-09-09T00:01:20-04:00Virtual concert for Smith Memorial Playground!<p>Thrilled to be part of Philly's Smith Memorial Playground's new Virtual Concert Series called, PlayJam! Join Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats as well as the FABULOUS Mista Cookie Jar on Thursday, September 10th from 4pm to 5pm for tons of fun! Here's an amazing write up on the Philly Inquirer:</p>
<p><a contents="https://www.inquirer.com/entertainment/smith-playground-fringe-festival-ants-on-a-log-young-naturalist-20200906.html" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.inquirer.com/entertainment/smith-playground-fringe-festival-ants-on-a-log-young-naturalist-20200906.html" target="_blank">https://www.inquirer.com/entertainment/smith-playground-fringe-festival-ants-on-a-log-young-naturalist-20200906.html</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/63973922020-07-30T12:51:27-04:002022-02-26T07:43:54-05:00Mummy Masks<p><a contents="" data-link-label="mummy-mask.pdf" data-link-type="file" href="/files/1069431/mummy-mask.pdf"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/275fa50f9d64c6a862f24b02ac738c3112d05ee2/original/mummy-mask.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>So grateful to all the friends and family who joined us this morning for our show for the Brooklyn Public Library Summer Reading Program! One of the story songs we performed today was My Mommy is A Mummy! :D Here's a printable mask if you'd like your own.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/61112792020-01-16T10:05:23-05:002020-01-16T10:06:12-05:00Helping Puerto Rico!<p>Happy New Year, my dear friends. </p>
<p>It's been a rough start for may in Puerto Rico as they experienced devastating earthquakes just last week. They are still recovering from Hurricane Maria and could really use help. It's because of this, I'm dedicating my Day of Service to benefit Hispanic Federation, who have people on the ground in PR right now.</p>
<p>Join me on Monday, January 20th at 11am at Lark for my Spanish sing along to benefit Puerto Rico!</p>
<p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/9965da6e7f1e7589b1689c673adc713b6a47623b/original/hf-singalong.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/59071132019-09-27T00:59:01-04:002019-09-27T10:56:19-04:00NEW song for Halloween! "Flick of My Wrist"<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/d7e974cb175622f3e03ac4e657d0d8338746badc/original/flick-of-my-wrist-art.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Flick of My Wrist" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Happy HAPPY Release Day! Enjoy our newest musical offering for Halloween, "Flick of My Wrist"!</p>
<p>Tells the story of a young witch who wanted to have a little too much fun and she pays the price in the end! A cautionary tale of power and greed, delivered with a surprising maelstrom of orchestral fun!</p>
<p>Available at the <a contents="Joy Store" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music">Joy Store</a> • <a contents="Amazon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Y5J2GLN/ref=dm_ws_sp_ps_dp" target="_blank">Amazon</a> • <a contents="iTunes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/flick-of-my-wrist-single/1480849475" target="_blank">iTunes</a></p>
<p>OR sign up for my newsletter and get an mp3 right in your inbox!<br>Happy Halloween!!</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/58981032019-09-19T14:10:04-04:002019-09-19T14:10:04-04:00BAM!!!<p>I'm absolutely THRILLED to announce that Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats will be making our debut performance at BAM!!!! We've seen so many wonderful shows here, it's an honor to be the one who will be on stage! :D Tickets on sale now for Saturday, November 9th: 10:30am AND 2:00pm. Click on the link below!</p>
<p><strong>Tickets on sale NOW!</strong><br><a contents="https://www.bam.org/kids/2019/lucy-kalantari-and-the-jazz-cats" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.bam.org/kids/2019/lucy-kalantari-and-the-jazz-cats" target="_blank">https://www.bam.org/kids/2019/lucy-kalantari-and-the-jazz-cats</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/58235172019-07-13T14:44:50-04:002019-07-13T14:44:50-04:00Boston, here we come!<p>Come catch us at one of our 3 Boston area shows with a fabulous trio performance featuring my littlest jazz cat, Darius on cello!</p>
<p>Tuesday, July 16th - Bergin Park - Cambridge, MA</p>
<p>Wednesday, July 17th - Manchester by the Sea Library - Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA</p>
<p>Wednesday, July 17th - Cary Memorial Library - Lexington, MA</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a contents="Click for more info on our events page." data-link-label="Shows" data-link-type="page" href="/shows"><strong>Click for more info on our events page.</strong></a> See you soon!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/22e0bfada69b05d6bf91fa06f8d3c8c022b11cfe/original/summerschedule2019-small.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/58018462019-06-24T09:54:56-04:002019-12-14T11:22:57-05:00Last sing alongs for the summer!<p>Join me for one (or all!) of my last sings for the summer. I'll be taking a summer break for some light touring and will resume in September! See you soon!</p>
<p>Monday, June 24th 11am at <a contents="LARK" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">LARK</a> <br>Thursday, June 27th 11am at <a contents="Brooklyn Farmacy &amp; Soda Fountain" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.brooklynfarmacyandsodafountain.com/">Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain</a> <br>Thursday, June 27th 3:30pm <a contents="The Wild BK" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.shop-thewild.com/" target="_blank">The Wild BK</a></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/39ba6f7c28add0605d47a155de37b5b474fb0700/original/lastsummersings.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/57109892019-04-09T14:22:14-04:002019-04-09T14:22:14-04:00Lucy Kalantari on NY1 - "Mornings on 1"<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2019/04/09/brooklyn-musician-lucy-kalantari-wins-over-kids--adults-and-grammy-awards#" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/5c00f1c1b02d9f7b6903e2d846742b0f5dc7b513/original/lucy-ny1.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a>Thrilled for this beautiful piece by NY1 covering the story about my GRAMMY win at one of my local sings. Check it out!</p>
<p><a contents="CLICK HERE!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2019/04/09/brooklyn-musician-lucy-kalantari-wins-over-kids--adults-and-grammy-awards" target="_blank">CLICK HERE!</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/56965812019-03-27T12:37:39-04:002019-03-27T12:39:13-04:00These kids can do Big BIG Things!!!<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="w8xwZDvtfQk" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/w8xwZDvtfQk/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w8xwZDvtfQk?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/56450632019-02-15T13:14:26-05:002019-02-16T21:58:56-05:00BROOKLYN FAMILIES: Celebrate with at LARK<p>Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats are basking in the joyful glow with this GRAMMY win, we want to celebrate with the community!</p>
<p>Schools are closed on Monday, so bring the kids and join me at my weekly Spanish sing-along at LARK Cafe! This one will be special as we celebrate the GRAMMY win for Best Children’s Album! Maybe some of the cats will be there? Meooww! It’s gonna be a party! </p>
<p><strong>Monday, February 18th at 11am. </strong><br>LARK 1007 Church Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11218 <br>(In the main room) <br>$10/family suggested donation <br>All ages </p>
<p><a contents="Click here for more info!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/394598971316504" target="_blank"><strong>Click here for more info!</strong></a></p>
<p>We're grateful for the Brooklyn families community and beyond!</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/56389292019-02-12T02:12:34-05:002022-05-06T02:52:15-04:00We Won a GRAMMY!!! Whaaaat?!?<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/533846ddc67131db521ce3d41413e5c02960e0e6/original/img-2579.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I'm beyond thrilled to share the news that <strong>"All the Sounds" won a GRAMMY Award for Best Children's Album</strong>!!! I'm so grateful for everyone who's been feeling the immense joy with Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats. What an incredible day! In this picture, from Left to right: my little fellow, Darius (cello and responder), Linus Wyrsch (clarinet, responder), Larry Cook (bass, responder), Rich Kulsar (drums, responder), Denise Barbarita (recording & mixing engineer) and Mr. Opera Man (Opera in Bunny Hop). </p>
<p><em><strong>Press/Periodistas: </strong>please reach out to my publicist Stephanie Mayers at Mayers Consulting: 347-735-0736 or by email, <a contents="mayersconsulting@gmail.com " data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:mayersconsulting@gmail.com%20">mayersconsulting@gmail.com </a>for interviews and info // por favor contactar mi publicista Stephanie Mayers para información y entrevistas.</em></p>
<p> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/55572882018-12-17T09:22:02-05:002022-01-28T10:16:34-05:00OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO: I Know A Little Fellow<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="bLyMzgRjPbQ" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/bLyMzgRjPbQ/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bLyMzgRjPbQ?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/55453882018-12-08T07:58:59-05:002022-05-12T07:59:36-04:00All the Sounds nominated for a GRAMMY Award!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/e32c6dab97fcb38b8eb3f7195a82a95ef469abfc/original/ats-front-cover-rgb-silverhonor.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>I'm thrilled and humbled to announce that <em>All the Sounds</em> has been nominated for <strong>Best Children's Album</strong> for the 61st GRAMMY Awards by the Recording Academy! What beautiful news! It's an absolute honor to be there with my friends and colleagues The Pop Ups, Falu, Tim Kubart and Frank & Deane.<br> </p>
<p>Congratulations to all the nominees!<br>May all the sounds keep us connected. <3 </p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.grammy.com/grammys/awards/61st-annual-grammy-awards#category-275" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/096dcc2910bea3bfccfb8bcd39dc51629cb73aa4/original/grammynomlist2018-3.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_center border_none" alt="" /></a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/55105712018-11-12T21:50:26-05:002018-11-12T21:56:54-05:00December Holiday Shows!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/f0ed20df0e70e9ae1679a6479bf6a7954c2e70b4/original/lk-holidays-albumcover-1000.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="It's the Holidays!" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Celebrate the Holidays in your community with Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats! We've got shows in <strong>New York City</strong> AND <strong>New Jersey</strong>!</p>
<p><strong>Saturday, December 1, 11am</strong><br>Just Kidding at Symphony Space<br>New York, NY<br><strong><a contents="TICKETS ON SALE NOW" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.symphonyspace.org/events/just-kidding-lucy-kalantari-and-the-jazz-cats" target="_blank">TICKETS ON SALE NOW</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Saturday, December 15, 12noon</strong><br>Family Fun Concert: Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Cats<br>Hopewell Theater<br>Hopewell, NJ<br><a contents="TICKETS ON SALE NOW" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://tickets.hopewelltheater.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=70" target="_blank"><strong>TICKETS ON SALE NOW</strong></a></p>
<p>We can't wait to see you!</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="svG7h-EFsoI" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/svG7h-EFsoI/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/svG7h-EFsoI?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/54396012018-09-22T14:41:32-04:002018-09-22T14:41:32-04:00On Billboard for Hispanic Heritage Month!<p>I'm incredibly thrilled and honored to have my songs "La Cosecha" and "Howl to the Moon" on this list for Hispanic History Month on <strong><a contents="Billboard" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/latin/8476272/best-latin-kids-music-new-releases-latin-grammy-nominees" target="_blank">Billboard</a></strong>!</p>
<p>Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats are in great company too! You'll find our good friends Hamlet and Sonia de los Santos highlighted here as well. It gave me great joy to see the Hold Tight Shine Bright Project on here, the amazing compilation (including a song by us exclusively on this album!) raising funds for RAICES.</p>
<p>Movers and shakers all around embracing our roots. <span style="display: none;"> </span><strong><a contents="Check it out!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/latin/8476272/best-latin-kids-music-new-releases-latin-grammy-nominees" target="_blank">Check it out!</a></strong></p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/latin/8476272/best-latin-kids-music-new-releases-latin-grammy-nominees" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/7d186f5e7bee3bc4379bd6468c76839a30753981/original/billboard.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/54040592018-08-28T09:10:00-04:002019-08-22T05:08:54-04:00Dapper Flapper Birthday Bash!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/40677c94a450f50475038c86f357ca98daa4f575/original/lkjc-birthday-landscape-72dpi.jpg" class="size_orig justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>My dear friends...my birthday is right around the corner! And we are going to have a mighty fine time dressing up and playing for you to celebrate! I'm thrilled to share this festive occasion with all the families I've met in this fun kids music journey. Come on out! </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Saturday, September 15th at 1:30pm </span></strong><br>ShapeShifter Lab <br>18 Whitwell Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11215 </p>
<p>Dress up the family in fine Gatsby wear to celebrate local children's artist Lucy Kalantari's birthday in style! Enjoy a live show, arts & crafts, photo booth and raffles benefiting <a contents="Dress for Success NY." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://newyork.dressforsuccess.org/" target="_blank"><strong>Dress for Success NY</strong>.</a> Faux pearls and bowties will be available...and lots of balloons! Come ready for some dapper flapper fun! </p>
<p>Advance: $10 per person // $35 per family of 4 ($8.75/ticket for any additional) <br>Door: $15 per person // $50 per family of 4 ($12.50/ticket for any additional) </p>
<p><a contents="CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3601603" target="_blank"><strong>CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS!</strong></a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/54029142018-08-27T10:08:56-04:002018-08-27T10:08:56-04:00Hold Tight, Shine Bright<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id1426119606?ls=1&app=itunes" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/743ff87e11b742c406f09fb964053a85df5162ab/original/hold-tight-square.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>I’m a Latina woman. Daughter of an immigrant who came to the United States for a better life. My mother worked hard to ensure we had opportunities she didn’t get to have as a child. </p>
<p>So when I think of all those families separated at the border, I think of all the light, the hopes and the dreams each family carries when they take that leap of faith to come to this land. Everyone has their story. Everyone comes from somewhere. </p>
<p><strong>On August 31st,</strong> we rise up together and stand together with the release of #HoldTightShineBright a new album with songs from 25 amazing family artists, we will support RAICES in the effort to #ReuniteEveryChild with their families. You can pre-order right now and get the first amazing single right away, “Shine Your Light”. </p>
<p>Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats are honored to be the 2nd track on this incredible compilation, with a brand new song, “Una Gran Familia”. This song is only available on this compilation and not on our new album.</p>
<p><a contents="CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER!!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id1426119606?ls=1&app=itunes" target="_blank"><strong>CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER!!</strong></a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/53764822018-08-15T11:06:36-04:002018-08-15T11:06:36-04:00New album: "All the Sounds" is here!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/d8b2f2c20e8a72319efdb8491e840fcb4522f69e/original/c54ee7eb-701c-475a-96cc-5e11e0250125.jpeg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />It's HEEERRRREEEE! The newest Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats full-length family album, “All the Sounds” is OUT NOW!!! Experience the sounds around us that keep us connected to each other and the world. From the sounds of summer joy, the quirky neighbors we meet, the little boy with his little cello and even the sounds of difficult darkness–ALL the sounds influence our lives and make us the people we are. Download your copy or stream on <a contents="Amazon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://a.co/8MAnpBQ" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, <a contents="iTunes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/all-the-sounds/1413029279" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a contents="Spotify" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3usxpJ5902HwZUmtG3f6xt?si=eGY1PzoRQcOrp6Wz7gn2HQ" target="_blank">Spotify</a> or at my <a contents="Joy Store" data-link-label="Joy Store" data-link-type="page" href="/joy-store" target="_self">Joy Store</a>!</p>
<p> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/53682912018-07-30T23:01:18-04:002018-07-30T23:01:18-04:00Lollapalooza 2018<p>Can <strong>YOU</strong> find Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats? <strong>CHICAGO HERE WE COME</strong> celebrating our New Album release!!</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.lollapalooza.com/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/624c66e3a7306f1aa3390bd4860546e6d68be52d/original/lollalineup2018.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_none" alt="" /></a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/53598092018-07-24T12:46:07-04:002018-07-24T12:46:07-04:00Families Belong Together: a benefit concert<p>Join us <strong>Tuesday, July 24th at 6:30pm </strong>in front of Old Stone House of Brooklyn for music and fun–all for a good cause! Raising funds for <a contents="RAICES" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.raicestexas.org/" target="_blank">RAICES</a> and the amazing local non-profit <a contents="Little Essentials" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.littleessentials.org/" target="_blank">Little Essentials</a>. Bring your picnic blankets!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/7f5cb18a51eb738ba8ae685053cf22ce7c4111aa/original/36957930-10156129315437034-3195948833548795904-o.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/53550332018-07-20T10:32:15-04:002018-07-20T10:34:33-04:00NEW ALBUM “All the Sounds” out August 3!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/d8b2f2c20e8a72319efdb8491e840fcb4522f69e/original/c54ee7eb-701c-475a-96cc-5e11e0250125.jpeg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />NEW full-length album “All the Sounds” drops in two weeks, August 3rd!!!! <br>With these 10 brand new tunes, I want you to experience the sounds around us that keeps us connected to each other and the world—the joy, the love, and even the difficult darkness – ALL the sounds that influence our lives and make us the people we are. </p>
<p>PRE-ORDER NOW ON AMAZON!!! <br><a contents="http://a.co/3ALFNNP" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://a.co/3ALFNNP" target="_blank">http://a.co/3ALFNNP</a> </p>
<p>Featuring the amazing jazz cats: Linus Wyrsch on clarinet, Larry Cook on bass and Rich Kulsar on drums. <br>And these amazing guests: Michael Irwin on trumpet, Twentythree Skidoo doing some serious rhymes, Darius Kalantari on his little cello, Erich Schoen-René on (big) cello, Adelmo Guidarelli returns as Mr. Opera Man, and kids from all around the world lending their voices for an amazing sonic hug! </p>
<p>This omg-I-can’t-take-it cute design and illustration is by Rina Miele. <br>Recorded and mixed by Denise Barbarita, MONOLisa Studios. <br>Mastered by Alan Silverman, Arf! Mastering </p>
<p>Stephanie Mayers is PR'ing and bookin' it up! </p>
<p>May all the sounds keep us connected.</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/53294102018-07-03T10:53:00-04:002018-07-03T10:53:00-04:00Summer Calendar 2018...keeps expanding!<p>We can't wait to see you at one of these shows!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/9f5cbe79c5f95293cff25d3d059dfa2029cedc01/original/summer2018-calendar-rev2.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/53180832018-06-26T11:09:18-04:002018-06-26T11:10:28-04:00Wolf Trap Theater-in-the-Woods! - THIS THURSDAY!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wolftrap.org/tickets/calendar/performance/18ctitw/0628show18.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/1ebd6dafa20eac615848a1e7652c90b467e13d28/original/wolftrapgraphic.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats - Wolf Trap Theater-in-the-Woods Thursday, June 28" /></a>We're headed south to play music for families on a stage in the middle of the woods. How cool is that? We can't wait!</p>
<p><a contents="Click here for tickets!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wolftrap.org/tickets/calendar/performance/18ctitw/0628show18.aspx" target="_blank">Click here for tickets!</a></p>
<p>See you in the woods! :)</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/52980372018-06-15T16:07:53-04:002018-06-15T16:09:28-04:00Sounds of Summer - New single!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://a.co/7lSi6yq" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/0b5d42d96c3e321c91215c89f7cc36d3225b1d5e/original/soundsofsummer-cover.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Sounds of Summer - Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>Announcing: our newest and latest single, "Sounds of Summer"!</p>
<p><em>Sounds of Summer</em> will be available on the first day of summer, June 21st. Find it on your favorite digital music platform. Check out this awesome artwork by the always wonderful Rina Miele!</p>
<p>Pre-order the single right now on <a contents="Amazon.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://a.co/7lSi6yq" target="_blank">Amazon.com</a>:<br><a contents="http://a.co/7lSi6yq" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://a.co/7lSi6yq" target="_blank">http://a.co/7lSi6yq</a></p>
<p> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/52768032018-06-05T12:09:39-04:002021-04-21T13:01:47-04:00Hopewell Theater, here we come!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://hopewelltheater.com/detail/?id=ST00000268&cat=Live+Music" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/a811446fc0466c4b8262b781e949dec99e75d587/original/hopewell.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Hopewell Theater" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats will be at Hopewell Theater Saturday, June 9th! We'll be debuting songs from our soon-to-be-released album.</p>
<p><strong>Saturday, June 9 </strong><br>11am Doors<br>12noon Show time</p>
<p><strong>Hopewell Theater</strong><br>5 S. Greenwood Ave., Hopewell, NJ 08525</p>
<p><a contents="Click here for tickets!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://hopewelltheater.com/detail/?id=ST00000268&cat=Live+Music" target="_blank"><strong>Click here for tickets!</strong></a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/52150392018-05-03T09:36:29-04:002018-05-03T09:38:32-04:00Wolf Trap Theater-in-the-Woods!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wolftrap.org/tickets/calendar/performance/18ctitw/0628show18.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/fdf9fb5496d3f4ca58c9fa27df74869cb261298a/original/wolftrap.png/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a>We're SOOOO excited to play at <a contents="Wolf Trap" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wolftrap.org/tickets/calendar/performance/18ctitw/0628show18.aspx" target="_blank"><strong>Wolf Trap</strong></a> for the first time this year!</p>
<p>Join us on <strong>Thursday, June 28 at 10:30am </strong>for a full band concert out in the woods! We'll debut a bunch of new tunes...including a very wolfy-one.</p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a contents="Tickets on sale NOW!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wolftrap.org/tickets/calendar/performance/18ctitw/0628show18.aspx" target="_blank"><strong>Tickets on sale NOW!</strong></a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/51398462018-03-21T12:11:07-04:002018-03-21T12:11:07-04:00Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats at Lollapalooza!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.lollapalooza.com/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/bfafa74783c6a257267cf4f3b28f3ca593cda738/medium/lol18-join-us-1080x1080.jpeg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Join us at Lollapalooza!" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>I'm SUPER THRILLED to announce that <strong>Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats</strong> will be singin' and swingin' at Lollapalooze in Chicago! </p>
<p>4-day tickets available now!<br><strong><a contents="Lollapalooza.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.lollapalooza.com" target="_blank">Lollapalooza.com</a></strong></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/50790352018-02-14T11:49:29-05:002018-02-14T11:49:29-05:00Nominations and competitions...<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/36d2ee6fbd59c5005c063c6d0ee68d908b7593df/original/lk-holidays-albumcover-awards.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I'm honored and humbled to share that "It's Snowing" has been nominated for an <a contents="Independent Music Award" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://independentmusicawards.com/blog/2018/02/13/16th-independent-music-awards-nominees-announced/" target="_blank">Independent Music Award</a> for Best Children's Song, and "It's the Holidays" has been nominated for Best Holiday Song!</p>
<p>Also, "My Mommy Is a Mummy" and "That's a Wrap" are semi-finalists for the <a contents="International Songwriting Competition" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="htttp://www.songwritingcompetition.com/winners" target="_blank">International Songwriting Competition</a>!</p>
<p>Wow-weee!!!</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/50124612018-01-08T10:26:50-05:002018-02-03T13:07:35-05:00Happy New Year! - That's a Wrap<p>Happy New Year everyone! Miss Nina and I wrapped up 2017 and greeted 2018 with some snapping, clapping and tapping. Check out our <a contents="live performance of "That's a Wrap" on the Miss Nina Weekly Video show on YouTube" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/YMeh4CDfEt0" target="_blank"><strong>live performance of "That's a Wrap" on the Miss Nina Weekly Video show on YouTube</strong></a>. "That's a Wrap" has been on the Kids Place Live 13 Under 13 charts! What a beautiful way to end 2017 and start a new year. I look forward to playing and singing with you throughout 2018!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YMeh4CDfEt0" width="560"></iframe></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49764282017-12-13T22:51:15-05:002020-03-13T23:35:07-04:00Sprout House Holiday Special - Featuring my music!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/d9ab351c99bebb6a50895dec250db1616e5fce70/original/snowforsnugtitle.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Sprout House put together a magical 11-minute episode with Carly, Snug & TJ for the holidays, and it features two of my songs! "It's the Holidays!" & "It's Snowing". Check out the fun, on rotation now on Universal Kids!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/a3fd288c8c0d8916d617496a869df9ea8bfcc34e/original/image003-1.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49581912017-12-01T14:33:54-05:002017-12-01T14:34:25-05:00Holiday Stocking Stuffer INSANE sale!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="Joy Store" data-link-type="page" href="/joy-store"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/92a07c4da4ab98f6ce41b10bced08cf94ff7712e/medium/24254044-144495906321601-6815598853727715328-n.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Joy Store! Lucy Kalantari Music." style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>Families and friends, it's the holidays...and I'd LOVE for you to celebrate with warm and joyful musical sounds. I'm offering a HUGE holiday sale with deep discounts on my CD's. </p>
<p><a contents="Check it out and place your order now! " data-link-label="Joy Store" data-link-type="page" href="/joy-store">Check it out and place your order now! </a>I'll sign them and send them over ASAP!</p>
<p><a contents="CLICK HERE!" data-link-label="Joy Store" data-link-type="page" href="/joy-store"><strong>CLICK HERE!</strong></a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49493482017-11-26T11:23:59-05:002017-11-26T14:58:45-05:00LA Times gives "It's the Holidays!" 3 Stars!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/la-et-ms-holiday-music-2017-htmlstory.html" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/8df2f048b55a468e090293ad42f55397a1bb757c/medium/latimescover.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="La Times: Music for every mood this holiday" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>LA Times released their 2017 Holiday music round-up, and they gave "It's the Holidays!" 3 STARS! I'm honored and humbled to be on the same list with Josh Groban and Gwen Stefanie. Just amazing. <a contents="Check it out!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/la-et-ms-holiday-music-2017-htmlstory.html" target="_blank">Check it out!</a></p>
<p>Get your holiday on with your community...you can get your copy now <a contents="right here!" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music">right here!</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49454722017-11-24T09:55:00-05:002017-11-24T09:55:16-05:00Holidays Review: Eat the Marshmallow<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/d26a2688c2d3d1b91fe04e4f972371094d5fe7c8/medium/etmlogov5.png" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Eat the Marshmallow" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Another beautiful review!</p>
<p>”Before you know it, you’ll be creating your own second line parade in your living room. I encourage you not to resist that urge!”<br>–Anouck Iyer</p>
<p><a contents="Click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.eatmarshmallow.com/listen-to-this-new-music-about-the-holidays-wokeness-and-lost-socks/" target="_blank">Click here</a> for the full article!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49454832017-11-23T09:25:00-05:002017-11-23T09:25:16-05:00I'm grateful...here and beyond!<p>I'm grateful for YOU! Happy Thanksgiving everyone! <3</p>
<p><a contents="Click here" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music" target="_blank">Click here</a> to get this track!</p>
<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KfRJN3X_O1o" width="560"></iframe></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49454002017-11-22T21:43:55-05:002021-04-03T09:10:37-04:00Holidays Review: Kids Rhythm & Rock<p><em>“</em>It’s the Holidays!<em> is the perfect start to the most wonderful time of the year.”<br>–Kids Rhythm and Rock</em></p>
<p>What a beautiful and heart-warming review. <a contents="Read away!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://kidsrhythmandrock.com/its-the-holidays-performed-by-lucy-kalantari-the-jazz-cats/" target="_blank">Read away!</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49241792017-11-08T11:37:29-05:002017-11-08T11:37:29-05:00Interview with Skeebop!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/19e373f6ca8d577fbd31676785389e99166ca72e/medium/rsz-2skeebop2.png?1510158719" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Skeebop" />Check out the interview I did with Skeebop in which I talk about intentions, motivations and joy. </p>
<p><span class="font_large">"The holidays...are not just about one day for one culture, according to Lucy Kalantari, it's that nostalgic time of year full of memory making."</span></p>
<p><a contents="https://www.skeebop.com/blog/lucy-kalantari-presents-a-family-holiday-album-for-the-holiday-season/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.skeebop.com/blog/lucy-kalantari-presents-a-family-holiday-album-for-the-holiday-season/" target="_blank">Click here to read the full interview!</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49135662017-10-31T14:36:23-04:002017-10-31T14:36:23-04:00Happy Halloween! - "My Mommy Is a Mummy" #2 on 13 Under 13!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/022470e41a8c5541fd2026f1220024d0c391320f/medium/kpl.gif?1482248016" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Kids Place Live" />Happy HAPPY Halloween dear families!</p>
<p>I'm super excited to share that my song, "My Mommy Is a Mummy" FLEW up to spot #2 on the 13 Under 13 Charts on Kids Place Live! What a sweet Halloween treat! </p>
<p>Enjoy it right here, right now and have a HAPPY HAPPY HALLOWEEN!</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ocMCQspAnro?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/49116032017-10-30T12:36:05-04:002019-05-24T08:41:19-04:00Holidays Review: New York Family <p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/94ab97c44107b490f25282791cd9b1cc788f6d76/medium/nyflogo-bluelogo.png?1509381446" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="New York Family" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />I had an interview with New York Family, and this came out of it. Super grateful! </p>
<p><span class="font_large">"You’ve never heard a Thanksgiving song quite like this one!"<br><em>- Meghan Brown, New York Family </em></span></p>
<p><a contents="Click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.newyorkfamily.com/celebrate-the-seasons-with-lucy-kalantari-the-jazz-cats-new-ep-its-the-holidays/" target="_blank">Click here</a> for the full article!</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/48969662017-10-18T14:24:15-04:002017-10-20T15:18:33-04:001 New Album. 2 Free shows. Many Costumes!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/7a4d43dbd7562dd4c1b196658907d53e204e3472/large/lucy-5.jpg?1507131891" class="size_xl justify_center border_none" alt="" /><strong><span class="font_large">The new EP,<em> It's the Holidays!</em> is here!<br>Let's get dressed up and celebrate!</span></strong></p>
<p>Come in costume, or as yourself to join Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats as they celebrate the release of <em>It’s the Holidays!–</em>the newest album commemorating the holidays between Halloween & New Year’s. </p>
<p>They will perform songs from the album including, “My Mommy Is a Mummy,” and “It’s Halloween” from her <em>Big Things</em> album. Be ready to sing, dance and get spooky! </p>
<p><span class="font_regular"><strong>Saturday, October 28th </strong><br><strong>11:00AM:</strong> McKinley Park Library - 6802 Fort Hamilton Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY <br><strong>3:00 PM:</strong> Kensington Library 4207 18th Ave, Brooklyn, NY </span></p>
<p>These shows are FREE and for all ages. </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Get your copy of </span></strong><em><strong><span class="font_large">It's the Holidays!</span></strong></em><br><a contents="Music Store" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music">Music Store</a><br><a contents="Amazon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://a.co/3ybYfjk" target="_blank">Amazon</a><br><a contents="iTunes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/its-the-holidays-ep/id1294697789" target="_blank">iTunes</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/48659482017-09-26T13:42:06-04:002017-09-26T13:44:25-04:00Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats on Sprout House!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/34988a63b70c8acdd496a9ef8d98cc24ac29144b/medium/lucy-k-1-1.jpg?1506446771" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats on Sprout House, Universal Kids" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />I've been sitting on this amazing news for a while and am finally ready to shout it out:</p>
<p><strong>HEY LOOK! WE'RE ON TEEVEE! :) </strong><br>Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats play music at <em>Sprout House</em> on Universal Kids!</p>
<p>Check out <em>Sprout House–</em>a <strong>musically-infused programming block</strong>, airing from 9am-12pm, M-F on Universal Kids. Driven by music and familiar friends, <em>Sprout House</em> is a home-base between Sprout programming and a destination for preschoolers. Kids join their hosts for songs, games, crafts, field trips, special guests and, of course, birthdays.</p>
<p>Join Carly, her puppy snug and their new friend TJ to explore and play. They're wonderful!</p>
<p>We're super thrilled and grateful to be part of this new program and know the kiddos will enjoy every moment. </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/48508112017-09-14T17:42:34-04:002017-09-14T17:58:22-04:00Big Things Thursday: Alphabet Rockers<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: BigThings@LucyKalantari.com. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/e4730c609853ab239ba49df8e23166f796e66682/medium/img-3959.png?1505424625" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Alphabet Rockers" />When I perform the song, "Big Things", I talk about how when you have these big ideas, goals and dreams you can't just go home and take a nap. "You gotta work work work work work!" When I met Kaitlin McGaw and Tommy Shepherd, Jr., I immediately took note: they are doing the work with clear intentions and sincere passion. </p>
<p>Together they form the musical duo, <a contents="The Alphabet Rockers" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://alphabetrockers.com/" target="_blank">Alphabet Rockers</a>, fearlessly addressing topics like skin color, cultural differences and self-love. They perform at schools, libraries and various stages across the country.</p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. Our intention is to create a movement where all kids stand up, speak out and feel proud of who they are. We believe that all of us impact culture. And that as children’s music makers and performers, we acknowledge the power of our words, actions, and pictures we create onstage and in music for our kids. We want to use our cultural influence to see that kids grow up with a culture of possibility - where they fearlessly love themselves and stand up for each other.</p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Last year we set out to write songs that reflected our goals of standing up for yourself, of being bold to speak out against injustice, and to model what inclusivity could look and feel like. We realized that our families were stuck on how to talk to their kids through some of the bigger topics of racism and social injustices, particularly around police brutality and murders of black men, women and children. We were feeling this gap, too. And we knew that we could create this music - we’d been testing it with songs about skin color and real talk about current injustices and how we each can change the world. We were ready to go there for families. In the Spring, we worked with kids in their classrooms to write songs around racism and empathy - and really got a chance to hear their way of talking about these issues. They are brilliant, our kids. AND they need us to invite them into these bigger expectations of how we act and live together in the world. During this process, we met with children’s music makers in four cities to talk about our intentions and seed the movement. We also dove into the dialogue with activists in racial justice, raising diverse families, raising brave girls, and raising proud black children. There was so much goodness, so much joy, so much possibility - and so much responsibility for us. </p>
<p>Our album <em>Rise Shine #Woke</em> is our commitment to this intention. It’s a continuation of this movement of families, educators, activists and KIDS who want a just and joyful world. It’s here, it’s free to stream for families, and it’s available with conversation guides for families who know and want to be allies for their kids and all kids. The music is bold, it is inclusive, and it does the job. In the song SHINE, you see a black boy claiming his beauty and power in the world - one that all of us can lift up, and be so bold as to have empathy for his path. In our song STAND UP FOR YOU, we modeled the work of checking your privilege. How do you check privilege? You first work on yourself, you ask yourself questions and figure out how to shift your patterns. You then can be of service to others - and then again, it’s asking questions before assuming you have the right tools and answers. </p>
<p>Writing and decoding our album makes it seem super complex. It is! But the music is current and easy. It’s chantable, and it’s got beats that even hip hop heads turn up LOUD in the car.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. <em>There are no limits. <br>There are no labels. <br>There’s no stopping us. <br>We’re turning tables. </em><br>– From the song, “What Are You?” - <em>Rise Shine #Woke </em></p>
<p>For real though, the barriers are everywhere. And this current government is making it worse. Everyday, it’s harder to feel safe. And with that, we’re all uncomfortable, it’s a shared experience of injustice. Being #woke means being uncomfortable and taking action. There is no spacing out and watching TV to relax when we recognize what social platitudes we are permitting in our media. What jokes we permit in our community, etc. And for raising our babies, we have to challenge ourselves to evaluate the children’s nursery rhymes we teach, to examine the “favorite” books we had as kids, to consider that our resources need updating. We need to check our nostalgia–and make sure that what we feed our kids is of service to all people. It’s a lot. And it means swimming upstream. It’s a barrier. </p>
<p>But we’ve really found, parents WANT to do good for their kids. They want their kids to be allies. They want their kids to be the ones who helped, who stood up for others, who loved beyond limits. And parents are knowing how much work we need to do on ourselves to get there. So our limits will be endless. We want everyone to love on this level with us. </p>
<p>We’re in this movement with all waking hours, with all our hearts and voices. We’ll seek out funding support to make this happen - and we hope that we continue to grow with other children’s media makers in this effort.</p>
<p>-----</p>
<p>Thank you Kaitlin and Tommy, for sharing your inspiring thoughts and giving so much to the world!</p>
<p>Find out more about Alphabet Rockers at <a contents="AlphabetRockers.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://alphabetrockers.com" target="_blank">AlphabetRockers.com</a>, sign their mailing, catch them live. You will be moved. Here's "I'm Proud" from their latest album, <em>Rise Shine #Woke</em>, available <a contents="now" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://alphabetrockers.com/shop/" target="_blank">now</a>.</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/336078806&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/48400972017-09-06T23:59:50-04:002020-07-03T05:01:22-04:00Jazz MacDonald on Miss Nina's Weekly Video Show!<p>My son Darius and I had the honor of joining Miss Nina at YouTube Space in NYC, as guests on her <a contents="Miss Nina Weekly Video Show" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/yZWweCybiGU" target="_blank">Miss Nina Weekly Video Show</a>. Check out the results! What a fun day!</p>
<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yZWweCybiGU?rel=0" width="560"></iframe></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/48250822017-08-24T22:01:30-04:002020-01-21T03:48:15-05:00August shows!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/stomp-clap-sing-lucy-central-library-plaza-082917" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/b1d3e7292db2222d7f693d43f65734e72a78a1de/large/lucy-k-3.jpg?1503626741" class="size_xl justify_center border_none" alt="Live at Brooklyn Public Library" style="margin-bottom: 15px;" /></a>You can catch Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats in Brooklyn at one of these events:</p>
<p><strong>Thursday, August 24: Pacific Library - 3pm</strong><br><a contents="https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/lucy-kalantari-jazz-cats-pacific-library-082417" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/lucy-kalantari-jazz-cats-pacific-library-082417" target="_blank">https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/lucy-kalantari-jazz-cats-pacific-library-082417</a></p>
<p><strong>Friday, August 25th: Sunset Park Library - 3pm</strong><br><a contents="https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/lucy-kalantari-jazz-cats-sunset-park-library-082517" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/lucy-kalantari-jazz-cats-sunset-park-library-082517" target="_blank">https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/lucy-kalantari-jazz-cats-sunset-park-library-082517</a></p>
<p><strong>Tuesday, August 29th: Central Library, Plaza - 11am</strong><br><a contents="https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/stomp-clap-sing-lucy-central-library-plaza-082917" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/stomp-clap-sing-lucy-central-library-plaza-082917" target="_blank">https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/stomp-clap-sing-lucy-central-library-plaza-082917</a></p>
<p>We can't wait to swing and sing with you!</p>
<p><em>Photo by Gregg Richards</em></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/47833372017-07-18T12:16:03-04:002017-07-18T12:16:03-04:00New Track: Fantástica<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/fa4523bf4c591f9b2c07be78ae6b66e8153a2bdb/medium/fantastica-smaller.png?1500393328" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />While playing all of these summer shows, we also released "Fantástica" the spanish translation for Fantastic! Now available on iTunes, Amazon and all of your favorite digital places:</p>
<p>iTunes<br><a contents="https://itun.es/i6dL5d3" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itun.es/i6dL5d3" target="_blank">https://itun.es/i6dL5d3</a></p>
<p>Amazon<br><a contents="http://a.co/eqkJo6L" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://a.co/eqkJo6L" target="_blank">http://a.co/eqkJo6L</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/47620882017-06-29T22:27:48-04:002017-06-29T22:27:48-04:00Summer on the Hudson - Riverside Park South!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/0ade9856796af21cd527abd2431a16d217e62a13/medium/soh-noyear-square-400x400.jpg?1498789609" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Summer on the Hudson - Riverside Park" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />I'm thrilled to be part of the Children's Performance Series at Riverside Park South! Yes, these means, Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats are coming to Manhattan!</p>
<p>Enjoy your fill of interactive jazz scat-along play outside by the water!</p>
<p>Thursday, July 13th at 10:00am<br>Summer on the Hudson - Riverside Park South<br>Pier i, at 70th Street<br>FREE!!</p>
<p><a contents="Click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/riverside-park-south/events/2017/07/06/summer-on-the-hudson-childrens-performance-series" target="_blank">Click here</a> for more info and the full schedule.</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/47222932017-05-25T16:56:35-04:002017-05-25T16:57:31-04:00Conservatory of Music at Purchase College <p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.purchase.edu/live/news/1438-music-alumna-wins-international-songwriting" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/c5923128334d4107c9408b28264bd7ae514ffbcf/original/purchasescreenshot.png?1495745626" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a></p>
<p>A lovely surprise greeted me earlier this week, when I was tagged on this article on Facebook: <a contents="Music Alumna Wins International Songwriting CompetitionWhat" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.purchase.edu/live/news/1438-music-alumna-wins-international-songwriting" target="_blank">Music Alumna Wins International Songwriting Competition</a></p>
<p>What a lovely acknowledgement from my alma mater! Read the entire article here!<br><a contents="http://www.purchase.edu/live/news/1438-music-alumna-wins-international-songwriting" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.purchase.edu/live/news/1438-music-alumna-wins-international-songwriting" target="_blank">http://www.purchase.edu/live/news/1438-music-alumna-wins-international-songwriting</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/47209632017-05-24T16:25:12-04:002017-05-24T16:25:12-04:00Back at P.S. 217 in Brooklyn!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/b9112aa24567a537d5b6f2dcc83578e81957cab0/medium/lloydandlucysquare.jpg?1463711234" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Lucy Kalantari and Lloyd H. Miller of the Deedle Deedle Dees" />I'm excited to be back for the Garden Concert series at P.S. 217 with Lloyd H. Miller!</p>
<p>Wednesday, May 24th, 6pm FREE CONCERT!<br>P.S. 217<br>1100 Newkirk Avenue<br>Brooklyn, New York 11230</p>
<p>Facebook invite: https://www.facebook.com/events/1163658030410165/</p>
<p>Bring your picnic blankets and dinner! </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/47123062017-05-17T13:19:56-04:002017-05-17T14:12:32-04:00"Balloon" Won the International Songwriting Contest, 2016!<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.songwritingcompetition.com/winners" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/36c1e810be68a20cb2ded334c11003615c95202a/large/balloonwinner.png?1495042091" class="size_xl justify_center border_" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/ef3db56380c2b4f433d10f7cf3dcb5ecff7689ea/medium/isc2016winner.png?1495041448" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Lucy Kalantari's " />I'm thrilled to announce that "Balloon" has won 1st place in the <a contents="International Songwriting Competition in Children's category!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.songwritingcompetition.com/winners" target="_blank">International Songwriting Competition in Children's category!</a></p>
<p>Here's to more BIG THINGS friends!</p>
<p>And stay tuned for my upcoming music video! :D </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/47109522017-05-16T14:51:18-04:002017-05-16T15:01:42-04:00Boston: Here I come!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/06e839097ed9404361a463cef3acc5607f0abfd2/medium/bostonad.png?1494960649" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Lucy Kalantari: Boston Tour" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />I'm thrilled to bring some jazz age inspired fun to the Boston area! Join me at any of these two free shows:</p>
<p><strong>Friday, May 19th • 10:30am</strong><br>Land of Nod, Natick</p>
<p><strong>Saturday, May 20th • 3:30pm • Bilingual show!</strong><br>East Boston Branch of the Boston Public Library</p>
<p>Visit my <a contents="shows page" data-link-label="Shows" data-link-type="page" href="/shows">shows page</a> for more details.</p>
<p>Spread the word on <a contents="facebook" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/LucyKalantari/photos/a.694820023890605.1073741828.694559897249951/1409138982458702/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">facebook</a>!</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/47022102017-05-09T14:42:51-04:002021-01-28T05:35:11-05:00Balloon!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/6fbaab58be6ac6f92dc5f7845d4caa81ab2c3422/medium/balloon-video.jpg?1494355311" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Balloon!" style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px;" />This past weekend, we were...up to something. :)<br><br>Stay tuned for my newest music video to my tune, "Balloon"!<br>Did I mention that it's an International Songwriting Competition finalist?! Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/46676692017-04-12T00:23:43-04:002017-04-12T00:23:43-04:00Portland & Seattle Tour!Traveling through the Northwest and making some fun musical stops!<br><br><strong>PORTLAND, OR</strong><br><em>Wednesday, April 11 at 10am - The Village Ballroom </em><br>Thrilled to be a guest at Andy's weekly show here.<br><br><em>Thursday, April 12 at 5-7pm - Mississippi Pizza</em><br>With Red Yarn, Mo Phillips and Lloyd H. Miller of the Deedle Deedle Dees! This is going to be so much fun!<br><br><strong>SEATTLE, WA</strong><br><em>Tuesday, April 18 at 5:30pm</em><br>Private concert in Woodinville, WA. Contact me if interested!<br><br><em>Friday, April 21st at 10:15am - Land of Nod</em><br>Free fun concert for families!<br><br>For more info, <a contents="see the shows page!" data-link-label="Shows" data-link-type="page" href="/shows">see the shows page!</a><br><br>I can't wait to see you!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/46607872017-04-06T14:26:24-04:002017-04-06T14:28:30-04:00Big Things Thursday: Kathy O'Connell<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" target="_blank">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/142a0fd6c92aa078d62975e13f8dbf85668abc15/medium/ss-kathy.jpg?1491499996" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Kathy O'Connell" style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px;" />Meet Kathy O'Connell: A force of nature and the energetic zest that delivers Kids Corner–the award-winning, live-broadcast radio show on WXPN, Philadelphia. Not only have I gotten the pleasure of meeting Kathy and spending time with her, but I also had the honor of being introduced by her on stage TWICE in the same year. Something that stood out to me was, not just the beautiful introduction that made me want to carry a portable Kathy in my pocket for all future shows, but the realization that when Kathy listens to music, she <em>really</em> listens. She treats each song like a best friend, learning all the ins and outs of what makes them tick. She "gets" it. She got me. But we just met! How'd she do that?<br><br>And this is just one of the many great gifts Kathy shares with the world. <br><br>Being a radio personality brings great power. And as we know, with great power comes great responsibility, and Kathy respects this responsibility while honoring her gifts and talents. She warned me that her answers were long, and I'd like to mention that I'd be more than happy to read an entire book about her!</p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. Never has a life felt so little guided by intention. I usually just kind of fall into things or react to things that fall on me. <br><br>The Marshall Chapman song “Why Can’t I Be Like Other Girls?” ends with the question “whoever told you you could be you?!” I believe kids know who they are pretty early. It’s the baggage life piles on that distract them from that core. My intention is to be the one who lets kids know “you can be you.” Where they take that becomes up to them, eventually.<br><br>My other intention is where my deficiencies as a role model arise: to make people laugh. I am the product of Carol Burnett and Soupy Sales. Working with kids in 2017 means there’s an extra responsibility to toss in some education to the entertainment, but I truly believe anyone who gets up in front of an audience has to have one intention: to entertain. I happen to do it best by being funny. I also get in trouble sometimes by being funny. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. I have a big mouth. I have always had a big mouth. My mother used to stand at the back door watching me walk home from the bus stop, talking to myself. I am in the most personal medium there is. One person talking to another person through a microphone, yet still talking to myself. </p>
<p>I am a very imperfect and unworthy role model, but I’m a great pointer. I point at science, history, books, nature, humanity…a wide variety of subjects that may reverberate with my listeners. My hope is to point at something or someone that will echo in the long term beyond a one hour radio program or interview. </p>
<p>I also point to kindie music by playing songs that express the concepts of tolerance, acceptance and individuality that are so important to me. And sometimes playing other people’s songs has gotten me into trouble.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. My biggest barrier has been closed minds. Kids’ media is not a high priority until you need it, so opening minds to both the idea of radio, public radio, and public radio for KIDS has been a big challenge. </p>
<p>Closed minds take on another form, and that's where that big mouth of mine comes in. I play songs about boys who wear pink and play with dolls. I play songs about families with all kinds of combinations of parents. I play songs that celebrate historical rabble rousers. And sometimes---but not often---I’ll get a complaint.</p>
<p>I pretty much knew who I was when I was 10 years old and lip-synched Carol Burnett records in talent shows. I got sidetracked by real life for a long time, but radio brought me back to that kid. That was where I learned I could be me. Falling into radio for kids has empowered 10 year old Kathy while I hope I’m helping empower my listeners. </p>
<p>The biggest barrier is that kids’ radio is a very small slice of the small world of kids’ entertainment. And yet it’s the most powerful entertainment force in the long run. </p>
<p>I am who I am because I turned on the TV one day in 1964 and discovered Soupy Sales. He’s the reason I have 2 Peabody Awards and anyone cares what I have to say. He took an approach to talking to kids that made me who I am. </p>
<p>Anyone working in either public broadcasting or kids’ media faces financial barriers. Finding solid financial support from WXPN’s listeners and community partners has been essential in addressing that barrier. [Editor's note: <a contents="Donate to WXPN, right here!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://donate.nprstations.org/wxpn/default" target="_blank">Donate to WXPN, right here!</a>]</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br>“It ain’t no mystery. If it’s science or history. The thing you gotta know is everything is show biz.” –Mel Brooks “The Producers” (the musical) sung by Roger De Bris<br><br><br>Thank you, Kathy, for your tireless efforts to remind kids that they can indeed be themselves. And thank you for your humor, understanding, attention and love in all you do. We all love you so much!</p>
<p>Join Kathy on Kids Corner Live, Monday through Thursdays 7-8pm. <a contents="http://kidscorner.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://kidscorner.org/" target="_blank">http://kidscorner.org</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/46407292017-03-22T10:44:44-04:002017-03-22T10:46:14-04:00"Pockets Full of Joy" LIVE! at Brooklyn Public Library, Dweck Center<p>We had such a blast at the packed Dweck Center yesterday! Here's a fun (albeit blurry) vid of of our performance of Pockets Full of Joy. Enjoy! And tomorrow....CHICAGO! :D</p><br>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-XEQWV-BzzQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/46333822017-03-16T22:06:37-04:002017-03-16T22:08:48-04:00Big Things Thursday: Our CommunityI'm breaking out of my usual Big Things Thursdays format, as this week's feature is you, it's me, it's our community. <br><br><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/970dd6e946ff38e4e955f981dc13953f02715c9a/medium/hsflogo.png?1489716362" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />INTENTION: </strong>Give to the <a contents="Hispanic Scholarship Fund" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.hsf.net/" target="_blank">Hispanic Scholarship Fund</a>.<br><br><strong>FULFILLMENT: </strong>For the month of February, I donated 100% of the funds from my Spanish sing alongs at <a contents="Lark Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">Lark Cafe</a> towards the <a contents="Hispanic Scholarship Fund" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.hsf.net/" target="_blank">Hispanic Scholarship Fund</a>. Thanks to Lark Cafe, they too donated 100% of their cut from my Spanish sing alongs. And this is where the fun began...<br><br>I also do a private weekly sing along, and the attending families spontaneously participated in this fundraising effort and handed me an envelope filled with money. <br><br>For the 3 sing-alongs I had scheduled for this event, families came and families gave. <br><br>And then the owners of Lark personally gave more. And then one of the couple's employers gave more.<br><br>In the end, the giving totaled $559.<br><br>It made me so happy to see our community come together to be part of what started out as a simple intention. Intentions have a way of bringing communities together to do big things for others.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/18b3ed7fbcffb67a33906cd06411c262be9beb8b/medium/hfvs.png?1410833449" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Hilltown Family Variety Show" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Community has been on my mind a lot lately, so I put together a playlist of music that's about <em>You, Me, Our Community.</em> I'll be Guest DJ on the Hilltown Family Variety Show this Saturday! <strong>Tune in this Saturday March 18, from 9-10am on 103.3FM WXOJ, Northampton, MA.</strong> An encore will broadcast on Sunday, (date) from 7-8am. Listen live via streaming audio at <a contents="www.ValleyFreeRadio.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ValleyFreeRadio.org" target="_blank">www.ValleyFreeRadio.org</a>, or anytime to the podcast at <a contents="www.HilltownFamilies.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.HilltownFamilies.org" target="_blank">www.HilltownFamilies.org</a> immediately following Sunday’s broadcast!<br><br>I'll have music from Lloyd H. Miller's band, The Deedle Deedle Dees, Moona Luna, Louis Prima, and many, many more. Tune in. And lets never forget the beauty of community. <p><em>Leap, and the net will appear. –John Burroughs </em><br> </p>Thank you everyone!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/46109762017-02-28T20:30:52-05:002017-02-28T20:30:52-05:00International Songwriting Competition Semi-Finalist!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/8b0bd35167c8f8335abb1728982ca4bc60164597/medium/2016-semi-finalist-500x500.png?1488331632" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="2016 International Songwriting Competition Semi-Finalist" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />I'm THRILLED to announce that my songs, "Our Garden" and "Balloon" are semi-finalists in the 2016 International Songwriting Competition! Hurray!<br><br>This is such a lovely honor and am grateful to have my songs selected. Even more grateful to be surrounded by a team who have helped make the sounds and visions in my head come to fruition. Here's to BIG THINGS, friends!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/46029412017-02-22T23:38:42-05:002022-03-16T07:50:47-04:00Big Things Thursday: Lilia Velasquez<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/e583779b9648bb632e8c499e2982a2f54d0823e6/medium/maxresdefault.jpg?1487824662" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Lilia Velasquez, immigration attorney" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Lilia Velasquez: immigration lawyer, human rights activist and professor, ready to be inducted into the California Women's Hall of Fame in March, 2017. She's often called <em>La Flama de la Justicia</em>. She always wears red. She's fierce.<br><br>Lilia believes that her work as a lawyer should not stop there. She extends her knowledge to her community as she educates immigrants about their rights, and stays active in local politics. She takes her responsibility to create change very seriously.</p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. To inform, educate, and empower the immigrant community as to their rights in this country, and to defend them to the best of my ability if they are facing deportation. Every morning I get up with a mission: to seek justice for the most vulnerable segment of our population. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Since the presidential elections, there has been tremendous fear of raids and mass deportations, and even lawful permanent residents are afraid of losing their green cards. The legal community and advocacy groups mobilized immediately by organizing “know your rights” presentations and legal clinics to advise people of their rights in case they are detained. </p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. I came to this country as an adult and the language barrier prevented me from achieving academic success during the first couple of years of college. I worked very hard to learn the language and achieved academic success in college and in law school. On the professional level, the challenges have been defending immigrants against the giant machinery of the department of homeland security, and representing people in court whose rights have been violated.</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” –Mae West </em></p>
<p>Lilia, thank you for your tireless efforts. I know you have and continue to inspire many young latino women to pursue their passion with immense dedication, because that's what it takes! </p>
<p>Lidia Velasquez practices law out of San Diego, CA. </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45926732017-02-16T22:18:11-05:002017-02-16T22:25:07-05:00Big Things Thursday: Keri Bowers<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" target="_blank">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/58df922b82fc25d7079b4f075ea2d7e4d73d4ed3/medium/keri-taylor-and-jace-on-normal-set.jpg?1487299955" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Keri Bowers and her two sons, Jace & Taylor" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Keri Bowers: artist, autism & disabilities advocate, and a powerhouse of a woman. She's also my husband's aunt.<br><br>Keri can make art out of anything she finds, with details so fine you'll keep discovering little hidden treasures each time you look at it. She's also very loud and headstrong when it comes to standing up for the rights of a child, so their needs and voices can be heard. Her work with families of autistic children has helped educate and guide them through their journey with greater ease.<br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. In a sense, intention is my intention; a conscious effort to find gratitude, purpose and meaning in what I was given in this life. I've worked in autism/disabilities advocacy, film, writing, art and single-parenting an autistic son, Taylor, and his brother, Jace for over half my life. When Taylor was born, how could I know that autism and advocacy would become the primary hallmark of my life's heart and work? Reckless in my youth, Taylor was the muse who taught me life had to take one of two courses; one of spirituality, connectivity and re-inventing dreams; or the other of sadness, guilt, fear and wanton waste.<br><br><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Over the years, I've worked with thousands of children and adults with autism and other disabilities–from advocacy, to legislation activism, creating programs, theatrical productions, speaking engagements and 4 films. 6 years ago, I co-founded an international non-profit collaborative, <em>The Art of Autism</em>. Today, we represent hundreds of artists, bloggers, poets, musicians, animators and other creatives in our collaborative, providing spaces and places to showcase their works. </p>
<p>Recently, with an "intentional" investment in creation (despite the fear of pulling it off), we provided our first live stream all-autistic panel / forum where our panel talked about autism from first-person perspectives. An outstanding success, this two-hour panel is now the starting point for many more person-first productions that will stream on demand for free all around the world. And now, in order to manifest these productions, we need to raise money to support this. <em>The Art of Autism</em>'s next phase is global outreach.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. I have two types of barriers: macro and micro. The macro barrier deals with the difficult state of the world: war, bad politics & injustices, the planet's health, etc. As an empath, these cause me more angst than a broken heart. Like many, I'm fragile in my own way. It's an on-going struggle that ebbs and flows. <br><br>The micro barriers, are the daily things: autism / family issues, my physical health, funding projects, etc. I try to overcome these with daily conscious gratitude and a reminder to keep perspective on what I DO have. This has helped guide my principles, values and actions over the years. I've made a life of grace, beauty and optimism out of what, without specific intention, would have been a very different story. I am proud of the many accomplishments I've made over my career, and especially inspired by my sons, who are now adults making their own contributions in the world with focused intention. <br><br><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“Today I shall behave as if this day will be remembered” –Dr. Seuss</em><br> </p>
<p>Keri, thank you for everything you do! I can only begin to imagine the amount of gratitude so many families feel for the work you've done. <br><br>For more information on Keri's work, you can visit <strong><a contents="http://the-art-of-autism.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://the-art-of-autism.com" target="_blank">the-art-of-autism.com</a></strong> and <strong><a contents="http://www.normalfilms.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.normalfilms.com" target="_blank">normalfilms.com</a></strong>. </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45829362017-02-09T11:25:16-05:002023-12-10T13:08:25-05:00Big Things Thursday: Rodney Whittenberg<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/722b0d379d0a9de36403eab3aec9b111cb949dea/original/rodney.jpg?1486651824" class="size_orig justify_right border_none" alt="Rodney Whittenberg" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Rodney Whittenberg: music producer, engineer, composer, sound designer and filmmaker driven to make art to build community and inspire humanitarian consciousness.<br><br>I met Rodney through his latest album, <em>We Stood Up</em>, “an audio anthology for children, produced by Lincoln Financial Foundation, that uses stories and songs to bring the ideals of freedom, opportunity and equality to life for a new generation.” With a powerful collection of poetry, songs, interviews and speeches this album educates and inspires our youth through a medium they can easily connect with.<br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours?</strong><br>A. Wow that’s a big question. My intention is to create and support others in the creation of art, (ie: music, film, dance, theater, poetry, etc.,) that is socially relevant, entertaining and sometimes performed at the highest level of musicianship or just totally sloppy, loud, in-your-face music that rocks like the loudest punk band. Sometimes I get it right like with my new CD, <em><a contents="We Stood Up" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.lfg.com/public/aboutus/lincolnfinancialfoundation/lincolnslegacy/anthology" target="_blank">We Stood Up</a>;</em> and the latest film I co-produced and scored,<em> <a contents="Portraits of ProfessionalCaregivers Their Passion Their Pain" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://caregiversfilm.com/" target="_blank">Portraits of ProfessionalCaregivers Their Passion Their Pain</a></em>. And sometimes I miss the mark completely, like in the case of my score to the b movie horror cult film <em>Return to Sleep Away Camp</em>. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. I'm the owner and founder of <a contents="Melodyvision" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.melodyvision.com/" target="_blank">Melodyvision</a>, where I use my skills as a composer, songwriter, producer, engineer, filmmaker and sound designer to allow me to work as a creative consultant and partner to my many clients. I am always looking for committed clients who have a vision, something to say, and we both feel that I can help them achieve their goals. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an individual singer songwriter, an independent filmmaker, a neo classical trio, a major corporation or a or a non-profit. With <em>We Stood Up It,</em> I was brought in as a creative consultant for Lincoln Financial Foundation. They wanted to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and the Gettysburg Address. They had a genuine, deep desire to inspire youths, in these difficult and challenging times. This project is exactly the kind of work I want to be doing. </p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. I have been so lucky. The only barriers are my own limitations. The curse of ego. Not getting out of my own way. I can be vulnerable to overthinking, or just plain fear. Fear of not only finding the truth of the moment, but trusting and being brave enough to follow that truth through to a creative outcome. Going for it makes it happen. </p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“Great art communicates before it is understood.” –T. S. Eliot</em></p>
<p>Thank you for what you do, Rodney. <em>We Stood Up </em>is a powerful work of art! May you continue to be the facilitator and driver for making meaningful art come to life.<br><br>For more information on Rodney Whittenberg, visit <a contents="www.melodyvision.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.melodyvision.com" target="_blank">www.melodyvision.com</a>. </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45801602017-02-07T13:33:41-05:002017-02-07T13:39:47-05:00Big Things on Red Tricycle!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redtri.com/best-jazz-music-for-kids/slide/2" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/6db5ce21ba73b84ee9edda4a4ff4630c4e7f6c25/medium/rt-logo-whbg.png?1486492379" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Red Tricycle" /></a>Thrilled to be on this fabulous list of <a contents="Jazz Music for Kids" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redtri.com/best-jazz-music-for-kids/slide/2" target="_blank">Jazz Music for Kids</a>, along with the wonderful JoJo & the Pinecones, Jazzy Ash and more! <br><br><em>"From lullabies to birthdays to gardening, this sweet round up is some of the best jazz music for kids around, with smooth vocals from a bygone era and upbeat jazzy fun."<br>– Amber Guetebier, Red Tricycle</em><br><br>Read on!<br><a contents="http://redtri.com/best-jazz-music-for-kids/slide/2" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redtri.com/best-jazz-music-for-kids/slide/2" target="_blank">http://redtri.com/best-jazz-music-for-kids/slide/2</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45735282017-02-02T10:18:18-05:002017-02-02T10:18:18-05:00Big Things Thursday: Kelly Brennan<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/0ac43605cfaa460f7edef10e8452df1fb0cb41cc/medium/kellyb.jpg?1486047169" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Kelly Brennan" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Kelly Brennan: a yoga & meditation teacher with a warm and nurturing approach that inspires people to awaken genuine joy within. That was MY impression of Kelly when I met her at a kids yoga class a couple years ago. My son took to Kelly immediately, which is saying a lot, as he was barely 2 years old. Her demeanor felt playful, safe and fun. As a yoga & meditation practitioner myself, I know the endless list of benefits of having this in my life. I was able to witness Kelly's sincere desire to have everyone she meets (not just the people who take her class!) to experience these benefits for life.<br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. My intention is to help people of all ages connect body, mind and breath. I hope to plant seeds of awareness and share yogic tools that can be used not only on the mat, but also in daily life. Oh and I like to do all of that in a relatively fun way! </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. I teach yoga and meditation to all, from babies to seniors. A large part of my week is spent with children in schools, studios, privately in home, at the library, outdoors. Little ones learn in playful ways with the incorporation of games, stories, songs. My classes often include lots of giggles! It’s such a joy to witness how yoga can help with focus, relaxation, confidence, self-regulation and more, across all age groups.<br><br>I’m also very aware of the energy I bring to my classes and try to lead by example. I keep up my own practices so that I can be a present and patient teacher and radiate love and joy.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. Obstacles have come in the form of injuries, competition, doors closing, trying to find my authentic voice as a teacher, and figuring out ways to best reach certain students. Teaching is a practice, just like yoga, and there are always opportunities to learn and grow. </p>
<p>Ultimately I believe that if you feel aligned with your purpose and are taking steps that feel good in your heart, life will support you on your journey.</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>"I wish that I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness, the astonishing light of your own being." -Hafiz </em></p>
<p> </p><br>This, my friends, is someone who found her voice and is using it to the fullest! It's a beautiful thing. THANK YOU Kelly for sharing it with the rest of us. <p>For more information on Kelly Brennan, visit <a contents="www.kellybrennanyoga.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.kellybrennanyoga.com" target="_blank">www.kellybrennanyoga.com</a>. </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45705752017-01-31T13:19:27-05:002017-02-01T13:47:40-05:00Spanish sing along, to benefit HSF!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/dca2ef673f134a17753ca400e8e1b4f9380aa26c/medium/image2.jpeg?1485886392" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" />I'm thrilled to announce that for the month of February, my Mondays event, <em>¡Bienvenidos! Spanish Sing Along with Lucy Kalantari!</em>, will donate 100% of the proceeds to benefit the <a contents="Hispanic Scholarship Foundation" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.hsf.net/" target="_blank">Hispanic Scholarship Fund</a>! Thanks to <a contents="LARK Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">LARK Cafe</a> for making this possible.
<p>The Hispanic Scholarship Fund empowers Latino families with the knowledge and resources to successfully complete a higher education, while providing scholarships and support services to as many exceptional Hispanic American students as possible. Learn more about HSF, at <a contents="www.hsf.net" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.hsf.net" target="_blank">www.hsf.net</a>. [Excerpt from their website.]</p>So join me for these MONDAYS in February to learn Spanish in song with your kiddies AND give to a wonderful organization:<br><strong>Monday, February 6th, 13th and 20th* </strong><br>Lark Cafe at 11am<br>1007 Church Avenue<br>Brooklyn, NY <br><br><span class="font_small">*No sing-along on February 27th!</span>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45642922017-01-25T22:37:26-05:002017-02-21T12:18:34-05:00Big Things Thursday: Dave Kinnoin<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>.</em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/9419ae0f04fc53e93c5365f730a21cbeeb24622b/medium/image003.jpg?1485401695" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Dave Kinnoin" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-right: 15px;" />Meet Dave Kinnoin: Songwriter, producer, volunteer builder (what?!?!) and a beautiful human being who seizes every opportunity he comes across to do good for the community and for the world. Whether it's helping to build homes for families in need, or by writing music to spread joy and help a child during a tumultuous time (medical, physical or emotional), he's ready to go. <br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. I do my best every day without complaint and without regret to make this a better world.</p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention?</strong><br>A. I keep a keen eye out for opportunities to be kind and generous, and I act on my ideas. When I notice someone else has good intentions, I support them. My wife, Mary, our sons, Oliver and Grady, and I are volunteer builders with <a contents="www.onesmallhouse.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.onesmallhouse.org" target="_blank">www.onesmallhouse.org</a>, volunteer songwriters and music producers with <a contents="www.songsoflove.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.songsoflove.org" target="_blank">www.songsoflove.org</a>, and we act or speak up when we see an injustice.<br><br><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them?</strong><br>A. No barriers, just challenges that I address with gusto. We work hard and plan well so we can afford to share our time and resources with others. When we make a mistake, we promptly apologize and make amends. When we do something right, we take the credit. We give others the opportunity to join us, and we join them in their noble endeavors.<br><br><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated.</strong><br><em>“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” –Edward E. Hale</em></p>
<p>What a great quote! Thank you Dave for your work, your inspiration and reminder to do good whenever we can.</p>
<p>For more information on Dave Kinnoin, visit <a contents="songwizard.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://songwizard.com/" target="_blank">songwizard.com</a>.<br><br>(Image of Dave and Mexican boy with a shirt that says “Astronaut.” Dave says, "Hey, you never know.")</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45634502017-01-25T12:49:16-05:002017-01-25T22:42:45-05:00“Fantastic” made it to #3 on Kids Place Live!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/e50706d6691a5afbae52fcc35b5b04dfe0847a2f/medium/img-5461.jpg?1485365986" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="SiriusXM Kids Place Live " />My song "Fantastic" has been on "13 Under 13" charts on SiriusXM Kids Place Live for over 5 weeks (and counting), and made it to #13 on the week of January 13th! I have YOU to thank for that. This has been a really lovely and exciting honor in my musical journey. <br><br>May we all find our voice and sing to the beat of our hearts. THANK YOU!! <3 <p>If you felt like requesting "Fantastic" throughout the week on Kids Place Live to keep it going, you can email <a contents="kidsplacelive@siriusxm.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:kidsplacelive@siriusxm.com">kidsplacelive@siriusxm.com</a> or call 866-328-2345.</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45563052017-01-19T14:21:51-05:002022-05-18T04:25:41-04:00Big Things Thursday: Elizabeth Vermilyea<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/45d272f23d51e1a08efae0d0ddc18651987c5520/medium/16117494-10211966248821634-1013132339-n.jpg?1484852793" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Elizabeth Vermilyea" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Elizabeth Vermilyea: a trauma stress specialist with the most compassionate approach and tone that can make any seed of self-doubt melt away. I met Elizabeth back when I was in college. She was a friend of a friend, and enjoyed playing folk songs and singing. I recorded her in my school studio, and remember the calm serenity that washed over us while she played. She found her voice early on, and it went beyond singing.<br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. There is a concept in Judaism called <em>Tikkun Olam</em>, put in its simplest form it means to “repair the world.” It is most definitely a Big Thing! My intention in my work is to repair the world through helping those who help others to do a good job and avoid harm. In my field of traumatic stress this is a very important task. When I train therapists and consult with agencies I do so with a view toward repairing the world by supporting those in the trenches doing healing work.</p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. I suppose I fulfill this intention whenever I formally consult or train or teach, but I also try to fulfill it when interacting with those who need direct support in the moment and have no means to obtain it. Some call it pro-bono work, but for me, it’s nothing so formal. For me, <em>tikkun olam</em> means listening to a friend of a friend in crisis and helping that person by being present, accepting, and unafraid of their crisis or of their intense emotion. It means being the secret helper in the workplace, the one people can pop in on and share a coffee and some supportive, nonjudgmental conversation. It means being a resource even when someone decides not to make use of the resource; it’s a comfort knowing the resource is available. I want people to know that they aren’t alone.<br> <br><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. Barriers exist all over the place, but mostly they exist within us. I meet barriers in myself when I think there’s only a limited, conventional way of helping. There are professional barriers, regulatory barriers and innumerable false reasons for not helping, however, when I have been willing to accept unconventional situations and show up anyway, many of those barriers fall away. Those barriers are mostly fearful thoughts that appear to be real obstacles. I’m learning to recognize them for what they are. I suppose getting older helps!<br><br><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“Perhaps all the dragons in our lives are princesses who are only waiting to see us act, just once, with beauty and courage. Perhaps everything that frightens us is, in its deepest essence, something helpless that wants our love.” <br>― Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet</em></p>
<p>Thank you Elizabeth for using your incredible compassion, patience and understanding to heal the world, one soul at a time. <br><br>For more information on Elizabeth Vermilyea's work, visit <a contents="elizabethvermilyea.org." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elizabethvermilyea.org" target="_blank">elizabethvermilyea.org.</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45476092017-01-12T14:10:35-05:002017-01-12T14:10:35-05:00Big Things Thursday: Bill Caterini<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things and should be featured, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/a1cf03bc35375bedf67cd48b1f268bb4c447a68c/medium/artworks-000182613122-4c029k-t500x500.jpg?1484248202" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Bill Caterini & Sara James: We Can Do More" />Meet Bill Caterini: artist, producer and educator. He keeps his motivations clear when releasing new projects onto the world. As a middle school teacher, his stance against bullying is strong and he takes this responsibility very seriously, educating our children of the world. He reminds us to treat people with kindness and smile, as our actions can have a profound effect on those around us. </p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. I really feel that my true intention is to reach, educate, and console people...for instance: <br>The projects that I've been working on/completed within the last 4 years concentrate on a few different areas. <br>1) Bullying - children's projects - "(Don't Be A) Bully" by E Is For Erik <a contents="www.eisforerikmusic.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.eisforerikmusic.com" target="_blank">www.eisforerikmusic.com</a> <br>2) Global Peace/environmental/world issues - "We Can Do More" by Bill Caterini/Sara James (see below!)</p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Launching into only positive message projects for all ages/topics, and being a positive example while being out in the world, whether its performing music, recording, or collaborating with other artists. I also work at a middle school in Cape May County, New Jersey (I am a NJ certified teacher w/a certificate in electronic music) and I see the daily effects of personalities and feelings, also bullying...there's a precious sensitivity that needs to be both nurtured and protected, for the youth of today. <br> <br><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. I really don't let barriers get in the way of the true importance of my projects...any barriers would actually come from politics within the music industry. I don't channel my energies into music/projects because of ulterior motives, including, but not limited to: copious amounts of money; awards; fame/press/attention... <br>These are the wrong reasons to do anything in life...it should be for the people. However, I do realize that its OK to be paid for your products/services, and there's a right way to facilitate this. Nothing is ever accomplished with greed. <br>I believe my biggest obstacles involve these types of people...greedy business types...also dirty politics...fake social media sensationalizing, and, there's always the occasional hater/basher out there. What everybody should remember is: most of these internet profiles/people actually aren't what they seem/appear to be, and that if you make a real, tangible connection (not a "virtual" connection) with a person, the effects of this can be tantamount! It's real...!</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br>There's a story I'm very partial to, especially because I live on the ocean (NJ shore): There's a cynic walking along the beach - while walking, the cynic realizes that there are hundreds of "starfish" laying along the surf, stranded in the thick sand, having washed up from the breaking waves. While walking along the beach, he happens upon a young man (or woman...open to your interpretation) who is throwing these starfish back into the ocean, one-at-a-time. There are hundreds, if not thousands, along the beach...as far as the eye can see. The cynic finally says to the young man, "why do you even bother...there's much too many washed up for it to matter...why bother saving them?" The young man turned to the cynic and said, "I realize there's a lot, and you think I'm wasting my time." As he said this, he threw another starfish into the ocean, and then said, "but it mattered to this one, and all the others that I already threw back into the ocean..."</p>
<p>Thank you Bill for reminding us how even the simplest actions can have an effect to last a lifetime! Check out Bill's inspiring song he did with Sara James, "We Can Do More" below. </p><iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/250571501&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45161522016-12-18T11:15:13-05:002020-01-15T01:46:20-05:00"Fantastic" debuted #13 on the SiriusXM Kids Place Live 13 Under 13 chart this week!!! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/022470e41a8c5541fd2026f1220024d0c391320f/original/kpl.gif?1482248016" class="size_orig justify_right border_none" alt="Kids Place Live" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Wow-weee! "Fantastic" debuted #13 on the SiriusXM Kids Place Live 13 Under 13 chart this week!!! I'm excited and honored. <br><br>Request "Fantastic" throughout the week on Kids Place Live to keep it moving up in the charts, by emailing <a contents="kidsplacelive@siriusxm.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:kidsplacelive@siriusxm.com">kidsplacelive@siriusxm.com</a> or calling 866-328-2345.<br><br>And THANK YOU!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45116952016-12-15T10:09:08-05:002016-12-15T10:09:08-05:00Big Things Thursday: Tunes for Tots and Jason Didner<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/1b8da1bbb61b85d146c558eae0a482d8f080dc45/medium/toys-for-tots.jpg?1481812696" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Jason Didner, Tunes for Tots" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />As we're deep into the holiday season, the joy of spreading joy deepens, generosity blooms and opportunities to give are multiplied by a gazillion! It's a busy time, and a beautiful time. One of these opportunities to practice generosity is presented by <a contents="Toys for Tots" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.toysfortots.org/default.aspx" target="_blank">Toys for Tots</a>, who have been around since 1947. Their mission is simple: collect toys for families who can't afford to buy gifts for their children for Christmas. We see the special bins in stores every year around this time. This went on to inspire something else...<br><br>Meet <a contents="Jason Didner" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://junglegymjam.com/Tunes-for-Tots-2016" target="_blank">Jason Didner</a>, a children's artist who teamed up with <a contents="Steve Denyes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.hullabalooband.com/home/tunes_for_tots_2016/" target="_blank">Steve Denyes</a> to do Tunes for Tots–because we know the long, long list of benefits of music in children's lives. CD donations can go to the Toys for Tots bins, or to a charity like <a contents="Happy Star Melodies" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.happystarmelodies.org/our-mission.html" target="_blank">Happy Star Melodies</a>, to give to children battling serious illnesses.<br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours?</strong><br>A. When I learned Steve was doing Tunes for Tots, his project spoke directly to my intention to make a difference in the lives of as many children as I could, starting with making it possible for kids to feel included in the holiday season when it comes to receipts gifts. The notion of being able to do greater good with the help of my audience really appealed to me. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? <br>A.</strong> When a fan orders a CD or buys one at a live show, I donate a matching copy to Toys for Tots or another charity that supplies gifts to disadvantaged children. Perhaps I can't write a big ol' check, but when my fans do this with me, we can do bigger things.<br> <br><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? <br>A. </strong>During the holiday season, my fans receive so much advertising everywhere they look, so my message has to stand out, whether through email, social media or at our live shows, Usually the mention of Tunes for Tots is met with applause. I think there's appeal at holiday time for the idea of a purchase doing some good for children in need. </p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated.</strong><br><em>"It ain't over 'til it's over." <br>- Yogi Berra (who lived in my hometown Montclair, NJ</em></p>
<p>Thank you Jason for spreading that love, joy and the healing qualities found in music. For more info on Jason's participation in Tunes for Tots, <a contents="click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://junglegymjam.com/Tunes-for-Tots-2016/" target="_blank">click here</a>. </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/45016272016-12-08T13:51:58-05:002016-12-08T22:07:55-05:00Big Things Thursday: Lisa McGuigan<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/16398a74696c5d89f7b3f2ca303b4e2488aa1a6c/medium/lisamcg.jpg?1481170335" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Lisa McGuigan and Lucy Kalantari, after a Halloween Day performance" />I admire school teachers beyond measure–it is a great responsibility and they have a direct impact on our community. In New York City, our public schools are overcrowded, underfunded and our school teachers are overworked, and yet many choose to go down this path because their intention is strong and pure.<br><br>Meet Lisa McGuigan: elementary school teacher, mom and a great friend. She's been teaching in NYC Public Schools for 10 years, and has what I deem the perfect temperament for it. Her approach is loving and warm, with a firmness that makes boundaries and expectations clear to the children she teaches. When I first met Lisa, I had a hunch that she was a great teacher. It was when I witnessed it first hand after a musical visit with her class, I thought, "Oh. Yeah. Kids NEED her. The world NEEDS her." <br><br>Teaching primarily to minority and low income families, Lisa has made a difference in many lives. She's constantly thinking of creative ways to help children through the challenges they face with language barriers and social integration.<br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. My intention is to make the world a more respectful, empathetic, and caring place to be, one class full of students at a time. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. As a teacher, I try to instill kindness, respect, empathy, and understanding in my students on a daily basis. We usually start our mornings, in the classroom, by shaking hands with one another, saying good morning, and asking how the other person is doing that day. We then share out about our weekends, the previous night, or anything that the students wish to talk about or discuss. My students practice looking one another in the eye when speaking and listening as sign of respect towards our classmates. We also try to make individual connections to what the classmate has said or is going through – teaching empathy and understanding. The students really value this time and it has helped them to become more of a family than a just a class full of students. <br> <br><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. Many times students may be disrespectful or rude to one another in class, outside of school, or be a witness to it. A lot of this behavior stems from kids being scared or nervous about a situation or they may not have been taught how to deal with the situation and they react negatively because of it.<br><br>We deal with this individually and as a class. We role-play scenarios and think about what an appropriate reaction should be. We also discuss how certain reactions and actions make us feel. Giving students coping mechanisms and skills empowers them to be able to act appropriately and respectfully. The more we work on it, the more our students will be prepared to face life with a confidence and knowledge that they can handle almost any situation.</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” ― Mahatma Gandhi</em><br><br>Thank you Lisa for preparing our children for the future. Our world depends on them. </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44963562016-12-04T22:23:38-05:002016-12-08T22:07:27-05:00Big Things Review: MrJeff2000Dad blogger Jeff Cohen wrote a pretty funny and awesome review of Big Things!<br><br>"Lucy's voice (and instrumentation) is like a gramophone playing from the past."<br><a contents="Read the full review!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://linkis.com/blogspot.com/VHwaY" target="_blank">Read the full review!</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44912042016-11-30T22:49:20-05:002016-11-30T22:51:56-05:00Big Things Thursday: Amelia Robinson<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/0275229f10fd57b3aa58cc711edf89163e2a5896/medium/postcard2-min-jpg.jpg?1480558983" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Amelia Robinson: musician, songwriter, educator, ukulele extraordinaire with a beautiful spirit. She has a fearless way of expressing herself through music, whether it's with a 500-piece bicycle bell symphony, or releasing an album with 41 beautifully diverse instruments played by people in her community. I feel like I run into Amelia everywhere I go–sometimes I really do, in person around Brooklyn, randomly. And other times, I'll run into her album cover artwork on 5th Avenue in Park Slope, or read about her in local magazines, or in emails from Lincoln Center. There's a reason for her seemingly ubiquitous presence: she offers a loving energy that inspires people to come together. What's more, she uses her super powers for good. <br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong> <br>A. My intention is to LOVE. To use music as a way to connect with others in hopes of reaching a deeper understanding of humanity. Currently, this journey has incited an onslaught of weird subconscious ideas that are looking like the backbone of the most ridiculous album I will maybe ever make.</p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. I'm making music.. a lot of it! Right now I am exploring the relationship I have with my craft by writing a song a week, practicing meditating writing, and trying to surrender to the present moment. I think it's really important to establish a healthy and sustaining ability to tap into one's creativity on a daily basis. <br> <br><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong> <br>A. 1) Writing: One of my teachers once said "the hardest part of writing is the psychological trauma of doing it". Just sitting down to start is often the hardest part. But once you do it, you've done it and that's something to be proud of! Making attainable goals has helped - like "I'm going to play three notes over and over again while staring out this window...and just see what happens". <br>2) The Unknown: Lately I've found it really challenging to be in the middle of a creative project and not know how it's going to take shape. There's pressure in our society to present a finished product that is shiny and glimmery and perfect and the reality is that things just don't pop out that way! You definitely have to separate your creative mind from your critical mind and allow for the ideas to flow before you think about how you're going to market something or package it. That's a hard space to be in for me sometimes, cuz my mind is so active. Running helps! <br>3) Decisions: If you work for yourself as I do, it's sometimes hard to not have a team of people around you to bounce ideas off of or make decisions with, so I rely heavily on close family and friends who I trust and who can guide me towards the answers I need (which often are staring me right in the face) and remind me that things take time! (That's what I get for growing up in NYC...) <br>4) Drive: There are a lot of reasons to not feel satisfied with what we have -- inside and out. It's hard to always love ourselves and trust in our abilities. Often it's because someone is telling us we need this face cream, and another is telling us our lives will not be complete without that hue of lipstick, or those beautiful suede boots. How can we feel good enough just the way we are with the gifts we were given? How can we find balances, like working to fulfill a passion while actually enjoying the ride? The key I think is to learn to love yourself–send yourself kind thoughts, and take time to do sweet things for yourself, like cook a nice meal. If you take care of yourself first, you'll be much better equipped to help others.</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated.</strong> <br><em>"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." –Picasso</em><br><br>We love you, Amelia. Thank you for doing what you do and following that passion to connect with the world. <br><br><strong>Friends, you can catch her live at her Mils Trills 7th Annual Winter Bash! January 29th at ShapeShifter Lab, Brooklyn, NY. You can find out more info about Amelia and her Mils Trills project for kids & families, and more on her websites: <a contents="www.milstrills.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.milstrills.com" target="_blank">www.milstrills.com</a> and <a contents="www.ameliarobinson.co.uk" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ameliarobinson.co.uk" target="_blank">www.ameliarobinson.co.uk</a>.</strong></p>
<p>And I will leave you with this beautifully creative video made by kids from 6-11! It's super cool!</p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oXYoYgg9Ksc" width="560"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44819812016-11-23T23:01:28-05:002016-11-23T23:28:34-05:00Big Things Thursday: Devin L. Walker<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" target="_blank">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/a4b2b5c1914dd0beffcc602e58a141bdd9d4721f/original/uncledevinshow.png?1479959977" class="size_orig justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Devin L. Walker, musician, author, activist, educator, and an incredibly BUSY and dedicated person. When we chatted about what he's been up to, I felt incredibly lazy, and when you read about it below, you'll see why. This guy is doing some stuff!</p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. I am grateful that early in life, during my college years, I was able to recognize my purpose in life. I learned it while as an active member in the student movement to end racism and discrimination for all people of color. My big intention or purpose is centered on eliminating the contradiction of Africa being the richest continent on earth in terms of natural resources; but her people (i.e., anyone of African descent living on or off the continent) are among the poorest people on earth. This unnatural state was created and is maintained by the current economic and political systems that places profits over people. Therefore, I, as one of the billions of people of African descent, have an obligation to help change this unnatural condition. This is my Big Thing or intention!</p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Currently, I use my musical skills to help provide children with universal principles of love for self and others, which is the first step toward eradicating exploitation in the world. My show is called, <em>The Uncle Devin Show®,</em> which is an interactive, musical experience for children that uses percussion instruments to cultivate their minds – a dynamic cross between Fat Albert and Schoolhouse Rock. In January, I plan on launching a music and arts organization dedicated to teaching children of color how to deal with and combat racism and other forms of bigotry. Stay tuned! <br> <br>Also, my upcoming CD, <em>Be Yourself,</em> will teach children to love themselves through fun songs such as, “No Such Thing As Good or Bad Hair,” “See Yourself in the Picture,” and “The Church Usher’s Dance.” For me, music is not an end, but a means to an end. <br> <br>Outside of music and for practically all my adult life, I have always been in an organization dedicated toward unifying and liberating Africa against exploitation and greed. I was the lead organizer against the closing of the only and last public hospital in Washington, DC (DC General Hospital) and I was a co-creator of a health care initiative entitled, “<a contents="The People Before Profits Community Healthcare Project," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.PeopleBeforeProfit.org" target="_blank">The People Before Profits Community Healthcare Project,</a>” which was modeled after and inspired by the Cuban Healthcare System. The mission of this project was to elevate ourselves as a people through education and community empowerment by creating a project that will effectively address the healthcare concerns of residents within a five-block radius of a majority African (African-American) community in Northeast, DC, using an alternative healthcare model predicated on people not profit. <br> <br>An organization I co-founded was the Pan-African Liberation Organization (1990-2006), through which I traveled to Cuba, Panama, Venezuela and Puerto Rico, organizing in solidarity with different oppressed people, as well as working with different organizations in Azania (South Africa), Guinea, Eritrea, Zimbabwe, Haiti, Ireland, El Salvador, India, and the United States. I have also worked in solidarity with the American Indian Movement - International Indian Treaty Council.<br><br>I've also written two books that serves as appeals to the black church, where I discuss practical solutions the church can take to help eliminate inequality in the world (<a contents="www.devinlwalkerbooks.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.devinlwalkerbooks.com" target="_blank">www.devinlwalkerbooks.com</a>). <br><br><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. The biggest barrier I have encountered is the lack of critical thinking by those who are victims of exploitation. Much too often, many people accept information given to them by the powers that be and they accept it uncritically. Therefore, I learned early in life that it was my responsibility to help people think critically about information that is given to them, whether it be in school, church or other areas of society. <br> <br>I have dealt with this barrier by conducting painstaking research that ultimately was published in my two books and through various organizations.</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“To educate the masses politically does not mean, cannot mean, making a political speech. What it means is to try, relentlessly and passionately, to teach the masses that everything depends on them!” – Franz Fanon, The Wretched of the Earth</em></p>
<p>Wow! Thank you, Devin for your beautiful dedication and the load of inspiration! These are truly big things. For more information on <em>The Uncle Devin Show</em>, visit <a contents="www.theuncledevinshow.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theuncledevinshow.com" target="_blank">www.theuncledevinshow.com</a>.<br><br>Check out this heart-warming video, "The Church Usher's Dance" bringing back the Soul Train with a twist and some help from the community. </p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qu2OIcyoX_E" width="560"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44812982016-11-23T14:36:13-05:002016-11-23T21:29:00-05:00"Fantastic" wins the Independent Music Award for Best Children's Music Song<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/07d43f98570d5216f9a5d83fdd829e1686571701/medium/img-5049.jpg?1479929568" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Independent Music Awards Winner, Lucy Kalantari" />And this is me with the biggest grin in the world, thanks to friend (and fellow nominee) Jeff Oster for taking this picture. <br><br>As they were about to announce the winner for Best Children's Music Song, to say that my heart was beating fast would be an understatement. It was basically starting a whole orchestra on its own!<br><br>I'm thrilled that my song, "Fantastic" won this prestigious award. And a big thanks goes out to all of IMA judges and an even bigger thanks to everyone who made the recording of this song possible: Linus, Larry, Rich, Saro, Josh, Ryan, Denise, Alan.<br><br>You are fantastic.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/6503c1c5abaa5ffa3d8fa551699a98d8ecfd5236/original/15068296-10154288755269833-6467927295165287000-o.jpg?1479954299" class="size_orig justify_none border_none" alt="IMA Ceremony: Children's Music -Song" />Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44709942016-11-17T09:53:22-05:002016-12-01T21:49:05-05:00Big Things Thursday: Steve Pullara<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If you know someone who's doing big things, let me know: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" target="_blank">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/c49c2136330107b8804441428ecd94421052477e/original/stevecopyright.jpg?1479356320" class="size_orig justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Steve Pullara, music maker, writer, producer and someone who makes everyone feel like they're family. His releases win awards left and right, as he sings and speaks of difficult topics while still keeping a beautiful uplifting spirit that can assuage any discordance. One of his albums, <em>All About Bullies...Big and Small,</em> went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Children's album. And he doesn't stop there–he also makes himself available to other artists as a mentor and advisor. <br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. My BIG THING is to give joy, reflection and a can-do inspiration from the things in life that move me to share with others. <br><br><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Through this life's talents of music, art and literature I've been achieving my mission...and it keeps growing. I want to be me. That is who I share. </p>
<p>I created a company called "Cool Beans Music and Art Studio," to create many albums and perform concerts for children, families and educators. I make music and lyrics often containing a gentle awareness or challenge, reflecting on matters such as bullying, dreaming for big things, getting along, growing-up into adults/parents with kids of their own, social awareness, songs about faith, and conversations between parents with their kids. But, I also write about silliness and fun, because zany songs are part of who I am too. </p>
<p>My audience ranges from 2-year-olds to 90-year-olds. As there has been continuous personal exploration and evolution outside of my comfort zone, I've been branching into other genre's such as Country and Gospel, while always simultaneously having a foot in the perspective of Family Music. <br><br>I've also been involved in creating and developing projects as a lead producer, writer, art director, etc. that helped build a peer community for charity albums. </p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong> <br>A. Sometimes people don't fully understand my motives or the goals of my recordings, but as a professional with a focus and gifts, our responsibility is to create music to be heard, art to be seen and lyrics to be read. As a tip, just do not take the word "No" for an answer, but instead hear that word "No" as a beginning to get a "Yes." There are biases and all kinds of politics even in Children's Music. If you have a talent with conviction, keep looking for ways to get heard and played. Trust me, God is testing you to make you stronger.<br><br><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>"Go hunting where the ducks are!" - President, Lyndon John B. Johnson</em><br><br>Thank you, Steve, for helping communities feel safe and loved. For more info on Steve and Cool Beans Music, visit <a contents="www.CoolBeansMusic.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.CoolBeansMusic.com" target="_blank">www.CoolBeansMusic.com</a>.</p>
<p>I'll leave you with one of mine and my son's favorite tunes by Steve, "The More Teeth Missing." Enjoy!<br> </p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vpwa1CvwUSE" width="560"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44679542016-11-15T13:58:47-05:002023-12-10T13:09:13-05:00On Kids' Crossroads WFDU-FM!I had a wonderful time with DJ Paul Butler at his wonderful family radio show, Kids' Crossroads on WFDU-FM. <a contents="You can find it in the archives for a couple of weeks here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://wfdu.streamrewind.com/bookmarks/listen/164651/kids-crossroads" target="_blank">You can find it in the archives for a couple of weeks here</a>. Enjoy!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/56aaec65aff0d2e42f00123e516fb75ec178bc93/original/wfdu-comp.png?1479236280" class="size_orig justify_center border_none" alt="Lucy Kalantari with Paul Butler at WFDU-FM, Teaneck, NJ" />Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44604622016-11-10T09:59:31-05:002016-11-15T12:01:02-05:00Big Things Thursday: Mr. Eco<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If there's someone you think I should highlight, email me: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/744ec5c56bacf7f09a44f48cddebea4aac787af0/medium/kids-1-st-lucia-performing.jpg?1478788516" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Mr. Eco" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Brett Edwards, aka, Mr. Eco: artist and environmental activist teaching kids all over the globe how to make sound choices and changes for the benefit of...well, ALL beings! With his love for hip-hop and wonderful word-play, he connects with his listeners while stirring enthusiasm for environmental health. <br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong> <br>A. I believe monumental changes begin with youth. My intention is to spark the mind, empowering as many youth as I can to become "EcoHeroes" around environmental issues. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Through music! Specifically school assemblies and music videos on youtube. Up to this point, I have reached 140,000+ children at in person shows and my YouTube views are 785,000+. Next step is a kids television show that is in the early stages :)</p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong> <br>A. Far too many to mention... But the main one that is a constant is belief in myself. Because if you don't believe in yourself nobody else will. I have dealt with this by truly finding out what motivates me and always focusing on the WHY. And I feel as if I am being "pulled" not "pushed" on this mission. Gotta do soul searching! Meditation rocks:)</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“He who says he can and he who says he can't, are both usually right.” <br>–Confucius</em></p>
<p>Thank you, Brett, for your incredible efforts and at spreading awareness and inspiring action to care for our beautiful planet. </p>
<p>I'll leave you with his latest music video, "Bag Monster" from his album <em>Renewable Rap</em>. For more info, check out his website, <a contents="www.mreco.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.mreco.org/" target="_blank">www.mreco.org</a>.</p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5pTeNfW19jk" width="560"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44550902016-11-06T23:59:13-05:002017-03-06T23:06:54-05:00Live Show: Stone Pony - Asbury Park, NJ!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1793528900915059/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/65c72a10f427cd38a4da5eb991c0d817a87d9097/medium/stone-pony-11-20-16-poster-11x17.png?1478492270" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a><strong>New Jersey, we're coming to you! </strong>I'm happy to announce that I'm part of this Family event at the legendary Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ! My duet performance will be sandwiched between Jason Didner & The Jungle Gym Jam and Miss Nina Meets Baze. It's gonna be a wonderful time.<br><br><a contents="Get your tickets now!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/family-concert-at-the-legendary-stone-pony-tickets-28848088409" target="_blank">Get your tickets now!</a><br>Sunday, November 20th, at 2pm<br>913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ<br><br>See you there!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44495962016-11-02T21:39:07-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things Thursday: Ants on a Log<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If there's someone you think I should highlight, email me: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/644077c9443f815f0612ff3623f479ce3e8490c1/medium/final-postcard.jpg?1478128370" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Curious: Think Outside the Pipeline!" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Julie & Anya: the quirky, playful and creative force behind Ants on a Log. They made an impactful debut in the kindie world with their first family album, <em>You Could Draw the Album Art!</em> The Philadelphia Folksong Society describes them, "The folksy duo writes music that songfully advocates for positivity, social justice, and silliness!" And they couldn't be more accurate. Julie & Anya take this responsibility of advocating social justice seriously, and wanted to do more for their community when they found out that their local oil refinery in Philly has plans to expand.</p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. Ants on a Log has received great feedback about our socially conscious and educational music, and our musical CURIOUS is a response to the demand for meaningful, progressive educational performances. We wanted to create a show that leaves the audience thinking curiously, questioning, and observing the world around them. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. CURIOUS encourages kids and their families to "think outside the pipeline" and get curious about other forms of energy beyond oil. The folky feminist musical tells the story of a 12-year-old girl who sees members of her community becoming sick due to the local oil refinery. When she hears of the refinery's plans to expand, she begins to learn more and organizes her neighborhood. </p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. Learning about the stark realities of pollution, asthma and cancer rates, and poor air quality has been difficult to sit with during this production. We have learned some very startling and discouraging statistics about Philadelphia and other cities. It has been a joyful act of hope and visioning to research the amazing alternatives to oil that are already out there and will hopefully shape our future.</p>
<p><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>"Judge each day not by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant."<br>– Robert Louis Stevenson </em><br><br>Thank you Julie & Anya for using your voice to education and move the community into action. <em>CURIOUS</em> has 3 showings in Philly on November 13th & November 19th. <strong><a contents="Get your tickets now!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1756873771252141/" target="_blank">Get your tickets now!</a></strong><br><br>I'd like to leave you with one of their lovely songs, "Rooting For the Flowers" off of their debut album, <em>You Could Draw the Album Art.</em> </p><iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/250007905&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44451762016-10-31T09:27:15-04:002021-05-17T02:28:28-04:00Happy Halloween! FREE TODAY ONLY!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/b308753f8f45cd776bf773396d27885753620f1e/medium/pumpkin.jpg?1477920376" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Darius' Pumpkin" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />My dear friends, let's celebrate Halloween in style! For today only, I'm offering a free download of It's Halloween. <strong><a contents="Click here" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music">Click here</a></strong> to head over to the music shop, and you'll see "FREE" near "It's Halloween." <br><br>Enjoy!<br><br>HAPPY HALLOWEEN!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44394912016-10-27T11:20:48-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things Thursday: Ricky Kej<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If there's someone you think I should highlight, email me: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/5067ed500ec124589af932c3ffa23cff325827cc/medium/ricky.jpg?1477581555" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Ricky Kej" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Ricky Kej: Grammy award winning composer, producer and conservationist who made an astounding project for environmental consciousness. It started with what should've been a 10-minute meeting with the Prime Minister of India. Narendra Modi invited Ricky Kej and his wife, Varsha, to simply congratulate them on their Grammy win–the first New Age nomination and win for India. An hour later, they found themselves with an idea based out of their mutual altruistic desire of reminding humanity to respect and preserve our environment. "...we need to return to a symbiotic relationship with our habitat."* Unbelievably, this album was written, recorded and produced in about 2 months, to be presented and handed out at COP 21 in Paris, December, 2015. <br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong> <br>A. My intention is to try and ensure I leave this world a better place than what it was when I entered :-)</p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. By working hard, creating awareness, spreading a message through the language of music, and searching for like minded people to do the same.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. My only barriers have been the limitations of my imagination, and my recurring laziness, which I try and overcome through constant self motivation</p>
<p>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. <br><em>“The reasonable man adapts himself to the world: the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man.” ― George Bernard Shaw</em><br><br>Thank you Ricky, for doing really BIG THINGS for our world. There are many things about this intention that moves me to my core, one thing is remembering where we are from. And just like we'd want to care for the home we live in, we must care for the home of homes. Earth. <br><br>I leave you with this wonderful song and video off of Ricky Kej's <em>Shanti Samsara</em> album, "One Song".<br> </p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Jn2jR391Dfk" width="560"></iframe><br> <p><em>Shanti Samsara</em> is currently on the Grammy ballot for Best World Music!</p><em>*Excerpt extracted from the </em>Shanti Samsara<em> companion book.</em>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44255482016-10-20T09:39:38-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things Thursday: Lloyd H. Miller<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If there's someone you think I should highlight, email me: <a contents="BigThings@LucyKalantari.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:BigThings@LucyKalantari.com">BigThings@LucyKalantari.com</a>.</em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/26211ec179d55a0f82363b18d82a83cb395caabc/medium/lloydhmiller.jpg?1476937799" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Lloyd H. Miller: musician, songwriter and performer who's passionate about history and passionate about community. For over 13 years, he's been entertaining children and their families while simultaneously teaching them wonderful pieces of history. Whether with his band the <a contents="Deedle Deedle Dees" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thedeedledeedledees" target="_blank">Deedle Deedle Dees</a> or his solo sing-alongs, he gets every single person (of any age) involved in the action. </p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? <br>A.</strong> My intention is to bring music where it's not. Where it can heal people. I'm best known to the national family music scene for doing songs based on history and these are part of this mission. Lots of kids have had very negative experiences with social studies -- and with school in general -- and I want to help right that ship in whatever small way I can. I want to get kids excited about stories from stories from history. And stories in general. Show them how stories from their own lives and those of people they know are the stuff of music and art. I'm also very concerned with the "hidden people" of our society. People with serious disabilities. Kids and adults with life-threatening illnesses. People with mental illness. Kids in low-income schools that people tend to call "failing schools." These are all groups that society at large, if we're honest, doesn't really want to deal with (even though people give lip service to helping these groups). I want to bring song to these communities -- and show them they have their own songs to sing. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? <br>A.</strong> I'm continuing to make my esoteric and combative history-themed albums although they never make any money. And I'm spending more and more time in neighborhoods, schools, and facilities where kids and adults don't get the amazing musical experiences that families with money can have.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? <br>A.</strong> Thirteen years after starting the Deedle Deedle Dees, I'm still trying to find my niche. Festivals and kids programming is aimed pretty young -- and tends to focus on upbeat, non-controversial topics. Someone recently told me that I might encounter resistance on the national level with my song about Charles Darwin. I put my head on the table and tried not to cry.<br><br><strong>Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated. </strong><br><em>“A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines. With consistency a great soul has simply nothing to do. He may as well concern himself with his shadow on the wall. Speak what you think now in hard words, and to-morrow speak what to-morrow thinks in hard words again, though it contradict every thing you said to-day. — 'Ah, so you shall be sure to be misunderstood.' — Is it so bad, then, to be misunderstood? Pythagoras was misunderstood, and Socrates, and Jesus, and Luther, and Copernicus, and Galileo, and Newton, and every pure and wise spirit that ever took flesh. To be great is to be misunderstood.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson</em></p>
<p><br>Thank you, Lloyd, for giving so much to our community. Personally, I have learned more history (than I care to admit) thanks to you. You continue to be a personal inspiration and mentor on many levels. <br><br><strong>Be sure to catch the Deedle Deedle Dees at their <a contents="CD release concert at Jalopy Theater" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://shop.jalopy.biz/product-p/sh3-102216.htm" target="_blank">CD release concert at Jalopy Theater</a> on Saturday, October 22nd!</strong><br><br>I'll leave you with one of my son's favorite Lloyd songs, "The Rocket Went Up!" off the new <a contents="Deedle Deedle Dees" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thedeedledeedledees" target="_blank">Deedle Deedle Dees</a> album, <em>Sing-a-long History, Vol II: The Rocket Went Up!</em> available now on <a contents="iTunes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/sing-long-history-vol.-ii/id1159943855" target="_blank">iTunes</a> and <a contents="CDBaby" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/thedeedledeedledees3" target="_blank">CDBaby</a></p><iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/267129021&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44247252016-10-18T14:51:15-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things nominated for The Independent Music Awards!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/96c59a4dd72389439826d5aea04bdccac77f0795/small/ima-nominee-logo-png-1452x1452.png?1476816565" class="size_s justify_right border_none" alt="Independent Music Awards Nominee" />I'm so happy to share this great news! <a contents="Big Things has been nominated for The Independent Music Awards" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://independentmusicawards.com/the-15th-independent-music-awards-nominees/" target="_blank"><em>Big Things</em> has been nominated for The Independent Music Awards</a> in THREE categories!
<p>Big Things - Children's Music Album <br>Fantastic - Children's Music Song <br>It's Halloween - Holiday Song<br><br>Hurray! They announce the winners live at Lincoln Center in NYC on November 12th. So exciting!<br>Here's to Big Things, friends!</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44194602016-10-14T14:03:40-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Review: Kid Independent<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/c9fc81bdaec583d1d9b7eada94fc93a75e2c5e09/medium/2011kidbanner-top-white.gif?1420774904" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Check out this lovely, little review on Kid Independent as I was debuting my video for Our Garden:<br><br><em>"Lucy’s style is inspirational, quirky, and filled with passion." –Indy, Kid Independent</em><br><a contents="Read the full review." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://kidindependent.com/2016/08/big-things-by-lucy-kalantari/" target="_blank">Read the full review.</a><br><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/43953552016-10-13T21:05:25-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things Thursday: Linda Nelson<p><em>#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world.</em><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/bb639c1271b82b6d4c29cff2c79338a140875748/medium/linda.jpg?1476406672" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Linda Nelson and Reggie Bailey" style="margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Linda Nelson: producer, songwriter, arranger and a very experienced music industry professional. I met Linda through The Recording Academy when I listened to her song for consideration for the next Grammy Awards. The song was a beautiful arrangement of rap and classical music, with a moving and inspiring message. When I asked more about it, I found out it was the theme song for her organization, <a contents="Inspiring Youth Dreams" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://inspiringyouthsdreams.org/" target="_blank">Inspiring Youth Dreams</a>.<br><br><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. My intention is to inspire youth to live their dreams in the music industry. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. I fulfill the intention by taking them to the Grammys and all Grammy Week events as my guest. </p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. Barriers are mostly funding the events...I do a celebrity auction to take the youths to the Grammys and all Grammy week events. </p>
<p>Check out her wonderful song, "Inspired." It really is inspiring.<br><br><iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/268571386&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe><br>For more information on Inspiring Youth Dreams, visit <a contents="inspiringyouthsdreams.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://inspiringyouthsdreams.org/" target="_blank">inspiringyouthsdreams.org</a>.</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/44061682016-10-06T09:00:00-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things Thursdays: Jon Samson<p><em>#BigThingsThursdays is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. </em></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/7d75bc444741268d0ec08d10aba56c94e95aaab3/medium/jon3dglasses.jpg?1475719055" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Meet Jon Samson, music therapist, songwriter, producer...this list can get pretty long, but I love that it ends with Professional Goofball, because this man is unafraid to embrace the silly. </p>
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours? </strong><br>A. My intention is to inspire people of all ages and to facilitate a sense of fun, creativity and well being. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention? </strong><br>A. Aside from running a music therapy practice where I work with all ages to facilitate expressive, emotional and/ or musical goals, I produce original songs which are multi-layered, so new aspects can be discovered by different folks during different stages of life. While on the surface people know me as a "children's music" artist, my real audience is the Child Archetype which resides in every single human on this planet. As we "grow up" we often lose touch with that eternally playful aspect of ourselves, and I produce my music with this part at heart. </p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them? </strong><br>A. There is still a stigma attached to "therapy". People often see it as something that is only necessary as a result of a trauma or crisis. As a music therapist, however, I offer creative tools for self care and reflection, which I consider to be preventative medicine. One of the most inspiring teachings I can share is this: The opposite of depression is.... expression. Too often, people are afraid to say what's on their mind, even from a young age... and the more we hold onto our fears and experiences without fully processing them, the heavier we feel. So one of my goals is to help people feel lighter on a more consistent basis. Let's be clear, however, life is not about feeling happy go lucky 24/7, but being authentic and fully present is something which helps us to integrate our emotions, and to be comfortable with who we are. </p>
<p><br>These are big things indeed, and we're grateful for his contribution to the world. I'll leave you with Jon's newest song and video, "Focus On ADD".<br><br><em>"I produced 'Focus On ADD' to inspire teachers and parents to encourage the innate abilities in children, instead of telling them to 'focus' on things that don't suit them. I even used the musical notes 'A-D-D' to get the point across." -Jon Samson</em></p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p1Nib_qaGXM" width="560"></iframe>
<p>For more information on Jon Samson and CoCreative Music, visit <a contents="www.cocreativemusic.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cocreativemusic.com" target="_blank">www.cocreativemusic.com</a>.</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/43843182016-09-21T23:21:32-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things Thursdays: Carmen Castillo-Barrett<em>#BigThingsThursdays is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. </em><br><br><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.kiddiescience.org/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/0f633be9a4a8f3af8bf02c4478dc4b55b4b0a784/medium/kiddiescience.jpg?1474514450" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="KiddieScience" /></a><strong>Meet Carmen Castillo-Barrett</strong>, Executive Director of the non-profit organization, <strong><a contents="KiddieScience" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.kiddiescience.org/" target="_blank">Kiddie Science</a></strong> in Brooklyn, NY. My son enjoyed summer classes with Ms Carmen at <a contents="Elk Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com" target="_blank">Elk Cafe</a> for 2 summers in a row since he was 2 1/2. The level of detail he remembers about his experience from last year, is a true testament to the dedication of Ms. Carmen's mission, "to plant the seeds of science in the hearts and minds of young children..."
<p><strong>Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours?<br>A. </strong>I want to leave a mark in this world. I want kids and grown-ups to get excited about science and appreciate its beautifully complicated simplicity. </p>
<p><strong>Q. How are you fulfilling this intention?<br>A.</strong> I teach fun, hands-on science workshops to young kids through a nonprofit I established, <strong><a contents="Kiddie Science" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.kiddiescience.org/" target="_blank">Kiddie Science</a></strong>. I hope that by working with an age group that is already naturally curious that I can plant the seed of science into the hearts and minds of young scientists. </p>
<p><strong>Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them?<br>A. </strong>As a Dominican woman in the field of science, the barriers have been plenty! I deal with them by reflecting on how far I've come, taking a deep breath, and moving forward by any means necessary.<br><br>Thank you, Ms. Carmen for doing big things in our community. And I'm proud to say that my son has been reaping the benefits of your mission for the past two summers and looks forward to more. <br><br>For more information on Kiddie Science, visit <a contents="www.kiddiescience.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.kiddiescience.org/" target="_blank">www.kiddiescience.org</a>.</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/43798532016-09-19T15:01:15-04:002016-09-19T15:01:50-04:00BIG THINGS: Parents' Choice Silver Honor Award!I'm proud to announce that <em>Big Things</em> has been awarded the Parents' Choice Silver Honor Award. It's a beautiful thing and a wonderful start to big things. :)<br><br><em>"Brooklyn based, purple-haired Lucy Kalantari plays roaring 20?s style jazz, with a fine voice that recalls both Billie Holiday and the Andrew Sisters."<br>- Lahri Bond, Parents' Choice Foundation</em><br><br><br>Read the whole review:<p><a contents="http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=34523&amp;StepNum=1&amp;award=aw" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=34523&StepNum=1&award=aw" target="_blank">http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=34523&StepNum=1&award=aw</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/43421692016-08-26T09:00:00-04:002016-09-06T14:58:08-04:00New Music Video: Our GardenIt's here, it's here! My first ever music video for the next single from <em>Big Things</em>, "Our Garden".<br>BIG thanks to all of the families who made this video possible. Especially all of the children who came over to be silly with me in the Kalantari Garden: Addie, Asa, Declan, Darius, Estelle, Pehya, Sammy and Teddy<p>And all of the kids in the fan-submitted videos: Charlotte, the Chibi Kodama band, Finn, Murph, Oliver and Teddy. <br><br>You're all superstars! And now...without further delay, "Our Garden". Enjoy! And SHARE with the world!<br> </p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2u8QgLMCd2I" width="560"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/43178872016-08-09T23:25:08-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Big Things Album Release Concert!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2593092" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/fb4be59a93254a406dd57f9e5e2d117aade98808/medium/lk-bigthings-small.jpg?1470799397" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>Families, friends, let's DO THIS!<br>Saturday, September 24th at 11am!<br>We're coming back to ShapeShifter Lab in style!<p>Come play, dance and sing to celebrate BIG THINGS with my jazz age styled music. Enjoy a full band performance with special guests, arts & crafts, pearls and balloons. Fun for the entire family!<br><br><strong>Saturday, September 24th, 11am<br>ShapeShifter Lab</strong><br>11 Whitewell Place • Brooklyn, NY 11215<br>$10 Advance // $15 Door // Children under 2 FREE<br><br><strong>PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS!</strong><br><a contents="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2593092" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2593092" target="_blank"><strong>http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2593092</strong></a></p><br><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/42968362016-07-27T10:26:08-04:002017-01-15T22:19:40-05:00Sing-along Guest: Vered<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/02bb6f4f616667fa7daac9e0bbb3e1398bd1fcf2/medium/vered.jpg?1469629150" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Vered - Baby In Tune" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Brooklyn families, catch our guest sing-along-er Vered this Friday at 11am at Lark cafe!<br><br>During this special sing-along, you'll experience joy and beauty through her songs tailored to bond with your child. <strong><a contents="Find out more information about Vered here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://babyintune.com/">Find out more information about Vered here</a></strong>, and see you Friday morning!<br><br><strong>Friday, July 29 at 11am</strong><br>Lark Cafe<br>1007 Church Avenue<br>Brooklyn, NY 11218<br>$10 per family<p><strong><a contents="http://babyintune.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://babyintune.com" target="_blank">http://babyintune.com</a></strong></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/42863012016-07-20T00:31:40-04:002020-11-12T10:24:51-05:00Let's Make A Music Video!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/2f32280cd2e690bf66bdea9b2bba0b09b69070eb/medium/img-3793.jpg?1468987686" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" />Friends, it's time to (finally) make a music video. Are you in? It's for my new song, "Our Garden". <br> <p>Let's do it! <strong>Send me a video clip of you doing any sort of gardening activity with a loved one</strong>: your child, your mother, your husband, your wife, sister, brother...you name it. Activities include watering, planting, pulling weeds, harvesting, mixing soil. You can also send me clips of your garden--even if you think it's unimpressive. Gardening requires lots of love and dedication, and to have even just one thing you're taking care of, or teaching your child to take care of it carries so much weight and value.</p>Here's a snippet of my song:<br> <iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/274489127&color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false" width="100%"></iframe><br>Email me your video clips at <a contents="lucy@afewlittlenotes.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:lucy@afewlittlenotes.com" target="_blank">lucy@afewlittlenotes.com</a><br><br>I look forward to making this happen WITH YOU!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/42833092016-07-18T11:55:31-04:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00¡Bienvenidos! Spanish Sing-Along<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/df1e7200c3df24127abb97407c8c09d96b5f79d5/medium/lucyuke-singalong.jpg?1468857221" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Sing-along with Lucy Kalantari" />Oh, it's too darn hot! But it's wonderful to have a weekly sing-along in a space with heavenly air conditioner.<br><br>Join me <strong>every Friday this summer</strong> at <a contents="Lark Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com" target="_blank">Lark Cafe</a> and learn Spanish in song with your child! Sing songs both new and familiar as we explore colors, numbers and animals. Go on a mini-adventure during story time with delightful, illustrated books in Spanish. Get down with a jam session as we dive into rhythmic fun. It's gonna be a wonderful time:<br><br><strong>Fridays, at 10am through September 2nd</strong><br>Lark Cafe <br>1007 Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY<br><strong><a contents="http://www.larkcafe.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com" target="_blank">http://www.larkcafe.com</a></strong><br>$10/Family<br><br>I look forward to seeing your smiling faces, friends!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/42347982016-06-17T11:00:00-04:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00New Single: Balloon!It's with great pride that I present to you my first single from <em>Big Things</em>, "Balloon!"<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/f57e6f01312979a99a5732b0b204310cd84b1c1b/medium/balloon-single-1000.jpg?1466143462" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" /> <br><br>This track is available to download for free right now when you sign the mailing list. If you've already signed up, then it arrived in your inbox this morning. <br><br><a contents="Click here to sign up for the newsletter and receive your very own Balloon!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://eepurl.com/VA4yb" target="_blank"><strong>Click here to sign up for the newsletter and receive your very own Balloon!</strong></a><br><br>Catch me tonight, <strong>Friday June 17th</strong> in Philly for KidChella, <strong>Saturday, June 18th</strong> at Governor's Island for Porchstomp 2016 and <strong>Tuesday, June 21st</strong> for Make Music New York in Park Slope Brooklyn. Details below!<br> <p><strong>Friday, June 17, 6pm • with the Jazz Cats </strong><br>KIDCHELLA <br><em>Smith Memorial Playground </em><br>3500 Reservoir Drive, East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA 19121 <br>RSVP: <a contents="https://www.facebook.com/events/220716284967670/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/220716284967670/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/220716284967670/</a> <br>Tickets: $10 <br><a contents="https://smithplayground.ticketleap.com/kid2016/dates/Jun-17-2016_at_0600PM&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://smithplayground.ticketleap.com/kid2016/dates/Jun-17-2016_at_0600PM" target="_blank">https://smithplayground.ticketleap.com/kid2016/dates/Jun-17-2016_at_0600PM </a></p>
<p><strong>Saturday, June 18, 2pm • Duet </strong><br>PORCH STOMP 2016 <br><em>Nolan Park, Governor's Island, NY </em><br>FREE SHOW <br>RSVP: <a contents="https://www.facebook.com/events/1019310778158075/&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1019310778158075/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/1019310778158075/ </a></p>
<p><strong>Tuesday, June 21, 4pm • Duet </strong><br>MAKE MUSIC NEW YORK 2016 <br><em>Windsor Shoes, 484 5th Ave </em><br>Park Slope, Brooklyn <br>FREE SHOW <br>RSVP: <a contents="https://www.facebook.com/events/140847029656579/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/140847029656579/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/140847029656579/</a></p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/42256182016-06-12T00:38:25-04:002016-06-12T00:38:25-04:00Next up: KidChella!!!<p>The Jazz Cats and I will be going on a road trip to Philly on Friday, June 17th for the first of 3 KidChella 2016 shows! I was thrilled to have been invited to perform, and with a new album almost out, we get to show off some of the new tunes! The fabulous Joanie Leeds will be performing right after me. It's going to be a FANTASTIC night!<br><br>Tickets on sale now:<br><a contents="https://smithplayground.ticketleap.com/kid2016/dates/Jun-17-2016_at_0600PM" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://smithplayground.ticketleap.com/kid2016/dates/Jun-17-2016_at_0600PM" target="_blank">https://smithplayground.ticketleap.com/kid2016/dates/Jun-17-2016_at_0600PM</a><br><br><strong>Friday, June 17 • 6pm</strong><br>Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse<br>3500 Reservoir Drive, East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA 19121<br> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/41890062016-05-19T22:28:31-04:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00PS 217 Garden Concert Series!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/603399469826106/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/b9112aa24567a537d5b6f2dcc83578e81957cab0/medium/lloydandlucysquare.jpg?1463711234" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Duets with Lucy Kalantari & Lloyd H. Miller - PS 217 Garden Concert Series" /></a>I'm happy to have been invited back for the PS 217 Garden Concert series! This time, I've teamed up with the fantastic <a contents="Lloyd H. Miller" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://lloydhmiller.com/" target="_blank">Lloyd H. Miller</a> to join the fun!<br><br>Bring your picnic blankets and dinner as Lloyd and I liven up the garden with folk, jazz and rock songs for the whole family. <br><br>Wednesday, May 25th, 6-7pm<br><a contents="PS 217" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://ps217brooklyn.org/" target="_blank">PS 217</a><br>1100 Newkirk Avenue (Corner of Westminster Road)<br>Brooklyn, NY <br>RSVP on Facebook:<br><a contents="https://www.facebook.com/events/603399469826106/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/603399469826106/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/603399469826106/</a><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/41146412016-03-31T14:20:03-04:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00Big BIG Things!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/265b33aaabc089fa4affa56ab7f20ae680e942a4/medium/stickers.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" /> Look at this wonderful pile of stickers designed by the fabulous <a contents="Rina Miele at HoneyDesign" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://honeydesign.com/" target="_blank">Rina Miele at HoneyDesign</a>. She did the artwork for <em>Pockets Full of Joy</em>, and is having a blast making BIG THINGS art come alive.<br><br>Want a sticker? Come on out to my sing alongs and I'm going to start spreading the love. If you haven't signed up for the mailing list, please do! You'll receive the first single from this album when it's ready!<br><br>That's right:<br><a contents="SIGN THE LUCY KALANTARI MAILING LIST AND YOU'LL RECEIVE A FREE SINGLE FROM MY NEW ALBUM AS SOON IT'S AVAILABLE" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://eepurl.com/VA4yb" target="_blank"><strong>SIGN THE LUCY KALANTARI MAILING LIST AND YOU'LL RECEIVE A FREE SINGLE FROM MY NEW ALBUM AS SOON IT'S AVAILABLE</strong></a>. <br><br>I'm packing up to head for KINDIECOMM 2016 where I'll be showcasing some of my new songs with the jazz cats! Soon, I'll announce a CD release party date for the summer!<br><br>Come on everyone, lets go make BIG beautiful THINGS happen. <br><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/40886122016-03-15T10:33:34-04:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00Spring is Coming!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://skipkid.com/breakfast-tacos-cold-brew-and-family-fun/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/0a77a0bb902f609e93195746ddd427dae6cb5264/medium/springparty.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="SkipKid’s Spring Party & Egg-stravaganza! " /></a>You smell it?! Oh yeah!!<br><br>Let's celebrate the first day of spring at <strong><a contents="SkipKid’s Spring Party &amp; Egg-stravaganza!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://skipkid.com/breakfast-tacos-cold-brew-and-family-fun/" target="_blank">SkipKid’s Spring Party & Egg-stravaganza!</a></strong> Come on out this Sunday from 10am-12noon, for a few mini sing-along sets by <strong><a contents="Daniel Palese" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.danthemusicmannyc.com/" target="_blank">Daniel Palese</a></strong>, <strong><a contents="Lavender Blues" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.lavenderbluesmusic.com/" target="_blank">Lavender Blues</a></strong> and yours truly! They'll have egg hunts, arts & crafts, food and...
<p><strong>March 20th, 10am – 12noon </strong><br><strong>Greenwood Park, South Slope Beer Garden </strong><br>555 7th Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11215 <br>(between 19th & 20th St.) <br><strong><a contents="greenwoodparkbk.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.greenwoodparkbk.com" target="_blank">greenwoodparkbk.com </a></strong><br>$5/person (children under 1, free) <br><em>Bring your own basket!</em> <br><br>Looking forward to seeing your smiling faces!<br> </p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/40590412016-02-24T22:08:07-05:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00And now...BACK TO THE STUDIO!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/eefed26f7b2ac3496301b0cac78e579789416a87/medium/12733358-1028259190546685-9009314212415390673-n.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-right: 15px;" />Oh it's happening friends....BIG THINGS are happening! <br><br>This past weekend, I went to MONOLisa Studios with my two of my jazz cats and we began recording the next album! The title of which is, you guessed it....BIG THINGS. :) I'm so excited to share all of these new songs with you. Stay in the loop and follow me on <a contents="Instagram" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.instagram.com/lucytoon/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a contents="Facebook" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/LucyKalantari/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> to catch clips of the process, or me making funny faces. <br><br>More to come....Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/39693422016-01-02T19:09:32-05:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00Let's sing...in Spanish!<strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/c08c3ffb103eecaf1927d0f280557b3facd9d348/medium/lucyuke.jpg?1451783271" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Sing along in Spanish at Juguemos a Cantar, Tuesdays at 10am!" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Happy New Year everyone!</strong><br><br>I'm thrilled to begin my Spanish sing-along at <strong><a contents="Juguemos a Cantar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.juguemos.org/events.html" target="_blank">Juguemos a Cantar</a></strong>! You and your child can learn how to speak Spanish through song! Come on out for this 4-week sing-along series in Spanish, every Tuesday at 10am for the month of January. Join us for a lovely set of spanish children’s songs both new and familiar.<br>$10/child, $2/sibling.<p>Tuesdays in January, 10am<br>Juguemos A Cantar <br>463 6th Avenue, (@10th Street)<br>Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA <br>(917) 453-1187 </p>
<p><strong><a contents="http://www.juguemos.org/events.html" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.juguemos.org/events.html" target="_blank">http://www.juguemos.org/events.html</a></strong></p>See you then!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/39681962015-12-28T21:25:19-05:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00New Year's Eve Sing-along and Countdown with Lucy Kalantari!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/302b3d7953e0caf564f3a85afc4bc229f9f5d934/medium/newyear.jpg?1451356232" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="New Year's Eve countdown at Os Cafe and Elk Cafe this week!" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Let's do a New Year's Eve countdown practice run! This week's sing-alongs will include noisemakers, hats, leis and all around celebration to (practice) greeting 2016 with A Fresh Start! :)<p><strong>Wednesday, December 30th, 10am </strong><br>OS Cafe <br>535A 6th Ave, at 14th street <br>Brooklyn <br><a contents="oscafebrooklyn.com&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://oscafebrooklyn.com" target="_blank">oscafebrooklyn.com </a><br>$10/family </p>
<p><strong>Thursday, December 31st, 10am</strong> <--note special time for New Year's Eve! <br>Elk Cafe <br>154 Prospect Park SW <br>Brooklyn <br><a contents="elkcoffee.com&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://elkcoffee.com" target="_blank">elkcoffee.com </a><br>$5/Family</p>3:22Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/39670622015-12-22T14:38:51-05:002019-12-16T11:51:46-05:00Holiday Sing-Along with Lucy Kalantari!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/2f82876d2bea6e1d74d9e0fd982fa45a2bc578e8/medium/img-1500.jpg?1450813091" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Candy cane!" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Join me this week with your most ridiculous holiday sweater for a full holiday sing-along with candy canes, holiday stamps, and whatever other corny thing I can think of. Come on over and lets do some serious in-house caroling. I'll have lyric sheets available!<p><strong>Wednesday, December 23rd, 10am </strong><br><a contents="OS Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com/" target="_blank">OS Cafe</a> <br>535A 6th Ave, at 14th street <br>Brooklyn <br><a contents="oscafebrooklyn.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com/" target="_blank">oscafebrooklyn.com</a> <br>$10/family </p>
<p><strong>Thursday, December 24th, 10am</strong> <--note special time for Christmas Eve!<br><a contents="Elk Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com/" target="_blank">Elk Cafe </a><br>154 Prospect Park SW <br>Brooklyn <br><a contents="elkcoffee.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com/" target="_blank">elkcoffee.com</a> <br>$5/Family</p>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/39585692015-12-10T10:15:54-05:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00Canto, canto, canto...en Español!<strong>It's finally happening: a sing-along in spanish!</strong><br>After being asked many times by some of you who frequent my sing-alongs, I've teamed up with the folks at <a contents="Juguemos A Cantar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.juguemos.org/" target="_blank">Juguemos A Cantar</a> in South Slope to bring a weekly sing-along in spanish for the month of January! <br>Starting, Tuesday, January 5th and every Tuesday for the month of January at 10am:<br>463 6th Avenue, at 10th Street<br>Brooklyn, NY<br>$10/child; $2/sibling<br><br>Make plans y vamos a cantar!<br><br><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.juguemos.org/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/6b94f474b110f2baae1be24ed36dbf82df2616b3/original/juguemos-web-nourl.png?1449760340" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/39259272015-11-18T21:26:34-05:002019-02-02T14:21:31-05:00November Schedule<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/bd29c568eb97f3ed72b537bcc0ecb3c36585a66d/medium/thanksgiving-2015-2-1.jpg?1447900176" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Due to weird weather and Thanksgiving, I'll be canceling my weekly sing-alongs at Elk and OS Cafe for the next couple of weeks. Oh but wait, I'm covering Lloyd's sing-along at <strong><a contents="Lark" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">Lark</a></strong> this Friday, November 20th at 10am!<br><br>I'll resume my normal sing-along schedule in December!<br>Wednesday, December 2nd, OS Cafe, 10am<br>535A 6th Avenue, Corner of 14th Street<br>Brooklyn, NY<br><strong><a contents="http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com" target="_blank">http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com</a></strong><br><br>Thursday, December 3rd, Elk Cafe, 4pm<br>153 Prospect Park, SW<br>Brooklyn, NY<br><strong><a contents="http://www.elkcoffee.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com/" target="_blank">http://www.elkcoffee.com</a></strong><br><br>I'll be back con gusto...AND holiday songs! There are a few special shows in the works, so stay tuned!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/39106602015-11-02T23:13:10-05:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00New Sing-Along: OS Cafe Wednesdays!I'm excited to start a new sing-along on Wednesdays at 10am at <a contents="OS Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com/" target="_blank">OS Cafe</a> in Park Slope, Brooklyn. It's a sweet cafe on 6th Avenue, corner of 14th street. They have a cute play space downstairs, and yummy treats upstairs. Will you join me? <br><br><strong>OS Cafe • Wednesday, 10am</strong><br>535A 6th Ave, at 14th street<br>Brooklyn<br><a contents="http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com" target="_blank">http://www.oscafebrooklyn.com</a><br>$10/Family<br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/04f59850c5d2454938017f92e8f74d89be8fc8fc/original/os-starter.png?1446523851" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/38776932015-10-01T10:01:48-04:002017-01-15T22:19:39-05:00It's Halloween with Lucy Kalantari!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/c05818a883475d477ad71428107972cc0b83c4b9/medium/lk-halloween-postcard-rgb-092815.jpg?1443707555" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="It's Halloween with Lucy Kalantari! Live at ShapeShifter Lab October 31st. Come in costume!" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />I'm excited to announce that I'll be returning to ShapeShifter Lab with my full band to celebrate my favorite holiday: HALLOWEEN!!! What's more, this event will be supported by my favorite gluten-free cookie company, <a contents="Goodie Girl Cookies" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.goodiegirlcookies.com/" target="_blank">Goodie Girl Cookies</a>! Totally 'the right amount of wrong.' <br><br>Come in costume and celebrate Halloween with the whole family! We'll be performing new tunes from my next album including, "It's Halloween!" Families can enjoy Halloween-themed beverages, dive into cauldrons of Quinoa Chocolate Chunk Goodie Girl Cookies and design magical masks. It's going to be a wonderful time!<br><br>Get your tickets now:<br><a contents="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2330184" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2330184" target="_blank">http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2330184</a><br><br><strong><span class="font_large">It’s Halloween with Lucy Kalantari!</span></strong><br><span class="font_large">Saturday, October 31st, 2015 • 10:30am - 12:30pm</span><br><span class="font_regular">ShapeShifter Lab</span><br>18 Whitwell Place, Brooklyn, NY 11215 <br>$10 Advance<br>$15 Door<br>(Free for children under 2)<br><a contents="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2330184" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2330184" target="_blank">http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2330184</a><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/38551292015-09-14T21:24:14-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00REVIEW: Swing Whistle Zing<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.swingwhistlezing.com/reviews/monday-kids-music-review-end-your-summer-jazz-style-with-jazzy-ash-lucy-kalantari/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/fb95ea4cc17e68973c883e69e62ab03af8c9ae22/medium/header-swing-only-ver-1.jpg?1442280089" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="Swing Whistle Zing" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>Just when I thought reviews for <em>Pockets</em> were over, this came trickling in and it made me smile so big, I might need further healing from wisdom teeth removal. <br><br><em>"If you like rich, classic style jazz you’ll love Lucy Kalantari’s voice. She channels the great sounds of old, with her slightly raspy melodic sound."</em><br><a contents="Read the entire review" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.swingwhistlezing.com/reviews/monday-kids-music-review-end-your-summer-jazz-style-with-jazzy-ash-lucy-kalantari/" target="_blank">Read the entire review</a>, along with a review of Jazzy Ash's fantastic album, Bon Voyage.Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/37835352015-07-19T16:43:45-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00Hilltown Family Variety Show: Awaken Joy episode!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/18b3ed7fbcffb67a33906cd06411c262be9beb8b/original/hfvs.png?1410833449" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I loved doing this radio show so much and delivering a mighty playlist of joyful songs to the masses. <br>Missed it? You can stream it now: <a contents="https://hilltownfamilies.wordpress.com/2015/07/19/hfvs-219/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://hilltownfamilies.wordpress.com/2015/07/19/hfvs-219/" target="_blank">https://hilltownfamilies.wordpress.com/2015/07/19/hfvs-219/</a><br><br>Along with some big names, I included some great indie artists and friends.<br><br><strong>Brady Rymer & The Little Band That Could</strong> – “Tomorrow’s People” [Just Say Hi]<br>Brady's Grammy-nominated album is bundles of fun. <br><a contents="BradyRymer.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.bradyrymer.com/" target="_blank">BradyRymer.com</a><br><br><strong>Gypsy Moon </strong>– “Life’s A Beach” [Single]<br>Gypsy Moon is gearing up to release a full album later this year. In the meantime, you can enjoy this sweet single.<br><a contents="GypsyMoonDuet.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.gypsymoonduet.com/" target="_blank">GypsyMoonDuet.com</a><br><br><strong>Jazzy Ash</strong> – “Heebie Jeebies” [Bon Voyage]<br>Jazzy Ash plays New Orleans Jazz for kids! How cool is that? And her new album <em>Bon Voyage</em> is scheduled for release on July 28th. <br><a contents="JazzyAsh.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.JazzyAsh.com" target="_blank">JazzyAsh.com</a><br><br><strong>Lisa Brigantino</strong> – “I Gotta Find Me Something” [Wonder Wheel]<br>Lisa is an incredible guitar player and fantastic performer based in Brooklyn.<br><a contents="LisaBrigantino.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.LisaBrigantino.com" target="_blank">LisaBrigantino.com</a><br><br><strong>Martha Reich</strong> – “I’d Rather Be Surprised” [Peace Harvest]<br>Martha has a sweet way of delivering a sense of wonder with this song. Check out more of her beautiful releases!<br><a contents="MarthaReich.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.marthareich.com/" target="_blank">MarthaReich.com</a><br><br><strong>Mister G</strong> – “Ratones” [ABC Fiesta]<br>A favorite in our house, Mister G has a few bilingual albums in his pocket. The newest, <em>Los Animales</em> was just released this summer. Check it out!<br><a contents="MisterGsongs.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.mistergsongs.com" target="_blank">MisterGsongs.com</a><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/37767402015-07-13T23:08:06-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00Guest DJ on Hilltown Family Variety Show!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/18b3ed7fbcffb67a33906cd06411c262be9beb8b/original/hfvs.png?1410833449" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Guess what? I'll be ON THE RADIO! That's right, I'll be Guest DJing the Hilltown Family Variety Show this Saturday, July 18th at 9am. So tune in to 103.3FM WXOJ (Northampton, MA) for an hour-long, joy-themed show with yours truly. An encore will air Sunday, July 19th from 7-8am.<br><br>Not in the area? You can tune-in online at: <a contents="http://valleyfreeradio.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://valleyfreeradio.org" target="_blank">http://valleyfreeradio.org</a>. <br><br><br><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/37696542015-07-08T01:07:50-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00Friday, July 10th at LARK in Brooklyn!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redyarnproductions.com/event/brooklyn-ny-2/?instance_id=84" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/f54cb70ef843e7237054b30c7ce6c525d75c32eb/medium/11539858-795487100566168-1327207819-o-copy.jpg?1436331869" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>This Friday's <a contents="LARK" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">LARK</a> sing-along will delight you with a double-feature! Joining me all the way from Portland, Oregon will be <a contents="Red Yarn" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redyarnproductions.com/event/brooklyn-ny-2/?instance_id=84">Red Yarn</a>, doing a wonderful show with music and puppetry. <a contents="Click here for more info about Red Yarn" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redyarnproductions.com/event/brooklyn-ny-2/?instance_id=84" target="_blank">Click here for more info about Red Yarn</a>!<br><br>Friday, July 10th<br><a contents="LARK Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">LARK Cafe</a><br>1007 Church Avenue, Brooklyn NY <br>10:00-11:15am<br>$10/family (suggested donation)<br><br>Check out this FANTASTIC video by Red Yarn!<br><br>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p6Svp7nfT_E" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/37679902015-07-06T22:37:49-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00Announcing: New Summer Sing-Along at Lark Cafe!Let me fill your summer with music and come to one of my sing-alongs! From now through Labor Day, I'll be filling in for <a contents="Lloyd H. Miller's" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://lloydhmiller.com/" target="_blank">Lloyd H. Miller's</a> Friday morning sing-along at 10am at <a contents="LARK Cafe in Brooklyn!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">LARK Cafe in Brooklyn!</a> And you'll still find me on Thursday afternoons at <a contents="ELK" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com/" target="_blank">ELK</a> at 4pm. Come on by say hello, and let's sing!<br><br>Thursdays, 4pm – <a contents="Elk Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com/" target="_blank">ELK Cafe</a> – 154 Prospect Park SW, Brooklyn, NY<br>Fridays, 10am – <a contents="LARK Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://larkcafe.com" target="_blank">LARK Cafe</a> – 1007 Church Avenue, Brooklyn NY<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/b40b7a2d079cb82a297df003f9175c7c98261309/original/2singalongs-500.png?1436236318" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/37353112015-05-27T15:40:00-04:002023-12-10T14:02:21-05:00Mention: Ditmas Park Blog!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://ditmasparkcorner.com/blog/events/join-your-family-friends-for-a-free-outdoors-concert-from-the-lucy-kalantari-band-at-ps-217-tomorrow-may-28" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/e26c29908021cd7ae5dfe03074f2214a70c46137/original/ditmas.jpg?1433879008" class="size_orig justify_right border_none" alt="Ditmas Park Corner" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" /></a>So sweet to be mentioned on the Ditmas Park blog for my show at P.S. 217. <a contents="Click here to check it out!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://ditmasparkcorner.com/blog/events/join-your-family-friends-for-a-free-outdoors-concert-from-the-lucy-kalantari-band-at-ps-217-tomorrow-may-28" target="_blank">Click here to check it out!</a><br><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/37113542015-05-20T23:28:09-04:002015-08-31T08:30:49-04:00Now Booking: Birthday Parties & Events!Book your next event with me and I promise to deliver elegant silliness. :)<br><br>Birthday parties, gallery and store openings, more birthday parties...<br><br><a contents="Contact me now" data-link-label="Contact" data-link-type="page" href="/contact">Click here to contact me</a> and lets get the party started!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/37096202015-05-14T22:39:37-04:002015-05-14T22:51:32-04:00Video: "The Only Thing" Live While I'm getting ready for <a contents="my next big show" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://minimusicmondays.ticketleap.com/lucy-kalantari-spring-2015/" target="_blank">my next big show</a>, I'm sitting hear reminiscing all the fun we had at the Family Valentine show at ShapeShifter Lab in February with my pal <a contents="Jon Samson" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cocreativemusic.com/" target="_blank">Jon Samson</a>. Here's a video of a live performance of "The Only Thing," featuring <a contents="Linus Wyrsch" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.linusmusic.com/" target="_blank">Linus Wyrsch</a> on Clarinet, <a contents="Larry Cook" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larrycookmusic.com/bio/" target="_blank">Larry Cook</a> on bass, <a contents="Rich Kulsar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.richkulsar.com/" target="_blank">Rich Kulsar</a> on drums and <a contents="Rorie Kelly" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.roriekelly.com/" target="_blank">Rorie Kelly</a> on background vocals. <br><br>Oh, and introducing <a contents="MY BRAND NEW YOUTUBE CHANNEL" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://youtube.com/LucyKalantariMusic" target="_blank">MY BRAND NEW YOUTUBE CHANNEL</a>!!! Yay!<br><a contents="http://youtube.com/LucyKalantariMusic" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://youtube.com/LucyKalantariMusic" target="_blank">http://youtube.com/LucyKalantariMusic</a><br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="xpgp1Q4JYWQ" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/xpgp1Q4JYWQ/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xpgp1Q4JYWQ?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/36386422015-04-02T17:46:09-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00Pockets Award & Review: Parents' Choice Award<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=33197&StepNum=1&award=aw" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/13e50ac9045201ff30cb4c1f211bff15c86d4b32/medium/parentschoice.jpg?1428010618" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a><br>I'm so thrilled to announce that <em>Pockets Full of Joy </em>is a winner of a Parents' Choice Silver Honor Award! I got a super sweet review written by Lahri Bond accompanying this award. I'm totally beaming! Thank you for letting me spread joy!<br><br>"...you can just about touch the joy she sings about."<br><a contents="Read Full Article" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=33197&StepNum=1&award=aw" target="_blank">Read Full Article</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/35964572015-03-14T11:30:00-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00Review: Kids Can Groove<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://kidscangroove.com/2015/01/21/check-this-out-pockets-full-of-joy-lucy-kalantari/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/98eb4a97054f6e86ae52ea87ae18970de30d7b35/medium/screen-shot-2015-03-12-at-23-23-13.png?1426217054" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>When I read <a contents="this review" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://kidscangroove.com/2015/01/21/check-this-out-pockets-full-of-joy-lucy-kalantari/" target="_blank">this review</a>, I cried. The feeling I get when someone connects so deeply with my music is truly indescribable. Many, many thanks to the fantastic Rebecca for this beautifully written review.<br><br><em>"Meet Lucy Kalantari, a New York-based singer-songwriter who has a dazzling voice reminiscent of notables like Bessie Smith, Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald." –Rebecca Yorn Allison</em><br><a contents="Full Article" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://kidscangroove.com/2015/01/21/check-this-out-pockets-full-of-joy-lucy-kalantari/" target="_blank">Full Article</a><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/35963762015-03-13T14:10:00-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00Weekly Sing-Along at Elk!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com/news/2015/2/19/sing-along-with-lucy-kalantari" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/56cb1031297d7710d0d70e0a1d64e53679973280/original/elkflyer-500.jpg?1426215970" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a><br>I'm a frequent visitor and customer at my local <a contents="Lark&nbsp;Cafe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkcafe.com/" target="_blank">Lark Cafe</a> with my son. It's a special sort of place, as it was made by parents for parents. There's an extra room where kids can play, and they hold exciting activities for kids like <a contents="Construction Kids!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.constructionkids.com/" target="_blank">Construction Kids!</a> classes (my son, LOVES these!) and a bunch of weekly sing-alongs. Our favorite sing-along is <a contents="Lloyd's" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://lloydhmiller.com/" target="_blank">Lloyd's</a> on Friday's. Occasionally, I cover Lloyd's sing-along if he can't be there and boy, oh boy, is it fun.<br><br>So when Lark owner Kari Browne opened their sister cafe, <a contents="Elk" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elkcoffee.com/news/2015/2/19/sing-along-with-lucy-kalantari" target="_blank">Elk</a>, and asked me to start my own weekly sing-along I was more than happy to accept. This week, <a contents="Red Tricycle" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redtri.com/new-york/elk-a-new-cafe-steps-from-prospect-park/" target="_blank">Red Tricycle</a>, <a contents="A Child Grows in Brooklyn" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://achildgrows.com/blog/2015/03/weekday-events-brooklyn-nyc-march-9th-12th/" target="_blank">A Child Grows in Brooklyn</a> AND <a contents="Kensington BK" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://kensingtonbk.com/events/things-to-do-in-kensington-this-week" target="_blank">Kensington BK</a> mentioned my performance, making this past Thursday's event PACKED! What a fantastic time!<br><br>Thursdays at 4pm. Come by and say hello. <br>ELK | 154 PROSPECT PARK SW BROOKLYN 11218<br><br>http://www.elkcoffee.com/news/2015/2/19/sing-along-with-lucy-kalantariLucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/35959182015-03-12T22:39:34-04:002020-06-07T06:57:21-04:00I'm going to Jersey!<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://minimusicmondays.ticketleap.com/lucy-kalantari-spring-2015/dates/May-18-2015_at_0400PM" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/842106b369f5e7945fe17ed4c06fefcb394eb6dd/medium/maxwells.jpg?1426213876" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>What's that on my show calendar, you ask? I'll be performing with my full band in Hoboken, NJ! <br><br>I'm delighted to be closing out the fantastic <a contents="Mini Music Monday's" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://minimusicmondays.ticketleap.com/" target="_blank">Mini Music Monday's</a> series at Maxwell's for the season. They've been hosting a super sweet kids' concert series with wonderful artists each week. I'm honored to be included among them.<br><br><a contents="Get your tickets" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://minimusicmondays.ticketleap.com/lucy-kalantari-spring-2015/dates/May-18-2015_at_0400PM" target="_blank">Get your tickets</a>, mark your calendars and get ready for some ukin' fun!<br><br><a contents="http://minimusicmondays.ticketleap.com/lucy-kalantari-spring-2015/details" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://minimusicmondays.ticketleap.com/lucy-kalantari-spring-2015/details">http://minimusicmondays.ticketleap.com/lucy-kalantari-spring-2015/details</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/35903282015-03-11T00:08:16-04:002017-01-15T22:19:38-05:00International Songwriting Competition Semi-Finalist!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/64c6538d56e650e9b6becb0cbf989dd5b40837bc/small/isc-semifinalist.jpg?1426046853" class="size_s justify_right border_none" alt="International Songwriting Competition 2014 Semi-Finalist!" />So pleased to share that my songs, "<a contents="Pockets Full of Joy" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music">Pockets Full of Joy</a>" AND "<a contents="Betta'" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music">Betta'</a>" made it to the semi-finalist list for the International Songwriting Competition! How cool is that?! I get to sport this nifty little badge. :)Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/34570322015-01-08T00:22:07-05:002017-02-21T12:19:27-05:00Love & Joy: A Family Valentine<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1128853" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/08b6f7ae819a140df929315d0835c93c14009eac/large/loveandjoy-fb03-20140102.jpg?1420693764" class="size_l justify_center border_none" alt="" /></a><br>I'm THRILLED to announce that I'll be double-billing a show with fantastic children's artist <a contents="Jon Samson" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.CoCreativeMusic.com" target="_blank">Jon Samson</a> at ShapeShifter Lab in Brooklyn, NY! I'll be performing with a full band–something I haven't done in way too many years and it tickles me silly.<br><br><strong><span class="font_large"><span class="font_regular">Sunday, February 15, 11:00am</span></span></strong><br><strong>ShapeShifter Lab</strong><br>18 Whitwell Place, Brooklyn, NY 11215 <br>$10 advance | $15 door | children under 2 FREE<br>Tickets: <a contents="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1128853" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1128853" target="_blank">http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1128853</a><br><br>Warm up this Valentine’s Day weekend with the family by celebrating Love & Joy with music from Jon Samson and Lucy Kalantari. Enjoy two rare and enchanting performances featuring live bands. A fun-filled event for all ages. <br><br>ShapeShifter Lab is a large, open space perfect for listeners of all ages to enjoy the fun sounds of these two dynamic performances while dancing about. Enjoy hot cocoa, valentine’s treats and a chance to win an autographed ukulele! Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/34363202014-12-24T22:00:23-05:002016-02-07T20:29:11-05:00Best Kids’ Songs of 2014: Playlist<div style="float:right; margin-left:15px;"><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://embed.spotify.com/?uri=spotify:user:owtk:playlist:49HK8Qc0Sfkh7kiHk83Yi0" width="300"></iframe></div>What a year! I feel so honored to have landed a spot on this play list. This is a great 90-minute set. Sit back and enjoy!<br><br>Read full post: <br><a contents="http://redtri.com/best-kids-songs-of-2014-playlist" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://redtri.com/best-kids-songs-of-2014-playlist" target="_blank">http://redtri.com/best-kids-songs-of-2014-playlist</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/33718682014-12-07T23:54:30-05:002020-03-02T15:00:12-05:00Pockets Full of Joy: The Best Kids Music of 2014<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/04da9cab63847c5a3da87e7174268d223424af93/original/joy.jpg?1418014571" class="size_orig justify_left border_none" alt="" />I've never been on a "Best of" list before. So when I saw this, my jaw dropped and my eyes got teary. This is a mighty list, and a great honor to be along side these fantastic artists. <br><br><em>The best jazz album of the year brings forth the roaring 20′s with no prohibition on juice boxes. </em><br><br>See the full article here:<br><a contents="https://cooperandkid.com/catch/art-entertainment/best-kids-music-of-2014/#sthash.vocvTvQa.dpbs" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://cooperandkid.com/catch/art-entertainment/best-kids-music-of-2014/#sthash.vocvTvQa.dpbs" target="_blank">https://cooperandkid.com/catch/art-entertainment/best-kids-music-of-2014/#sthash.vocvTvQa.dpbs</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/33633132014-12-05T01:45:10-05:002017-01-15T22:19:37-05:00Pockets Review: Jersey Family Fun<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/1759097f0adef8af6c4fdee5e62af0fc290f346a/small/jerseyfamlogo.png?1418329236" class="size_s justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 15px;" />Another lovely and sweet review! Thank you Jersey Family Fun!<br><br><em>Wait and See is the questions we sit and wonder as we rub our bellies as mothers and as we see our son’s and daughter’s faces as fathers. What will my child be? Will they be curious, will they want to sing, and then as we are wandering we notice how quickly our children, our babies, grow right before our eyes. Remember to dance!</em><br><br>Read the whole review here:<br><a contents="http://www.jerseyfamilyfun.com/lucy-kalantari-pockets-full-joy-cd-review/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.jerseyfamilyfun.com/lucy-kalantari-pockets-full-joy-cd-review/">http://www.jerseyfamilyfun.com/lucy-kalantari-pockets-full-joy-cd-review/</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/33531512014-12-02T22:23:23-05:002014-12-02T22:23:23-05:00Pockets (video) Review: I re-ran into this today and realized that I never posted this sweet, sweet video review from the youngest reviewer-to-date. Thank you, Muppet Lover for completely melting my heart. Check it out!<br><br><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/tn37N30l1eY" width="420"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/33487922014-12-01T23:29:56-05:002019-10-03T04:42:21-04:00Interview: Monkey RadioI had such a wonderful time back on Marc Raco's Monkey Radio show. Marc's bundles of fun!<br>Interview starts at around 30 minutes. Enjoy!<br><br>And if you get through the whole thing...scroll down here to hear my full version of Cookie Wipes (You'll "get it" after you hear the interview! hahaha)<br><br><iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/177342296&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe><br> <br><br><iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/178445870&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/32863562014-11-14T16:09:39-05:002014-11-14T16:09:39-05:00Interview: Ryan's CornerIt was a delightful time with Ryan Cole as I was his first guest on his new radio show, Ryan's Corner. He surprised me with an old tune of mine...this guy did some diggin'!<br><br>Check it out, episode 1 of Ryan's Corner:<br><a contents="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ryanskorner/2014/10/15/interview-with-singersongwriter-lucy-kalantari" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ryanskorner/2014/10/15/interview-with-singersongwriter-lucy-kalantari" target="_blank">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ryanskorner/2014/10/15/interview-with-singersongwriter-lucy-kalantari</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/32789082014-11-13T09:30:00-05:002020-11-17T12:57:27-05:00Pockets Review: KIDindependentThis was a wonderful review of Pockets Full of Joy on KIDindependent:<br>I urge you to take a listen, especially if you adore a 1920s inspired jazzy sound with oodles of whimsy, and a rich, warm sound that is (just as the title suggests) full of joy. I’m smitten as a kitten with big ball of yarn. <br><br><a contents="Click here for the full review.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://kidindependent.com/2014/10/1920s-inspired-ditties-pockets-full-of-joy/" target="_blank">Click here for the full review. </a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/32788722014-11-12T15:12:21-05:002017-01-15T22:19:37-05:00Pockets on Podcast: OWTK Kid's Monthly Podcast<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/cda3b6a85851c1a841a3a52b4621b38ee70485d2/small/xowtk-kids-music-monthly-logo-new-390x390-310x310-png-pagespeed-ic-vcohve3eg3.jpg?1415823115" class="size_s justify_right border_" />Next thing I knew, I fell behind on a few things. Over the next few days I'm just going to post about the fun things that have been happening lately: featured podcasts, interviews, reviews...these have been exciting days my friends. <br><br>I was so delighted to be included in Jeff Bogle's podcast, The OWTK Radio show: <br><a contents="Click here to download on iTunes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-2/id924315974?i=319666252&mt=2" target="_blank">Click here to download on iTunes</a>.<br><br>What's more, I was also on his playlist along with children's music artist friends <a contents="Stacey Peasley" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.staceypeasley.com/" target="_blank">Stacey Peasley</a> and <a contents="The Pop Ups" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://thepopups.com/" target="_blank">The Pop Ups</a>. <br><a contents="http://owtk.com/2014/10/owtk-kids-music-monthly-podcast-october-2014/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://owtk.com/2014/10/owtk-kids-music-monthly-podcast-october-2014/" target="_blank">http://owtk.com/2014/10/owtk-kids-music-monthly-podcast-october-2014/</a><br><br>Enjoy!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/32028622014-09-24T23:39:17-04:002020-08-21T04:56:03-04:00Pockets on the Radio: The Jazz Hole<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/dba74f193f53d66f80d2ff1210137f6b75361e18/medium/jazzhole-300x176.jpg?1411615827" class="size_m justify_left border_" />What a wonderful place to be: sandwiched between fantastic jazz music! DJ Linus included two tracks from <em>Pockets Full of Joy</em> in his radio show, The Jazz Hole. <br><br>Linus is a fantastic clarinet player, I know this. He played on my album! He also happens to be a mighty fine DJ. <br><br><a contents="Check out The Jazz Hole" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.breakthruradio.com/#/post/?dj=djlinus&post=1425&blog=29&autoplay=1">Check out The Jazz Hole</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/31886322014-09-15T22:11:31-04:002017-01-15T22:19:37-05:00Pockets on the Radio: Hilltown Family Variety Show<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/18b3ed7fbcffb67a33906cd06411c262be9beb8b/original/hfvs.png?1410833449" class="size_l justify_center border_" />This was exciting news: I was included in this really lovely radio show by fellow Children's artist <a contents="Alex Mitnick" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://kaleidoscopesongs.bandcamp.com/album/love-songs-for-my-baby" target="_blank">Alex Mitnick</a>.<br><br>Alex guest DJ'd the Hilltown Family Variety Show for WXOJ (103.3 FM in Valley Free Radio Northampton, MA.) It was an honor to be included in a playlist with The Beatles, Bob Marley, Joanie Leeds, Bari Koral and other amazing artists I love. You can check out this wonderfully love-themed show following the link below. <br><br><a contents="Love Episode with Guest DJ, Alex Mitnick" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://hilltownfamilies.wordpress.com/2014/09/14/hfvs-175/" target="_blank">Love Episode with Guest DJ, Alex Mitnick</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/31587672014-08-27T15:42:58-04:002017-01-15T22:19:37-05:00Pockets Mention: Cooper & Kid<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/48e01dc05275dbae9daf2afc19c39d350f13a090/small/cooperlogo.png?1409168942" class="size_s justify_left border_" />It's a really great time to be a kid. There's such a wonderful selection of kids music today that's fun for all audiences, and is still sophisticated enough for adults. I had the honor of being included in this list of <em>Jazz and Blues for Kids: Old Sounds for Young Ears</em>, along with <a contents="Jennifer Gasoi" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.jennifergasoi.com/" target="_blank">Jennifer Gasoi</a> and <a contents="Oran Etkin" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.oranetkin.com/kids.htm" target="_blank">Oran Etkin</a>. <br><br><em>Take a trip back to the gilded age with Lucy Kalantari who approximates the roaring 20′s on the ukulele with extremely impressive results. <br>–Jeff Bogle</em><br><br>See the full article <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://cooperandkid.com/catch/art-entertainment/jazz-and-blues-for-kids/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br><a contents="http://cooperandkid.com/catch/art-entertainment/jazz-and-blues-for-kids/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://cooperandkid.com/catch/art-entertainment/jazz-and-blues-for-kids/" target="_blank">http://cooperandkid.com/catch/art-entertainment/jazz-and-blues-for-kids/</a><br><br><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/31523422014-08-25T08:00:00-04:002014-08-25T08:01:14-04:00Pockets Review: Monty Guy BlogParticipating in this Grammy adventure has certainly put me out there in the open, and people are listening. In this wonderful blog post by Monty Guy, he mentions how much he can relate to this album from a Dad and brother perspective. Yes, dear friend, there's so much joy in being that caretaker and watching that little person grow. Thank you for this. A million thanks.<br> <div style="margin-left:5%;"><em>This collection of 'feel good' songs reminded this fan that listening to good music is a wonderful experience of fun, fulfillment, and delight.</em></div><br><a contents="See full post." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.montyguy.com/blog.html/monty_guy_friends_in_motion_lucy_kalantari/" target="_blank">See full post.</a>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/31371812014-08-14T15:35:39-04:002017-01-15T22:19:36-05:00Pockets Mention: Out With Kids on FB It's always a nice feeling when people listen to the work you've done and leave with the feeling you intended them to part with. That's a job done. Thank you to Jeff at <a contents="Out With The Kids" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://www.facebook.com/OutWithTheKids" target="_blank">Out With The Kids</a>.<br> <div style="font-style:italic;">
<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/4dc1eec60848ffac12a8eecaa05c74b817839518/small/owtk.jpg?1408848725" class="size_s justify_left border_none" alt="" />Today just went from good to great because new musical discovery JUST HAPPENED, kids. Thank you for emailing me, <a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=694559897249951" href="https://www.facebook.com/LucyKalantari?ref=hl">Lucy Kalantari</a>! You had me at "ditties with a 1920s flair about the wonders of love" and with that artwork. I mean, look at that album art! The music is everything you'd hoped it would be based on those two pieces of data. Go listen and be joyful!<br> </div><a contents="Click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/OutWithTheKids/posts/10152607113515979" target="_blank">Click her</a> to see post.<span style="color: rgb(20, 24, 35); font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;"> </span>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/30770512014-07-15T08:36:36-04:002014-07-15T08:36:36-04:00GoGirlsMusic NY showcase!Happy to be part of a welcoming showcase for GoGirlsMusic Founder, Madalyn Sklar who will be visiting NYC from Texas on July 29th. Join us as we fill the Branded Saloon with music from lovely rockstars:<br><br>Tuesday, July 29 starting at 6:30pm<br>Branded Saloon<br>603 Vanderbilt Ave<br>Brooklyn, New York 11238<br><a contents="https://www.facebook.com/events/1539388266289502" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1539388266289502" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/1539388266289502</a><br><br>I look forward to seeing your lovely faces!Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/30673242014-07-09T23:08:46-04:002014-07-15T08:28:22-04:00Interview on BudaRest with Jax & Bud!<p>I had a fun time doing this interview with Jax Resto and Bud Buckley on their show, BudaRest. It will be airing again Today (July 10) at 6pm, Friday, July 11th at 9pm, and Saturday, July 12th at noon: <a data-reactid=".16g.1:3:1:$comment10152193013997066_10152194370457066:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.$range1:0" dir="ltr" href="http://www.kdwradio.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: rgb(255, 128, 5);" target="_blank">www.kdwradio.com</a></p>
<p>I’ll post the archive link when it’s up. Catch one of these airdates if you can!</p>
<div>UPDATE: Here's the archive show link. Check it out: <a contents="http://kdwradio.com/show-80-pocket-full-of-joy/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://kdwradio.com/show-80-pocket-full-of-joy/">http://kdwradio.com/show-80-pocket-full-of-joy/</a>
</div>Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/29728292014-05-27T01:10:17-04:002014-05-28T07:42:01-04:00It's here: Album release day!Head on over to the <a contents="Music page" data-link-label="Music" data-link-type="page" href="/music">Music page</a> to listen to <em>Pockets Full of Joy</em> in its entirety for today.<br>Get your own copy right there, or on <a contents="Amazon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.amazon.com/Pockets-Full-Joy-Lucy-Kalantari/dp/B00K6RNP5O" target="_blank">Amazon</a> or <a contents="iTunes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/pockets-full-of-joy-ep/id875005396" target="_blank">iTunes</a>. <br><br><strong>And don't forget to #SpreadJoy!</strong><br>Spread the word on twitter and Facebook, and tag it with #SpreadJoy. Let me know what you think, I want to hear from you!<br><br><strong>UPDATE: </strong>With a mission to #SpreadJoy <em>Pockets Full of Joy</em> will stream indefinitely. Won't you please, pass it on.<br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/29711232014-05-26T08:36:50-04:002017-01-15T22:19:36-05:00Lucy Kalantari on Rhythm Approved!One day away from the release, and I wanted to share this lovely post about the single from Rhythm and Ruffle. It left me beaming. Thank you so much, Toni Styles!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/797f3bf7e3f418776ef112212bad82485bb4269e/large/lucyk-800.jpg?1401071439" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><blockquote cite="http://rhythmandruffle.com/rhythm-approved-pockets-full-of-joy/">
<p><strong>who:</strong> Jazz/Pop, Singer & Songwriter Lucy Kalantari</p>
<p><strong>why:</strong> A sweet and refreshing song. In an industry filled with singles that carry incredible weight and emotion; this one leaves the listener a little lighter.</p>
</blockquote><a contents="http://rhythmandruffle.com/rhythm-approved-pockets-full-of-joy/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://rhythmandruffle.com/rhythm-approved-pockets-full-of-joy/">Check it out here!</a><br><br> Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Catstag:lucykalantari.com,2005:Post/29687742014-05-16T10:55:00-04:002017-01-15T22:19:36-05:00Pockets Full of Joy: Out on May 27th!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/140419/0414a1340ba842b43a4cbcc0f36cb71a287fbd89/medium/pfoj-300.jpg?1400903811" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" />I’m so excited to announce that <em>Pockets Full of Joy</em> will be released May 27th! Check out the gorgeous design by <a contents="Rina Miele of HoneyDesign" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.honeydesign.com/" target="_blank">Rina Miele of HoneyDesign</a>.<br><br>In the meantime, be sure to CONNECT and sign the mailing list! You’ll get updates and news from me, AND you’ll get the gift of joy: a download of the Pockets Full of Joy single.Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Cats