In early 2004, Trisha (now Asha) Burson-Johnson asked me to compose music for a new musical, to be written and performed by elementary school students in the MyArt program.

 

A jazzy mini-musical by and for kids. "If We Ran the Zoo, Part 2" began as a contest: the elementary schools whose classes came up with the best script won, and their script was rehearsed and performed at their schools by the kids of MyArt.

 

I happily composed the music and played piano at all performances. Afterwards, I brought the kids into the studio to record the show, along with my trusty musical associates Wayne Wayne on flute and Benjamin May on double bass.

 

The kids were a joy to work with, and their energy and enthusiasm are apparent throughout the recording. Fortunately, I had the foresight to document the moment, and now it is my pleasure to share this gem with the world!