The world of children's music has lost a true genius and pioneer.
Gary Rosen, whom many of you first met during his Rosenshontz days, died on April 14, 2007.
Diagnosed with ALS three years ago, Gary passed away peacefully.
When Gary Rosen and Bill Shontz burst upon the scene as Rosenshontz, the genre of children's
music was undergoing a revolution. Gary and Bill, both professional musicians, joined the small
number of artists dedicated to bringing new levels of quality music to the field.
Disappearing were the frequently patronizing, dumbed-down lyrics in children's music.
Disappearing were the sticky-sweet voices and melodies that often characterized the genre.
In came professional instrumentation. (Saxophones in children's music?)
In came subtle humor and enjoyable banter.
In came rock-and-roll!
After Gary and Bill went their own ways, Gary continued to bring his special humor and superb
musical talent to family music. I still love the silly exuberance Gary displays in Heads or Tails
and Eat Your Food, Don't Wear It.
Talented musicians in their own right, Gary's children participated in the albums produced after
ALS prevented Gary first from playing his guitar, then from singing. Listen to Lela's angelic
voice as she joins her father in Opposites.
An old Rosenshontz song became a symbol of Gary's bravery in the face of ALS. The Best That I Can is an inspiration to us all. Edited to include Gary's own disabilities, it's hard
to listen to the last verse of this beautiful song without wanting to cry.
Children (and their parents) for generations to come will be the beneficiaries of Gary's far-reaching
vision and genius.
We send our condolences to Gary's wife, Mary, and their children Lela, Penn, and Eliza.
Good-bye, Gary. We will miss you.
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Songs for Teaching
Using Music to Promote Learning
6632 Telegraph Rd. #242
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
