What impact can folktales have on children? In episode 56, Bill Gordh, an award-winning banjo player and storyteller, shares his journey from skepticism about theater's importance to recognizing its profound impact through his work with children and folktales. This episode delves into his multicultural folktale books and the transformative power of live storytelling for children. We also discuss his podcast with the World Music Institute, where he features world-renowned musicians and their unique instruments, integrating them seamlessly into folktales. Don't miss this captivating episode that highlights the power of storytelling to bridge cultures, inspire learning, and promote kindness.
Bill Gordh's Links:
Author page
World Music Institute Folktales Podcast
Outline
- 🎭 The Importance of Theater and Storytelling (07:42 - 13:03)
- 3:20 Bill discusses his initial doubts about the importance of theater.
- 5:30 Explains how working with children and folktales reaffirmed the value of storytelling.
- 🌍 Multicultural Folktales (13:03 - 22:59)
- 8:01 Bill talks about his work with multicultural folktales.
- 8:30 story consultant for Scholastic's multicultural big books series.
- 9:35 Discusses the similarities between folktales from different cultures.
- 🎼 Music and Storytelling (22:59 - 32:52)
- 15:35 Bill explains how he integrates music, especially the banjo, into his storytelling.
- 17:50 Describes the benefits of using music to engage children in stories.
- 🎧 World Music Institute Podcast (32:52 - 43:54)
- 21:00 Bill discusses his podcast with the World Music Institute.
- 22:00 Integrating world musicians and their instruments into folktales.
- 24:50 Shares the improvisational nature of the podcast episodes.
- 🏛️ White House Easter Egg Roll (43:55 - 53:19)
- 41:57 Bill shares his experiences performing at the White House Easter Egg Roll.
- 45:51 Describes the types of stories he tells at the event.
- 46:49 Mentions the non-religious nature of the stories and their multicultural origins.
- 🏫 Educational Work and Storytelling (53:19 - 01:03:24)
- 49:50 Bill talks about his long-term work with an Episcopal school and a public school.
- 55:53 Describes how he uses folktales in early childhood education.
- 50:30 Mentions his book '15 Easy Folktale Finger Plays' and its impact.
- 📖 Work with Jewish Synagogue and Adult Education (01:03:25 - 01:12:06)
- 58:10 Storytelling at a Jewish synagogue and his role in their family services.
- 01:04:18 Mentions his storytelling workshops for adults and his book 'Making Room for Everyone'.
- 01:03:05 Shares his thoughts on the importance of
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