Link to download A Young Naturalist’s Songbook (load time might be slow, it’s a big, colorful file!)
I designed and illustrated this song book for children based on the songs of my dear friends,Stephen Hein & Kristen Strohm. I created it to accompany the nature education programs I provide through various organizations. The songbook includes the words to 14 nature-based songs for kids written by Stephen Hein & Kristen Strohm (whose band goes by the name ‘Riparia’). To get a flavor of their beautiful music, check out their Riparia Music YouTube channel (though none of the songs are from this kids songbook).
The songbook includes both nature songs for kids and folk songs for adults, with fun illustrations and photographs and plenty of room for notes and sketches. I’ve used these songs and this book with lots of kids and they really love it.
Here’s what one parent wrote to me after a program I taught using these songs:
“Thanks Christine for sharing your passion and expertise with us in your wonderful class today. Both my kids loved it and so did I. I appreciate you being so supportive of our different skill levels. And your nature songs were a big hit – the girls have been singing them all afternoon!”
Link to download A Young Naturalist’s Songbook (load time might be slow, it’s a big, colorful file!)
Here’s a fun little video I made of me singing (don’t laugh too hard!) a rendition of one of the songs from the book, The Jolly Robber Jay.
About the Songwriters
Stephen and Kristen, the song’s writers, have a ‘geofolk’ ensemble that perform under the name Riparia. You can see them performing some of their songs on their YouTube channel.
I plan to link to audio files of more of their songs soon. They have recorded a couple of CDs as well, and if you are interested in learning more about them or purchasing a CD, contact Kristen by email at: wildbirdsong@gmail.com .