Bio

Mister Cooper – Award winning children’s music recording artist and educator.

When Ken Cooper volunteered to play music in his son’s kindergarten classroom, little did he know that 16 years later, he’d still be singing with young students at schools, libraries and concert venues. But here he is, now known as Mister Cooper, bringing an array of “songs that teach” music programs to a growing number of children throughout the Sacramento area. With state and local budgets being slashed, arts programs seem to be the first to go. But Aristotle said it best – “an education without music is like no education at all.”

Mister Cooper is a busy musician these days. During the school year, he can be found at five (and counting) elementary schools, presenting a wide range of curriculum-based grade level appropriate programs. He also currently visits three preschools bringing songs, lyrics and movement to help younger children develop and reinforce early literacy as well as other learning and social skills. His after school “Sing-Along Club” enables primary school children to explore the joys of singing with a wider range of songs (and kazoos). Cooper also brings his “Sing-Along Club” to various local libraries, building a community of children and their grown-ups that continues after music time has ended.

Mister Cooper’s newest CD, “Mister Cooper is for the birds (2011),” is a winner of a Fall 2011 Parents’ Choice Approved Award. It’s upbeat, acoustic roots music filled with lots of original songs that are both educational and fun. The new recording captivates listeners with lyrics about birds (of course), the life of a seed, Matilda (a gorilla), Dr. Seuss, gratitude, and helping the earth survive through conservation. Instrumentation includes guitars, mandolins, banjos, kazoos, basses, a tuba, an accordion, a Steinway piano, pedal steel, as well as some fine harmony singing. The sweet sounds of children’s voices can also be heard from time to time. It’s quality music for the whole family. In total, this is a CD that’s guaranteed to make you smile. Previous CD releases include: “Mister Cooper (2006)” and “This World (2009).” More information about Mister Cooper and all three CDs (including lyrics to all of the songs) can be found at MisterCooper.com.

A Fall 2011 Parents’ Choice Approved Award Winner – “Mister Cooper is for the birds”. Acoustic musician and music educator Ken Cooper has an inviting, down-home way with a song, finding inspiration in the interconnectedness of living things, confidence-building (“Yes I Can”) and the joy of reading (“Dr. Seuss Is On the Loose”). Among the highlights: Cooper’s humorous spin on the definition of living spaces (“a peach is a house for a peach pit/a sandwich is a house for ham” in “A House is a House for Me”) and a tribute to that ubiquitous pause-filler, “Um.”
Lynne Heffley © 2011 Parents’ Choice

“The latest CD is another wonderful recording. I really enjoy the sense of fun in your music and your ability to write songs for kids without talking down to them.”
Bill Wagman – “Saturday Morning Folk Show” KDVS radio (Davis, CA)

“My kids sing, dance, and giggle through the entire new CD. Its presence in our home is more than positive. I highly recommend it to all families.”
Keilah Woodard – SacramentoSidetracks.com

“We have truly benefited from your professional demeanor, musical expertise, generosity, and wonderful way with kids.” Sutterville Elementary School

“It’s obvious you have made a connection with these kids that lasts long after the songs are over.” Belle Cooledge Library

“Ken’s commitment and creativity are unparalleled and greatly appreciated by children and parents alike.” Tiny Tot Time Preschool