Book Nook: Darci the Drummer

We all dance to the beat of our own drum, and Darci the Drummer is no exception! Musician and author Jeremy Bridgman has written first book, and will be donated half of the proceeds to benefit musical education programs in Southern California.

I liked this book. I'm a music teacher, and I think it's great to encourage music education in kids, especially if they're interested in it. Darci wants to be a drummer, but her brother isn't always supportive. However, her parents get her what she needs for lessons, and Darci learns what it takes (besides passion) to make her dreams come true.

“Darci the Drumm​er is meant to encourage children to pursue their musical interests and education,” says Bridgman. “In an age where music and arts programs are continuing to see a cut in funding, it’s important to begin fostering the passion for music at a young age.  I hope children of all ages remember the absolute joy Darci experiences when it comes to her love of playing the drums, and to use that joy to connect to their own interests and passions.”

The concept for Darci the Drummer formed as a result of Bridgman’s own musical adventures at a young age, along with the experience of music lessons that his own children are blessed to receive today.Bridgman was also inspired by the delight that has been exhibited by many who have sat down at his drum sets for fun, and the perseverance that he encourages in his children when facing doubt, struggle, and criticism.

I had a chance to interview the author to learn more.

1) Why did you decide to write this book?

The concept for the book came about because of my own childhood experience of desiring to play the drums with my whole heart, along with the experience my own children are having as they are taking music lessons and letting their creativity flow through music, art, and storytelling. Having read many children's books to my own kids as they are growing up, I felt that a story like Darci the Drummer could easily be written and enjoyed by a wide range of children and adults who can relate to the experience of finding a passion early in life and wanting to become great at it. Not only that, but writing a children's book and releasing it became a personal challenge for me, as I was able to learn a lot about the writing process, about editing, about self-publishing, about promoting the book, and much more. In the end, this project morphed into a desire to see the emphasis for music education and parental encouragement grow because of the great things that music has done for my family and for those around me.

2) Why is it so important to encourage musical interest?

Music is known as one of the universal languages. It’s an amazing outlet for creativity, like art or writing, and allows us to convey messages and meaning to those around us in powerful ways. It also helps our brains develop in ways that improve our problem-solving skills, it expands our openness to new and different things, and it connects us to people all over the world. Fostering musical talent, or even just the appreciation for music, can help all people grow in positive directions whether young or old. And when a child starts learning music, it is likely that they will be more receptive and able to learn other subjects like math, language arts, foreign languages, and much more, with greater ease.

3) How can parents who aren't musically involved encourage musicianship in their children?

It can be a struggle for parents who are not musically-inclined to encourage music education and music creation in their children. I would say to them, however, that with the many resources for musicianship that are available today, music is one of the best interests a child can have. As with my previous answer, the benefits to music education and music application are many and varied, and they can last a lifetime. I strongly encourage all parents of musically-interested children to try some of the following: utilize music programs at the schools; start children down the road of taking private music lessons if possible; and if those options aren't tenable, there are many free or low-cost options available such as high-quality YouTube videos, self-instruction books or websites, and others of which they can take advantage. If parents take the time to research some quality avenues for music education in their children, they'll be investing in some great skills in creativity, problem solving, expression, composition, performance, leadership, and teamwork that can enrich them for the rest of their lives.

4) Why is it important to maintain school music programs?

Music and other creative arts fosters beauty, openness, abstract thought, and higher morale in our communities. When we are more open to each other and see more creativity around us, we are more likely to help each other and lift each other up in our needs.  And as I emphasized above, there are many crucial skills that music helps to foster and grow. When it comes to the programs that our children are involved in at school, it seems that the priorities of our public school funding seem to be, in many cases, backwards. Many creative arts programs are continually losing funding, even though creative arts, home economics, mechanics, and more are key industries in our economy. The creative arts heavily involve all areas of science and technology, and should be partnered with STEM classes as far as funding and emphasis. The arts should be regarded with as much respect and emphasis as STEM, history, physical education, civics, philosophy, and more. Unfortunately many children are not privileged enough at home to be able to afford private music lessons, musical instruments, art supplies, computers, or other needed tools, and we need public schools to be able to offer those necessary things to all who would like to pursue the creative arts. 

ABOUT JEREMY BRIDGMAN:

Jeremy is an active member of the Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators and a life-long musician, currently playing the drums in various music groups along with composing and producing music in his home studio, located in the charming downtown Westchester neighborhood of Bakersfield, California. He is also the proud father of four musical children, and husband to a lovely piano teacher and singer. He manages his own company with multiple distinct aspects, consisting of IT services and support; music recording, production, and performance; book authorship; and more.

Darci the Drummer is available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other fine retailers. Learn more by visiting www.darcithedrummer.c om, or connect with the author on Facebook, Instagram, and Go odreads.

 Darci the Drummer is available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other fine retailers. Learn more by visiting www.darcithedrummer.c om, or connect with the author on Facebook, Instagram, and Go odreads.