OmniArts has 28 programs available in Music. Artists available for these programs include vocalists, instrumentalists, and a variety of cultural and ethnic musicians.

Bess Bonnier Trio

This trio presents jazz music from different eras - swing, dixie, bebop, etc. - using piano, woodwinds and bass. The two men and one woman talk about their roles as musicians, and about their instruments, which also include 3 saxophones, clarinet, and flute. They involve the students by encouraging clapping along to jazz versions of songs familiar to them. A question and answer period is often included.

Renaissance Fun

This program concentrates on the music and culture of the late English Renaissance (1550-1650). The husband and wife duo dress as middle-class musicians of the time and have various age-appropriate programs. They bring to life the popular music of Shakespeare’s time with an assortment of authentic wind, string, and percussion instruments (recorder, dulcimer, flute, etc.). Their programs delight and challenge students and teachers alike.

Marcus Belgrave Ensemble

This ensemble presents a unique demonstration lecture concert, and uses math terms to “edutain” about the inherent qualities of jazz. They begin with an up-tempo tune, then each musician is featured in a solo to showcase his instrument. Marcus involves the audience by having them count the song's rhythm along with the musicians. The program may include a hand-clapping piece.

Men's Voices in Pop Music

This a cappella male quartet has a lively, witty show. In their program, they demonstrate their vocal depth with special songs that accentuate the differences between bass, baritone, and tenor ranges. Music varies from the tenor’s favorite, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” to Motown songs. Four part harmony is the basis of this light-hearted, educational and often wacky show. This is a fast-paced, fun and entertaining assembly, engaging the audience from the first song to the last!

Confirmation Jazz Society

This show includes musical arrangements composed by leading composers of our century, i.e. Count Basie, Duke Ellington, G G Rice, Oscar Peterson, and a few timely selections, such as “God Bless the Child” that get the childrens' attention. Instrumentation includes keyboard, percussion, bass and acoustic guitars, tenor and alto sax, clarinet, flute and vocals. Each performer takes time to explain his/her instrument, its history, the time spent studying the instrument, and how he/she started.

Tropical Mix

This trio shares the music and culture of the Caribbean Islands. They focus on the steel drum as a unique art form and demonstrate how it is made and played. Different forms of music are included such as calypso, reggae, salsa, soca, jazz and blues. African drums usually accompany the program

Straight Ahead

This group began as one entirely composed of Detroit area Women musicians. They play a wide variety of music incorporating many different styles of jazz on piano, violin, bass, drums, and flute. Their very entertaining presentations include explanation of their roles and of their individual instruments, as well as playing and singing. They relate well to student audiences. A man may substitute for one of the women.

Culture of Roots, Rock, Reggae

This duo presents an exciting cultural tour of the sounds of Jamaica, mon. Mama Michelle and her partner play various instruments to unfurl an enriching experience. Additional elements include information on Ital food, Bob Marley, the Lion of Judah and how to dance with a reggae-style skank. There is audience participation as the children are invited to clap rhythms, sing and dance.

Around the World

This duo combines the magic of the harp with guitar, ethnic percussion instruments and melodic voices. Their fun, interactive concerts offer a dynamic new twist to the stereotypical reputation of the harp. Using a globe, they take the students on a musical whirlwind tour of cultures as they explore languages from Spanish to Hebrew to Sign. A quiz show format includes excellent original songs, sing-a-longs and goofy hats. This is a great introduction to world geography.

World Rhythms

This is a lively program with accompaniment in which 30-40 percussion instruments are used to play the music of 4 continents (North, Central and South America, Africa, Far East, Europe). Some of the instruments are traditional (maracas, bongos, tambourines, triangle), some non-traditional (spoons, real bones, measuring cups, whistles). The rhythms of each culture and origins of the music are discussed. Children are invited on stage to participate.