Wonders Of Nature: Music and Ecology Exploration

In Wonders of Nature: Music and Ecology Exploration, students will uncover how music can reflect the beauty and complexity of Pacific Northwest ecology. Through dynamic lessons that blend rhythm, melody, dynamics, and song structure with ecological themes, they’ll explore the lifecycles of salmon and monarch butterflies, the role of owls in the food chain, the importance of otters as indicator species, and more—using music as their guide.

Over 3-5 interactive sessions, students will engage in hands-on musical activities. They’ll mimic the migration rhythms of salmon and monarchs, use dynamics to represent an owl’s quiet hunt and sudden pounce, and sing in rounds that echo the harmony of an ecosystem. Each lesson builds connections between music and nature while fostering creative expression.

Led by Parent’s Choice Award-winning artist Jessa Campbell, this program emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and environmental stewardship. By the end of the residency, students will not only gain new musical skills but will also deepen their understanding of how music can tell the stories of nature, leaving with a greater appreciation for the world around them.

This program offered by: Jessa Campbell & the Saplings

Details

Program Model: In Class

Art Form: Music

Curriculum Connections: Character Education, Community Building, Language Arts, Science, Social-Emotional Learning

Grades: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, K, Pre-K

Program Requirements: Room set-up: ● Open space for warm-ups & reflection ● Preassigned table groups of 3-4 students

Instruction Language(s): English

Min. Residency Sessions/Classroom: 3

Jessa Campbell & the Saplings

About the Artist

Jessa Campbell & the Saplings

Jessa Campbell is a dynamic Oregon-based performer and recording artist whose career spans a wide range of musical genres. Her journey began as a lead singer and dancer on Holland America Line cruises, where she captivated audiences around the world. She has since shared the stage with legends, performing as a backing vocalist for Wayne Newton, and headlining festivals with LDW, a Talking Heads tribute band. Additionally, Jessa shines as the embodiment of Stevie Nicks in the acclaimed Fleetwood Mac tribute band, Taken by the Sky, where her powerful voice and stage presence bring the iconic music to life. Jessa's passion for children's music sparked the creation of Jessa Campbell & the Saplings, a project that blends catchy, danceable songs with valuable ecology lessons. Her debut album, Can You Feel It, garnered widespread praise and earned a Silver Parent's Choice Award. Her follow-up album, Forest Flow, cemented her as a leading figure in the children's music scene, securing airplay on SiriusXM’s Kids Place Live and earning the prestigious High Five Album of the Week on Kinderling Kids Radio in Australia. Forest Flow also gained recognition from esteemed songwriting contests like the John Lennon, Great American, and West Coast Songwriters competitions, and was featured at international children's film festivals. With her music deeply rooted in Pacific Northwest ecology, Jessa inspires young listeners to connect with nature. Songs like "The Waltz of Trillium & Ant" teach children about seed dispersal, while other tracks explore lifecycles, food chains, and environmental stewardship. Jessa’s remarkable ability to weave science and art together creates an educational experience that is both engaging and impactful, captivating young minds while imparting valuable lessons about the natural world. Jessa's energetic performances bring her music to life in venues ranging from schools and libraries to renowned festivals like Pickathon, NW String Summit, and Treefort Music Fest. Joined by her 5-piece band, her shows are a theatrical, interactive experience where children are invited to sing, dance, and immerse themselves in the stories her songs tell. Her high-energy performances have made her a favorite among families throughout the Pacific Northwest, offering a unique blend of entertainment and education that appeals to kids and parents alike. As a devoted mother, Jessa is committed to creating music and educational programs that not only entertain but also instill a deep love for nature and environmental awareness in future generations. Her work, both as an artist and educator, continues to make a meaningful impact on families and communities across the region, fostering a sense of wonder and stewardship for the world around us.

“Each of these gems would add a spark of life to a unit on STEAM or ecology or make a ride in the car something special” - Stephanie Bange, School Library Journal (5 star review)

Learn More about Jessa Campbell & the Saplings

Program Costs

Please note that the cost of a program is determined based on a variety of different factors including number of sessions, planning hours needed and material costs. Please contact Arts for Learning NW for help determining the actual cost of your programs. Email us at [email protected] or call 503-225-5900, ext 705

Delivery MethodTypeCostDescription
In ClassFamily Arts Night Workshop714.00A 90 minute workshop for students and families, typically in the evening or on weekends.
In ClassSupplies$1 per student for instrument crafting supplies.
In ClassWait Time25.00Time between sessions greater than 1 hour per day.
In ClassPrep Hours71.00Typically 1 hour prep time per day on site
In ClassAdditional Planning86.00
In ClassPlanning Meeting86.00
In ClassMileage/Travel CostsFor sites located more than 15 miles from 97202 area in Portland, an additional mileage fee will be applied using the IRS mileage rate. This program is available within 100 miles of Portland; greater distances possible with lodging.
In Class50 min Workshop Session143.00A 50-minute In-Class session with students.
In ClassResidency Session86.00A 50-minute In-Class session with students.
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