Billy Jonas facts for kids
Billy Jonas is a talented singer, songwriter, and musician from Asheville, North Carolina. He plays many different instruments. Billy performs for all kinds of audiences, including families and adults.
He is famous for using everyday items as musical instruments. These are often things that people usually throw away! His shows teach everyone that they have music inside them. He also shows how musical sounds can come from common "found objects." Billy Jonas has released 7 albums. He even had a special show on PBS. He has been performing live concerts for over 20 years.
Music Career
Billy Jonas started his music journey in the 1980s. He was a student at Oberlin College. There, he helped start a performance group called "Oberlin College Big Bang Theory."
Later, in Chicago, he had monthly shows called "Bangalong with Billy." In the 1990s, he formed a folk music duo called "The Billys" with Bill Melanson. They performed at many festivals and venues across the country. Billy Jonas also shared the stage with famous musicians like Patty Larkin, Ani DiFranco, and Pete Seeger.
Awards and Special Performances
Billy Jonas has received many awards for his music. His CD called What Kind of Cat are You? won a top award from the American Federation of Independent Musicians. It also received a Parents' Choice Gold Award.
His music videos have also won several Parents' Choice Awards. The New York Times even listed one of his videos as "Best for Kids." In 2010, Billy Jonas and his band were invited to perform at the White House Easter Egg Roll. This was a very special event!
Workshops
Billy Jonas also teaches workshops. These workshops help people learn about different parts of music. Some workshops teach how to make instruments from recycled or found objects. Others focus on songwriting or how to perform on stage. He also teaches workshops for teachers.
Music and Videos
Billy Jonas has released many albums and videos. He has music made especially for families. He also has albums for general audiences.
Some of his albums for families include:
- Build It Back Again (2014)
- Happy Accidents (2009)
- What Kind of Cat Are You?! (2002)
He also has DVDs and VHS tapes:
- Everybody's in the Band (2004)
- Bangin' and Sangin' (2000)
See also
In Spanish: Billy Jonas para niños
