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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT TWO OF A KIND'S RECORDINGS FOR CHILDREN:Two of a Kind - Reviews
What People Are Saying...
[Two of a Kind]combine fun with safety, and combine musical variety with a meaningful message..."
Click for MoreSo Many Ways To Be Smart - "A toe-tapping, hand-clapping, sing-alongable collection of spectacular songs..."
Click for MorePatchwork Planet - "A great album of singable songs about important things..."
Click for MoreGoing On An Adventure - "... a peppy, upbeat album ..."
Click for MoreConnections - "I WAS BLOWN AWAY by... Connections...!!! "
Click for MoreLove Makes a Family - "Children will like this joyful collection of songs..."
Click for MoreFriends - "...nothing less than Brilliant!..."
Click for MoreSchools - "Of all the programs we have had, this was the BEST!"
Click for MoreLibraries - "... a wonderful musical program ... upbeat, lively entertainment..."
Click for MoreResidencies
"I learned music editing, brainstorming song ideas, and I had fun."
Click for MoreArticles
"...Their songs are funny, melodious, and encompass a rainbow of style genres..."
Click for More
"Two of a Kind is Jenny and David Heitler-Klevans, and this fine
local duo has produced two CDs that include some of their best work. Let me warn
you: Two of a Kind cares about people; they care about the environment; they care about
peace. And this passion for social issues comes through in their music. Unlike
artists who hit you over the head with message while neglecting musical quality, Two of a
Kind's latest efforts combine fun with safety, and combine musical variety with meaningful
message. "Going On An Adventure" gives a rockabilly feel to the
fire-prevention message of "Stop, Drop, and Roll." They cover some of the
best, including Tom Chapin and Bill Harley, and they do it with style in this CD aimed at
younger kids (up to age 7). Connections is aimed at older kids (7-12), including a
powerful "Paul Robeson Song" featuring a gospel choir. Both CDs celebrate
reading and literacy, and both demonstrate a feel for real-life kid interests."
- Kathy O'Connell, host of WXPN-FM's Peabody Award-winning Kid's Corner venues show, in a
review in MetroKids (January, 2000)
"Just wanted to send you a note to inform you of my great
appreciation for you music and what you have contributed to children's music industry.
I am an early childhood teacher. I love your music."
- Lisa Schultz, Early Childhood Teacher
"Thanks so much for your latest releases. We and our listeners
are really enjoying Connections and Going on an Adventure. We really appreciate all
of the music you send!!
- Marieke VanderSteenhoven, producer, "Chickens R People 2" venues show
(Portland, ME)
"We listen to David & Jenny's tapes in the car all the
time... All the kids we cart around love the songs."
- Meg Ash, Parent (Atlanta, GA)
"We have been listening to the new CD's nonstop since we got home
and they are SO FANTASTIC!! I love every song and am singing them all the time.
Nikolai dances when we play them. They are so good and you should be really proud
of yourselves. We hope they sell well."
- Margot Cook (Denver, CO)
"I have just gotten my class/workshop plans in order for the rest
of the year, and I am using many songs from Two of a Kind. I especially love
your Hello song. I like the way you leave time for processing and repeating. Many
musicians do not, and their music is lost to the younger ones."
- Melanie Iversen, Early Childhood Music Educator (Raleigh, NC)
"I must tell you that my 5 year old daughter , Julia, just LOVES
your CDs!! We play them again and again and again... I am so impressed by your
talent!"
- Barb Villani (Denver, CO)
"We have really enjoyed playing the cassette recording of Two of
a Kind. Once we had the whole family dancing in a circle while it played!"
- Matt, parent
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT "SO MAY WAYS TO BE SMART":
"Two of a Kind has done it again! Their latest CD, "So Many Ways To Be
Smart", is a toe-tapping, hand-clapping, sing-alongable collection of
spectacular songs. From historical portraits to social justice anthems, these
songs feed your brain, warm your heart, inspire and educate at the same time. A
high quality recording with great arrangements, great adult as well as kid
musicians, and great messages -- put it on permanent rotation!"
- Billy Jonas, award-winning performer/songwriter/recording-artist
"Two of a Kind have created yet another of their classroom friendly
musical romps with upbeat original songs about history, peace and freedom as
well as just how we learn to get along with each other in this world. Kids,
parents and teachers will all find something to sing about on this recording."
- Sally Rogers, award-winning family/folk musician
WHAT PEOPLE ARE
SAYING ABOUT "PATCHWORK PLANET":
(winner of two 2002 Children's Music Web Awards:
"Best Educational Recording for Young Children" and "Best Recording for Older Children")
"A great album of singable songs about important things."
- Bill Harley (award-winning storyteller/songwriter/recording artist)
"How wonderful to hear family music that combines great
songs, great ideas, and great musicianship...all
in one package. Patchwork Planet stitches it all
together."
- John McCutcheon (Grammy-nominated folk/children's musician)
"Appropriately enough for a recording titled "Patchwork
Planet", there's a great diversity of music here - lot's of instruments,
styles, rhythms, arrangements, topics - more than
enough to keep any child's interest. Music that encourages and uplifts,
remaining fun throughout. Enjoy!"
- Laz of "Gemini" (award-winning children's music duo)
"David and Jenny Heitler-Klevans perform as Two of a
Kind, and their latest effort is Patchwork Planet. I can honestly say that
each CD by this duo is better than the last. If
you're in the market for environmentally friendly music ("The Double Life of
Amphibians") with some life lessons ("That's Not
Fair"), a touch of fun ("I'm Not Scared" with some nice Klezmer touches),
and terrific production values (including lots of
kids' voices), check out Patchwork Planet. These are folks with nice folkie
sensibilities who ROCK on this album."
- Kathy O'Connell (host of Peabody-award-winning "Kid's Corner" on WXPN,
review in MetroKids)
"A
terrific children's album tying together not only cultural diversity, but
the richness of the natural world as well."
- Review in Dirty Linen magazine (December '02/January '03 #103)
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
ABOUT "GOING ON AN ADVENTURE"
(winner of 1999 Parents' Choice Silver Honors, and two 2003 Children's Music Web Awards:
"Classic Recording for Preschoolers" and "Classic Recording for Young Children"):
"This is a must have!
Obviously, David and Jenny know music and how to involve kids with songs. We
highly recommend
Going on an Adventure
as great music for home, traveling or for school classrooms. Children won't get
tired of these enjoyable hand clapping/foot stomping songs!"
- 5-star review at
http://allstarreview.com/goingonan.html
"Solid musicianship and decidedly upbeat energy will have
listeners proclaiming this husband-and-wife team as a one-of-a-kind find. A
playfully eclectic roster of songs includes a jaunty "Mama Don't Allow" and the
body-parts song "Horns to Toes," adapted from a picture book by Sandra Boynton,
[and] other get-up-and-groove tunes featuring kid-friendly themes. Throughout,
electric and acoustic guitar, horns, banjo, mandolin and flute add pizzazz to the snappy
arrangements. Pleasant folk harmonies abound."
-Review in Publishers Weekly (December, 1999)
"Going On An Adventure is a peppy, upbeat album full of danceable
inventive tunes and catchy melodies that keep the kids swaying to the music and highly
entertained (& out of your hair for a while). Going On An Adventure is geared
more towards the dynamic pre/early school year olds....Superb Stuff there !!!!"
- Stavros Moschopoulos, review in Kids' Corner (Music for Little Tykes) column, FAO CASA
GAZETTE, Rome, Italy (October, 1999)
"'Going On An Adventure' has a contagious content, both lyrically and
musically. Positive messages of learning are found in each song. Every song
deals with a different topic or scenario the child may be in, talk about, or have a
general knowledge of. I played it for my kids one day and the next day they were
excitedly asking for it again. The proof is in the pudding. "We Are The
Dinosaurs" will rock those little ones until their hearts' content. Even if
you're an adult, this music really works on you."
- Review on MuzikMan web site (March 2000) [this site is no longer functioning]
"Jenny and David's voices blend pleasantly together, and they are
joined by a chorus of children on several songs. The tunes are bouncy, catchy, and
enjoyable. "Stop, Drop and Roll" may help save a child's life in a fire.
Rock, reggae, blues, zydeco and bluegrass are just some of the musical styles which
they use for the songs on this album."
-Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX - Review in School Library Journal
(January 2000)
"The music and vocals are superb with their own twin sons adding
sound effects and solo's to the recording. This husband and wife team love what they
do best, bringing life to stories for kids with music. It shows through in every
song!"
- Review on To The Bone web site (1999)
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
ABOUT "CONNECTIONS"
(winner of 1999 Parents' Choice Silver Honors and "Best
Music for Older Children" in the Children's Music Web Awards):
"I
never tire of listening to these songs (and my children insist on listening to
them continuously) - on CONNECTIONS as well as on David & Jenny Heitler-Klevans'
other albums (LOVE MAKES A FAMILY, FRIENDS) with my two-year-old son and
seven-year-old daughter. The messages in each and every song are wonderful:
protecting and preserving the natural world, lauding historical heroes and their
visions, like Paul Robeson, Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman; celebrating reading,
and literary favorites, like Nate the Great, The Magic Schoolbus' Ms. Frizzle,
and Harriet the Spy (the latter of which is a hilariously stylized
tour-de-force!); songs about other cultures, languages, and how we are "all
different, and still alike.."; songs that promote peace and justice, as well as
those that touch on issues like poverty and the true meaning of democracy. It's
almost too good to be true: songs that convey positive social messages that are
neither heavy-handed nor inaccessible. The music itself is of a high caliber,
and sparkles with variety and style. If you are looking for music that is
socially relevant, environmentally friendly, tolerant, fun to sing along with,
musically interesting and full of positive messages for our children, buy this
album or any other one by these artists. They are my FIRST choice for presents
for our children's friends!"
- A music fan, Oberlin, OH (Review on Amazon.com)
"I am
a six year old boy (and this is his MOM). I loooooooove Two of a Kind. Your kid
will, too. Your mom will, too. Your dad will, too. Your big sister will, too.
Our family knows all the words to all these songs. I like Hey, Little Ant the
best. I can be the ant or I can be the kid who would like to step on the ant.
You can't go wrong here. Mom says: He's right on!!!"
- A music fan, Wayne, PA (Review on Amazon.com)
"I think CONNECTIONS is a great album."
- David Zinovenko, host/producer of "The Carousel" venues show (Fairfield, CT)
"Jenny and David's performances are really magical. It's
such a gift to be able to share and use your talents to truly benefit another human being,
especially little ones. What kind of message are you sending your child when you
expose them to music like this? The answer is sitting right in front of you smiling
and dancing and learning about life."
- Review on MuzikMan web site (March 2000)
"David and Jenny Heitler-Klevans cover several popular topics
here, such as ecology, self-esteem, friendship and literacy. The opening title song
is a pleasant tune about harmony and ecology that makes great use of kid vocals.
Monty Harper's "Hanging Out with Heroes at the Library" will be a hit
with librarians. "Swimmy" contains a fun sing-along chorus for story hour.
The highlight of the recording is Sarah Pirtle's "Talk it Out," a lively
anger/conflict resolution song with a catchy chorus. The production quality is very
good and professional."-Rob Reid, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire/Indianhead
Federated Library System
- Review in School Library Journal (January 2000)
"The music, vocals, harmonies, and children's chorus are
wonderful. Jenny and David Heitler-Klevans believe that kids are musically
sophisticated and their music has a wide range of styles, including blues, folk, funk, and
reggae. Above all, they love kids and music and bringing the two together."
- Review on To The Bone web site (1999)
"I WAS BLOWN AWAY by the Connections tape!!! The use of
other instrumentation and the childrens' chorus that accompanied were spectacular."
-Ed Davidson, grandparent (Berwyn, PA)
"We listened to the CD and I have to tell you we loved it.
We were particularly taken with a couple of cuts which we are going to want to
learn! We really loved "Swimmy". It's an excellent musical setting
for that story. The other song (among others) that really got us was "Who
Decides?". When we're singing for kids and they get that glazed over "what
can we do?" look in their eye, that song is the perfect response."
-Greg Artzner of Magpie, Wolf Trap Institute Master Artists (Takoma Park, MD)
"WOWWWWWWW!!!! The whole production was fantastic.
Needless to say, I like it, I love it...you guys have recorded THE version of the
[Paul Robeson] song as it was conceived. The album as a whole is quite great too - I
like the variety, the production - song arrangements etc. plus the choice of material.
I think this is a wonderfully singable album for kids (something that many
"children's recordings" of today don't quite achieve in my opinion)."
-Kevin Zeigenhagen Slick, teacher, singer/songwriter (Media, PA)
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT
"LOVE MAKES A FAMILY":
"Children will like this joyful collection of songs. A good choice for
schools and libraries."
- George Pilling, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire/Eau Claire Public Library (Review
published in "School Library Journal", November 1996, pp. 71-72)
"It's good to hear such family oriented music that not only is fun to listen
to but has good messages."
- Jaimie Sanders, parent (UT)
"The sound is great, the instruments and arrangements are great, the songs are
great. Overall, a big thumbs up."
- Monty Harper, singer-songwriter/recording artist for children (Stillwater, OK)
"Your "Love Makes a Family" tape is great! We have played it
many, many times."
- Rob Kelly, parent (Princeton, NJ)
"I like this CD - a well-thought-out, well-executed recording. I would
give this gift of music to my family and friends - one of the few recordings that I would
give to friends and family just for the sheer listening pleasure."
- Penny, singer-songwriter/recording artist for children, Kids Kollectibles Music (ND)
"I think this recording is top notch. There is something here for all
ages, which I think is particularly commendable."
- Cathy Francis, pre-school music teacher/recording artist for children (VT)
"A classic. The production is good, the playing is tight and there
is a nice mix of real and synthesised instruments. I enjoyed the little touches like
the "squish" sound in the juice song and the "bubbly" vocals in
"[At the] 'Quarium". "This Old Rocking Chair", in my books, is a
truly great song."
- Arif, venues host and member of The Aunties, children's recording artists (New Zealand)
"We recently travelled to New York, and listened to your tape ["Love
Makes a Family"] for most of the 5 hours roundtrip. Not only do the kids know
every word (as they should, by then!), but there are few tapes I could listen to for so
long and still enjoy!"
- Amy Norr, parent (PA)
"Our purchase of your cassette tape "Love Makes a Family" has turned
out to be the best gift ever to our granddaughter. She sings every word, every part
and the instrumental licks, too! Such joy!"
- Carol M. Johnson, grandmother (Ashland, OH)
"There is a lot of heart in Love Is A Family. It is a well-packaged
recording with great production, performance and instrumentation. The [songs] are
well written, age appropriate and interesting for young people. 'This Old Rocking
Chair' is absolutely beautiful."
- Rachel Sumner, Singer-songwriter/Recording Artist for Children (Nashville, TN)
"IT'S WONDERFUL - the whole CD is great."
- Robin Smith, Songwriter (NY)
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT "FRIENDS":
""Friends" is particularly useful in teaching children about
friendship and the diversity of people. This is an excellent teaching tool as well
as a wonderful source of entertainment for children."
- Diane Brown, Health Education Project Director (Philadelphia, PA)
"I love your music. It makes me want to sing along."
- Aaron Urist, 7 yrs. old (Ann Arbor, MI)
"Our kids at Hollywood Elementary love your music! Some of our teachers
used your "Hello" at a multicultural presentation"
- Betsie Camilliere, teacher, Hollywood Elementary (Hollywood, MD)
"I love it! I just can't keep the songs out of my head - I keep singing
them!"
- Margaret Swain, buyer, John's Music catalogue/store (Seattle, WA)
"Everything about ["Friends"] is great."
- Ben, Wendy & Larry Steinberg (PA)
"The CD ["Friends"] is nothing less than Brilliant! We are all
enjoying it."
- The Dineen's (Ardmore, PA)
"David and Jenny, otherwise known as the fabulous musical group Two of a
Kind, have just put out a new album of songs for kids and we just happen to think
it's absolutely super fantastic!"
- Borders Book Shop (Philadelphia, PA)
WHAT SCHOOLS ARE SAYING ABOUT TWO OF A KIND:
"We were treated today to an outstanding performance by David and Jenny
Heitler-Klevans, from Two of a Kind. Of all the programs we have had, this was the
BEST! They had a marvelous rapport with the children and designed their program so
that it would be appropriate for the ages of the children. They also tailored the
program to meet curricular needs of our teachers. We are focusing on
multiculturalism and are beginning a unit on the Olympics. They selected songs that
related to both of these themes. They maintained the active interest and
participation of the children throughout the program. Their transitions between
numbers were smooth and the program flowed beautifully. I recommend this group
highly to other schools and hope that we can have them back again."
- Barbara D. Shohen, Principal (Anne Frank School, Philadelphia, PA)
"I would highly recommend Two of a Kind for your school or community event.
On all occasions we found their music upbeat, entertaining and educational.
Students, parents and teachers alike applauded their ability to delight all age
groups. We all had tapping feet and clapping hands.As the curriculum facilitator, I
was particularly impressed with their ability to integrate learning into their songs.
As a full inclusion school we appreciated how their use of American sign language
was part of their repertoire. They were flexible, easy to coordinate with and sensitive to
the particular needs and desires of our community."
- Randy S. Davis, past Curriculum Facilitator & present Principal (Hanscom Primary
School, MA)
"It is rare for us to see performers who understand so well the Friends
principles that guide our program. The teachers particularly appreciated the values
emphasized and the stories of peace makers that you shared by singing with us. I
plan to tell my colleagues about your wonderful performance.I want to express my
appreciation for the way you tailored the program to fit
the interests and mood of the children. The program shifted from thoughtful to
silly, and quiet and boisterous songs with such deftness that our students gave you their
rapt attention for 45 minutes, and then rejoiced when you agreed to an encore. Now
that's a performance!"
- Lee Quinby, Head of School (State College Friends School, PA)
"Thank you so much for offering this opportunity for students to see
connections between music and community. Although middle school students are often
more reserved and reluctant to participate in singing in a large group, our students were
singing along by the second song! The combination of music and accounts of people
involved in the Civil Rights Movement was particularly effective. The faculty had
very positive feedback about this assembly."
- Jessica Young, Middle School (University School of Nashville, TN)
"Two of a Kind presented a wonderfully integrated program for three separate
groups of children. Each level had a theme that was age-appropriate for our
students. Jenny and David were great with the children and kept them entertained as
well as including them in each program. Our teachers made a point of getting back to
me about how impressed they were. Each program complimented our curriculum so well.
I believe our students were enriched by each song and I am also confident that they
will remember the lessons that Two of a Kind brought to our school."
-Stephen Hewitt, Principal (Resurrection of Our Lord School, Philadelphia, PA)
"Thank you so much for coming to our school. The children absolutely
loved your programs. Both programs were educational, informative, and entertaining.
In this day and age it is hard to impress our young children and you did it!
As you will see by the enclosed letters, our kids were impressed. Thanks
again for the important work you do. I hope you both realize how talented you both
are and how you impact young lives."
-Mary Kay Yonker, Principal (Jack D. Jones Elementary School, White Cloud, MI)
"Thank you so much for coming to perform at Salisbury Elementary School!
Your performances were enjoyed by all! One of my first graders told me that
he did not want it to end. Thanks again!"
- Julie Swanson, Music Teacher (Salisbury Elementary School, Gap, PA)
"Your program "Singing for our Lives" was entertaining and
enlightening! Your songs reminded all of us just how much music has been a part of
the key social movements in this country. You established a wonderful rapport with
our audience. Thanks again for your inspirational program."
- Jon M. Harris, Head of Upper School (Friends' Central Upper School, Wynnewood, PA)
"Thank you for your fantastic performance on our final R.I.F. [Reading Is
Fundamental] day here at Sinking Spring! My kids have been singing your songs ever
since you were here! I think it is safe to say you were a HIT!"
- Joanne Goss, PTA (Sinking Spring Elementary, PA)
"[The] teachers were very impressed with David & Jenny and pronounced them
"the best children's singers" they'd ever heard."
- Meg Ash, parent (Paideia School, Atlanta, GA)
"Two of a Kind has performed at our school for the past two years. Our
children of all ages, Early Start through fifth grade loved their performances. Not
only did they learn wonderful songs about caring about one another, but they were active
participants with the performers. Our teachers have purchased tapes of their songs
so that they can continue the positive messages offered by them. Our children left their
performances smiling, happily singing their tunes. We look forward to having them
again in the future. I would highly recommend them to all."
- Mary Beth Hempel, Head of School (West Chester Friends School, PA)
"Thank you so much for coming to Moffet School. It was a real pleasure
to have you here. Your performances were thoroughly enjoyed by the students and
staff. I've listened to the cassettes and they're great. Hope you come back to
Moffet again real soon."
- Irene Pelech, Music Teacher (John Moffet School, Philadelphia, PA)
"It's unanimous - everyone loved the assembly, and your were right on target.
We all appreciated your enthusiasm and the student participation. The older
students were thrilled to be included as they are usually overlooked since they sit in the
back. I'll be in touch for next year. Thank you again."
- Patsy Tollin, 2nd Grade Teacher and Assembly Coordinator (Baldwin School, Bryn Mawr, PA)
"We enjoyed your assembly so much! Your songs are great, just perfect for
children of elementary age (and me too.) I love songs with participation and that
teach something also. We hope you can come back sometime."
-Elaine Elensky, 3rd Grade Teacher (Penn-Grampian Elementary School, PA)
"What a wonderful day the children have had! The teachers are very
pleased with the programs you offered. Your music selections go so well with our
curriculum and the kids were never bored. Thank you for your time, effort and
energy."
-Margi Gregan, teacher (Resurrection of Our Lord School, Philadelphia, PA)
"It was what the shows should be: interesting, fun, educational."
-Teacher (West Branch Elementary, PA)
"Great performance. [Two of a Kind] quickly established rapport with all
ages."
-5th grade teacher (Wingate Elementary, PA)
WHAT STUDENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT TWO OF A KIND:
"I really really really loved your singing because it was very good."
- Vida, 2nd grade student (C.W. Henry School, Philadelphia, PA)
"The songs you played I enjoyed very much. They taught me a lot. I
can get along with people better now. I want to thank you for teaching me."
- April, 2nd grade student (C.W. Henry School, Philadelphia, PA)
"I think you would bring a lot of friendship to the world."
- Nina, 2nd grade student (C.W. Henry School, Philadelphia, PA)
"When I grow up I am going to be just like you."
- Rysheema, 2nd grade student (C.W. Henry School, Philadelphia, PA)
"I really enjoyed your show. I think you are my favorite singers."
- Emily, student (Chadds Ford Elementary, Chadds Ford, PA)
"I think you're the best singers that I have ever heard."
- Willis Moore, student (Chadds Ford Elementary, Chadds Ford, PA)
"Those songs were good. In fact they were so good I sang them all night
long. I drove my mom crazy."
- Lance Beck, student (Jack D. Jones Elementary, White Cloud, MI)
"I like your songs. You guys are great. I hope you guys come back.
I want to sing with you guys. I am practicing with my guitar. I want to
be a singer when I grow up."
- Randi, student (Jack D. Jones Elem., White Cloud, MI)
"We thought it was a great assembly especially the song with all the types of
hello's from all over the world."
- Chris Howarth & Muhamed Ismakovic, students (John Moffet School, Philadelphia, PA)
"I hope you come back. I miss you already and I liked your hat and I
enjoyed your singing. That was the best assembly I had since last year when you
came."
- Gregory Wilkins, student (John Moffet School, Philadelphia, PA)
"I am glad you came to our school. I'm glad that you made up really really
good songs! The songs that you sang were so neat I could listen to them for the rest of my
life. Do you know what? I think you should make up a dance for all of your songs.
Your fan"
- Shawn, student (Octorara Elementary School, Atglen, PA)
"I love your music. It makes me want to sing along. We gave your
"Friends" tape to one of my friends and she loves it."
- Aaron Urist (7 yrs. old, Ann Arbor, MI)
[at Octorara Elem., Atglen, PA, 9/99]
"We really liked your songs. Those songs that you made were cool. My
favorite part was when we got to stomp our feet and make a really big noise. David
you're very good at the guitar, and Jenny, you're good at funny noises. I hope you
come back soon.
- Love, your fan, Adessa"
"I am glad you came to our school. I'm glad that you made up really really
good songs! The songs that you sang were so neat I could listen to them for the rest of my
life. Do you know what? I think you should make up a dance for all of your songs.
- Your fan, Shawn"
"My favorite song was "Where the Wild Things Are." We hope you come
back before we are in 5th grade.
-Your friend, Alex" (3rd grader)
[from students at Chadds Ford Elem., PA]
"Dear Two of a Kind,We loved your show at our school! We really liked your
hats. Miss Mallon bought both tapes and we've been listening to them ever since.
Our two favorite songs are "Walls and Bridges" and "What Can One
Little Person Do?". We hope you can come again!
-From your biggest fans (at Chadds Ford Elem.)
"I really enjoyed your show. I think you are my favorite singers.
-Love, Emily"
"Dear Two of a Kind, I think you're the best singers that I have ever heard.
You are so cool. I like all of your songs but my favorite is "What can
one little person do?" It is cool. Hope I see you again.
-from Willis Moore"
[from students at Jack D. Jones Elementary School in White Cloud, MI]
"Those songs were good. In fact they were so good I sang them all night long.
I drove my mom crazy she said shut up.
-By Lance Beck"
"How are you doing? My favorite song was Mama Don't Allow no Music in the House
and I'm Going to the Library. I think you two sing good. Jenny, you're pretty.
I like your guitar David.
-From Kristina"
WHAT LIBRARIES ARE SAYING ABOUT TWO OF A KIND:
"I highly recommend these entertainers ... a wonderful musical program ...
upbeat, lively entertainment. This was a fun program enjoyed by one and all."
-Barbara McNutt, Children's Librarian, Upper Dublin Public Library (Ft. Washington, PA)
"The program was delightful. It was the perfect kick-off for our Summer
Reading Program this year. The children enjoyed it and the adults had fun,
too."
-Joan A. R. Duke, Centre County Library (Bellefonte, PA)
"A terrific show. Your selection of tunes, pleasing harmonies, and warm
but professional performance style made for a lovely evening. Many of the families
expressed their appreciation for such a nice program."
-Karen Cullum, Children's Assistant, Cecil County Public Library (Elkton, MD)
"Your songs were thoughtful and catchy, and you did a great job of involving a
large group of kids."
-Eileen Samuelson, Children's Librarian, Fall of Schuylkill Branch (Philadelphia, PA)
"Your harmonizing was exceptional, the selection of music was fun and just
right for the children and the audience participation got everyone involved. My
personal favorite was "Where the Wild Things Are."
-Karen Miller, Director, Downingtown Library (Downingtown, PA)
"Two of a Kind presented a wonderful show. They had created several
special songs which echoed the "Grab the Treasure...Be a Bookaneer" theme.
Their voices blended well together and there was a lot of audience participation.
The children thoroughly enjoyed themselves."
-Susan C. Bailey, Children's Librarian, Middletown Free Library (Lima, PA)
"I highly recommend [Two of a Kind's] performance. The children were
attentive and entertained throughout the entire show. David and Jenny involved the
children in the singing and they selected songs that were about the well-known children's
book characters popular today."
-Claire Wilcox, Children's Librarian, Morris Plains Public Library (Morris Plains, NJ)
"Your songs and stories certainly fit in with our "Wild About
Reading" Summer Reading Program theme! The children (and adults) who attended
the program enjoyed themselves, and you did a super job of involving a large group of
youngsters of varying ages."
-Michele A. Belluomini, Children's Librarian, Charles L. Durham Free Library
(Philadelphia, PA)
"Thanks for a great performance!"
-Pam Jaskot, Children's Deptartment, Durham County Library (Durham, NC)
"Your tour of twelve Bucks County libraries in November was a great success!
The children's librarians were very enthusiastic about the programs. The
close correlation of your songs with children's books made this program, "Seven
Nights to Read" especially appropriate for the public library. I was truly a
book-related music event which helped us to celebrate Children's Book Week in great
style.I would highly recommend your programs to schools or public libraries."
-Mary Ann Crozier, Coordinator of Children's Services, Bucks County Free Library (Bucks
County, PA)
"Thank you so much for the wonderful performance you gave at Seaford Library
during the 1999 Summer Reading Program. You were a big hit with children and parents
alike! I hope you'll be back to see us again!"
- Donna Prine, Seaford District Library (Seaford, DE)
"Thank you for a wonderful performance! The program was fun and
entertaining for all ages! The variety of musical styles was great! From rock
to blues to silly songs with book clues! We have had many requests for an encore
performance! Thank you for making "Dive into Books" extra-special!"
- Robin E. Lank, Children's Librarian, Milford Public Library (Milford, DE)
"Thank you so much for your entertaining program today. The children's
faces said it all... They were giggling, smiling, clapping & having a wonderful time.
Thanks so much!"
- Dottie Fitton, Assistant Director, Lebanon Public Library (Lebanon, PA)
"There were 62 people in the room who enjoyed every minute, as you were able
to engage everyone into participating with great enthusiasm."
- Sally Sturm, Director, Mars Area Public Library (Mars, PA)
"I like the way that you involved the audience and the variety of selections.
There was truly something for everyone. You were great!"
- Mrs. Audrey M. Roll, Children's Librarian, Lovett Memorial Library (Philadelphia, PA)
"Thank you for entertaining the troops at Mercer Area Library this morning!
Everyone seemed to enjoy your musical presentation and I especially enjoyed the
audience interaction. Thanks for being a part of our Summer Reading Program!"
- Connie Jewell, Mercer Area Library (Mercer, PA)
"On behalf of the Libraries of Chester County, I want to thank you for your
FANTASTIC performance. The kids certainly LOVE you "guys" and our
librarians were VERY impressed with your focus on the summer reading theme, "Click On
Adventure." We commend you for your originality and for making libraries the
focus of your songs. Thanks again and it was a pleasure working with you."
- Diane J. Gring, Director of Public Relations, Chester County Library System (PA)
"Thank you so very much for bringing your energy, creativity and music to our
community. It was a "Dino-mite" way to bring our Dinosaur Summer up to
speed. We look forward to a return visit to our library. Thanks again."
-Marian Rafal, Head of Youth Services, Bloomfield Township Public Library (Bloomfield
Hills, MI)
"I wanted to thank you for your excellent performance at the Framingham Public
Library on July 15th. Everyone really enjoyed the program. Your songs were
great fun, and we appreciated the pro-book and -library theme of many of them, as well as
the songs with a mystery theme. I heard many very positive comments from patrons
after the show, and even received a few phone calls later complimenting the
performance."
- Kitty Schacht, Children's Services, Framingham Public Library (Framingham, MA)
"Great job! Of all the programs that have come to our library, this was
the best!"
- Parent, Juanita Library (Mifflintown, PA)
"Thanks again for your Great performance at Lancaster! One co-worker
says she occasionally has "Wild Things" and "Errgh" (from Pirate Song)
come into her mind since Sunday."
- Renee Christiansen, Children's Librarian, Lancaster Public Library (Lancaster, PA)
Two of a Kind artist residencies focus on a group songwriting process (including both lyrics and music) and performance. Two of a Kind artist residencies may also include music composition projects, such as composing a "sound setting" of a poem. Through the creative process children learn about cooperation, creativity, compromise, and accomplishment as well as specific information about song writing.
The following are some quotes from a residency we conducted with 7th graders at Upper Perkiomen Middle School, November 1998.
"I learned that everyone has to work together and compromise to write a
song."
- Casey Deephouse
"I learned how to write and compose music a lot better. I learned that if I
work hard at it, it will turn out good. I learned that I could actually make a good
song!"
- Amy Yaskowski
"I learned about many different ways to write a song. I thought it was
really fun and I hope to do it again sometime."
- Brianna Adam
"I learned how powerful songs can be. I learned how to compromise, and
listen to other people's opinions. The final presentation proved that practice makes
(almost!) perfect."
- Katie Haines
"It was fun to go through the process of writing a song to see what a musician's life is like & that would be a great occupation." - Serena Hatcher
"I always had trouble writing songs, and now I can. I really would like
to be a singer when I grow up."
- Heather Schlupp
"I learned that music can make a difference."
- Molly McStravick
"I learned music editing, brainstorming song ideas, and I had fun. I
learned to be loud and sing in front of a group. I usually am not good at things
like that."
- Heather Gery
"I liked that Two of a Kind held themselves back from using their ideas in the song [we wrote]."
"I liked learning how to write the songs. I had really wanted to learn how to do that. The reason is because I want to sing when I grow older. This was very much fun. I wish we could do this every year of school."
"I liked the fact that we had a chance to expand our musical abilities. I would definitely encourage a friend to do this!!"
"When we were writing the songs, I felt like people listened to my ideas. I loved my solo, It felt great to sing in front of lots of people by myself."
[Residency - "A Century of Music" - Trinity Cooperative Day Nursery summer recreation program, Summer 1999]
"Two of a Kind artists, David and Jenny Heitler-Klevans did an outstanding job
of designing a devlopmental and interactive program where children created original music
and wrote original lyrics in a songwriting workshop. Parents were thrilled at the
concert finale to witness and take home a copy of the written piece of music that their
child had helped to compose.One of the many strengths of Two of a Kind artists was their
teaching ability. A cooperative, group process was emphasized and David and Jenny
were skillful and very patient in guiding the song writing efforts of children as young as
six years old. They were adept at maintaining the active interest and participation
of a group of children ranging in age from six through twelve. This was evident in
the final concert where children enthusiastically added costumes and pizzazz to their
performance.Two of a Kind's visit to the Summer Club will be fondly remembered, and some
of what they taught to the children was taught to staff, as well, and will be used in
summers to come with other children."
- Cindy Murray, Trinity Cooperative Day Nursery School Age Coordinator (Swarthmore, PA)
[Residency - "Caring For The Earth" - Oaks Elementary, Spring 1998]
"I wanted to thank you for the wonderful job you did at our school. The
teachers and students enjoyed the 8 days you both were here. My daughter, Jackie and
I had a great time at the final assembly!"
- Heidi A. Houtz, teacher, artist residency coordinator, Oaks Elementary (Oaks, PA)
"You made learning about the environment enjoyable. Thank you for
teaching us how to write songs. We appreciate your great efforts to encourage us to
learn about the environment. We are thankful that you took the time to help us write
a song. It was thoughtful of you to come and share your talent with us."
- Christina Paonessa, Emily Todd, Kelly Clark, Alicia Ward, Sherry Couch, Sarah Czahor,
Cori Mann, students, Oaks Elementary
"Thank you for coming to our school. We enjoyed all the songs that you
taught us. They were interesting. We like the tie to the environment issues.
We thought the song [we wrote] was great. We appreciated everything you've
done for us."
- Chris, Andy and Kurt, 4th grade students, Oaks Elementary
"Thank you for coming to our school to teach us the steps to writing a song.
We appreciate your coming to help the fourth grade write a song. We hope you
can come again. We like you coming to our school."
- Anastasia Torrence, Meghan Fitzpatrick, Kristen Nothnagle, Melissa Stockton-Brown,
Ashely Viteo, 4th grade students, Oaks Elementary
[Residency: Upper Perkiomen Middle School, Fall 1998]
"I would like to thank you again for the marvelous job you did with our
students at Upper Perkiomen Middle School. The students were very excited about
their performance and their songs. I am continually striving, as their music
teacher, to teach them how much fun singing together can be, and through this workshop
they learned that and so much more. It was also very exciting to see such a
cooperative effort from such a cross-section of school population. Somehow, in your
presentation and through your leadership, they seemed to extend themselves beyond the
social barriers that so often govern kids' attitudes and actions at this age. I also
would like to thank you for your professionalism through the whole grant process.
Everything we needed from you, and everything you presented to the kids was so
thorough, well prepared and polished. I am also impressed with your eagerness to
continually seek feedback to improve on what you do."
- Joy Hirokawa, Music Teacher, Upper Perkiomen Middle School
"You worked to draw out all of the students - & you showed great
confidence in their abilities." It was very productive time! You certainly
brought out the best in them!!!
- Susan Miller, Parent, Upper Perkiomen Middle School
"Two of a Kind themes are of learning and loving, caring for all creatures and
the world we live in, and striving for peace and friendship among people. The themes
are richly experienced as the children participate in making their own sounds, creating
their own rhythms, and together discovering harmony through music, words and movement.Kids
and movement and music - Two of a Kind turn the combination into a symphony."
- Kristina Cliff-Evans, Correspondent, Ticket (Montgomery County, PA)
"Two of a Kind is Jenny and David Heitler-Klevans, and this fine local duo has
produced two CDs that include some of their best work. Let me warn you: Two of a
Kind cares about people; they care about the environment; they care about peace. And
this passion for social issues comes through in their music. Unlike artists who hit
you over the head with message while neglecting musical quality, Two of a Kind's latest
efforts combine fun with safety, and combine musical variety with meaningful
message."
-Kathy O'Connell, in a review in MetroKids (PA)
"David and Jenny abhorr sounding preachy. Their songs are funny,
melodious, and encompass a rainbow of style genres from folk to rock to blues to calypso
to reggae to funk to rap. Still, they're quasi-heirs to left-of-center folk singers
like Woody Guthrie, Phil Ochs, Pete Seeger and Tom Paxton - none of whom are strangers to
humor."
- Christopher Potter, News Arts Writer, Ann Arbor News (Ann Arbor, MI)
"Above all, they love kids and music and bringing the two together."
- Patricia O'Brien, Courier-Post (NJ)
