Summary: In my time as a parent, I have witnessed some truly terrible children’s entertainment. From plots that make no sense, to seriously grating music, to JUST PLAIN YELLING FOR 20 MINUTES STRAIGHT, I’ve pretty much seen it all. This is why, when I find something my kids and I both enjoy, I view it as a gift. Enter Will Stroet – fellow Vancouverite, former teacher, father and children’s entertainer. My kids and I recently got our hands on his newest English-language CD, Just Imagine, and I can confirm that it is not only not annoying, but actually downright catchy. I recently had the chance to catch up with Will for the Strocel.com podcast. Will Stroet is a former teacher, whose love of music turned into a career. He performs in both English and French with his Backyard Band. In fact, when Just Imagine launches at the end of this month, it will be released alongside its French-language counterpart, Imagine. (I always make sure to read the word ‘imagine’ with a French accent.) He’s also going on tour, performing a series of CD launch concerts across Canada during the fall and winter. During our podcast, I asked Will how he makes sure his music is both kid-friendly and parent-friendly. We talked about the messages he strives to communicate through his music, and what his daughter, Ella, thinks of his latest CD. I also asked him about his upcoming concert series, and what you can expect if you attend. My five-year-old Jacob has been playing Just Imagine on repeat since it came into our house. After some seriously long-term exposure to the CD, I’m still finding it catchy and non-irritating. If you’d like smart, fun music for your little ones, you’ll want to check out Will Stroet. Hear more about him – as well as some snippets from his new CD – by listening to our podcast: If you enjoyed my conversation with Will, you can pre-order your own copy of Just Imagine at willmusic.bandcamp.com/album/just-imagine. Also, subscribe to the Strocel.com podcast in iTunes, and you won’t miss a minute of my future broadcasts. With school back in session and my blog’s technical issues apparently resolved for the moment, I’m planning more podcasts throughout the fall. I’m in the process of lining several up right now, and I’m excited to share them with you. Also, if you have a podcast idea, please share it with me. I’d love to hear your suggestions!
