Veteran and Young Singer Come Together in Love of Children's Music

Singer/songwriter Stacey Peasley opened up Boston Aardvarks, part of the program Music for Aardvarks and other Mammals in September, 2009.

The classes, which are for children between the ages of six months and five years include all things musical from singing to dancing to use of instruments. Peasley, who also has her own children’s music band, has been performing children’s music since 2008. Prior to that she performed for adults for several years, and is now in her 20th year of performing music. She also teaches music to infants to Pre-K at the Tobin Children’s School.

Peasley recently added a new teacher at Boston Aardvarks. Alissa Coates has a degree in music education from Berklee College of Music, and she also teaches music at Our Lady's Academy in Waltham.

We sat down with Peasley and Coates recently to learn more about them and Boston Aardvarks.

Patch: There are a lot of types of music. Why children’s music?

Stacey Peasley: It started after I had my first kid. I started writing songs for both my kids. I started as a listener, then a hobby and then a band and CD. I never thought it would be possible.

Alissa Coates: I decided I wanted to be a teacher in the seventh grade. It’s been my career path since I was 13. In high school I was teaching voice lessons, and I liked working with kids.

Patch: What do you like about working with children?

AC: I’ve started writing children’s music. My students are helping. There’s so many things you can do. Also, adult music starts at 8 p.m. and goes until 1-2 a.m. [Coates and Peasley both like the regular hours of performing for children]

SP: I like the kids’ honest reaction. You can be so young and react to music. I’ve never met someone who didn’t like music. Seeing bouncing and clapping is so much fun. And I love seeing the bonding with the caregiver.

AC: Plus, the parents get to see other adults. It’s nice to see the parents relax and have someone else entertain their kids.

Patch: What can you tell us about some of the other things you do in addition to teaching?

SP: I perform with my band and I have a CD with music that I’ve written. I also perform at children’s birthday parties.

AC: I also recently started doing birthday parties. I also give piano and voice lessons.

The latest session of classes at Boston Aardvarks started on Tuesday, but you can still sign up. Simply contact them through their website.