I am writing this letter to express my opinion concerning Pam Blanchard & the Sunny Side Up Band. I am a Pre-Kindergarten teacher in Clarke County and have had the privilege of introducing over 400 students to Pam and the band's music over the past 3 years.

For two years we were able to organize a Pam Blanchard & the Sunny-Side Up Band Concert for the Pre-K students. During the 1999-2000 school year, however, this was not possible due to a reduction in the amount of field trip money each class received. I was able to take my class to the Morton Theater in October for the production of "An Angel Headed Your Way." I could do this only because we were given free tickets to this event through the Montessori school. I familiarized my students with the Sunny Side Up music that would be a part of the musical prior to the show thanks to Pam providing me with a tape--again at no charge. My students still listen to and specifically request that I play that tape during our center time activities. They have amazed me with the dramatic interpretation they have created while listening to this music. The story-telling lyrics, variety of instruments, and vocal abilities make this tape and the others enjoyable to children and adults alike.

In addition to being a wonderful musician, Pam is also an incredible educator. She is able to show classroom teachers the importance of using music with young children and gives them the resources to do just that. I have attended several workshops she has presented and each time there is the same positive reaction by the participants. As chairperson of the Athens Area Association on Young Children, I made sure she was a presenter at two of our annual fall conferences. The responses given included, "Very friendly. Pam made me feel like I wanted to get up and participate," "I really enjoyed learning new songs to sing with my class. Pam made it fun," and "The singing in this session is my favorite. It really helps me in my classroom."

The students in my classrooms have really enjoyed the tapes and music of the Sunny-Side Up Band; but, what really brings it to life is the live performances. It seems to be the difference in experiencing two dimensions and three. When young children actually see and hear, it is much more intense that just hearing alone.

What is frustrating though is that more children are not hearing this music and having these experiences. Pam Blanchard & the Sunny-Side Up Band have an invaluable asset to offer to young children and their families, but it is not able to be shared because of restrictive financial situations. We have this incredible resource at our fingertips and we are all but forced to stand back and do nothing.

I believe that every child could benefit from experiencing Pam Blanchard & the Sunny-Side Up Band's music. Maybe one day the priorities will be straight and monies can be allotted to areas that truly are beneficial for children.

The Sunny Side Up Band will play in my classroom as long as I am a teacher. I will also continue to do all within my power to allow each class to have at least one encounter with this phenomenal group. It is difficult though with dwindling funds.

A perfect world would be one in which every child gains exposure to this band and can truly feel how "'Music Makes Me Happy."

Sincerely,

Amy M. Kay