3 minute read
The Lullaby Project: A musical celebration of family and community
BY ALINA MURCAR
As many new parents can attest, the feelings of love you have for your very own little human can be difficult to express. Now imagine if you could translate that feeling into lyrics for a customized and professional lullaby that your family can enjoy for years to come.
In a unique blend of creativity, music, and family, the Lullaby Project connects parents with professional musicians to create their very own lullabies for their children.
Through connections at the YWCA Spokane and the Salish School of Spokane, four families worked directly with Spokane Public Library Music Education Specialist Andy Rumsey and local musician Liz Rognes to incorporate their family values, culture, and experiences into their very own lullabies. Spokane Symphony violinist David Armstrong then created an arrangement for a symphony quartet.
The culmination of this inspiring journey took center stage on a Saturday in June, celebrating the unique stories and dreams of four local families.
Tomi Simpson: Embracing Culture and Family Values
For Tomi Simpson, the Lullaby Project was more than just a creative endeavor; it was an opportunity to weave her indigenous culture and family values into a lasting gift for her daughter.
"They did a really good job," Tomi shared. "I showed them an example of a song my daughter listens to, and they tried to reflect that in the song we created. My daughter has loved to drum and sing since forever."
The song incorporated her daughter’s unique name and their native language, emphasizing the importance of land, community, and family.
Jessie Cook: A Journey of Vulnerability and Celebration
Jessie Cook and her family approached the Lullaby Project with open hearts and curiosity. The process began with writing answers to a series of questions, which Jessie used to base their lyrics on a heartfelt letter she wrote to her 17-monthold son, Kit.
“Our hope for you is that your light shines bright and you let it lead you through the night,” Jessie explained. “We wanted to share a message of intuition and support.”
Working with local musician Liz Rognes, Jessie found the experience validating and empowering. The creation of Kit’s lullaby was a celebration of parenthood, vulnerability, and the beautiful journey of watching their child grow and learn.
For Alisha and Lisamerie Meyer, the Lullaby Project was a dream fulfilled. Their daughter, Aurora Breealice, was the inspiration behind their lullaby, a song they hoped she would cherish forever. Aurora’s nickname, LuhLuh, and her love for music made the project even more special.
“My wife has always wanted a child, and her wish finally came true,” Alisha said. “The lullaby talks about the northern lights, which is where her name comes from. Aurora Borealis was my favorite word as a kid.”
Working alongside Library Music Education Specialist Andy Rumsey, the family quickly connected and created a lullaby that highlighted their daughter’s joyful spirit and the deep bond they share.
Brittney Shining: Capturing Sibling Love and Future Dreams
Brittney Shining and her family focused on capturing the relationship between her 8-year-old and 4-year-old daughters. By allowing her daughters to take the lead in the creative process, Brittney ensured the lullaby truly reflected their bond and hopes for the future.
“We let them play around with some ideas and went into the studio,” Brittney recounted. “The song is about their relationship and how they complement each other, no matter what path life takes them on.”
Brittney appreciated the family-friendly environment that nurtured her children’s growth. The lullaby, “Through and Through,” encapsulated the essence of sibling love and the enduring support they will have for each other.
