Care Bears

Tuneful trio touches kids and adults

Comments (0) By Nina Korman and Juan Carlos Rodriguez Thursday, Feb 12 2004

SUN 2/15

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Imagine the pressure put on a singer when critics compare his style with venerable musicians like Paul Simon, Raffi, and Mr. Rogers. (Wait a sec, when did Mr. Rogers become a musician? Well, he did sing "Won't You Be My Neighbor?") Such acclaim means he must embrace the songs of disparate cultures, become a New Agey kiddie advocate, and wear a cardigan and sneakers with aplomb. We're not sure Massachusetts-based David Grover does any of the above, but when he gets together with old friends Terry A La Berry, a drummer; and Kathy Jo Barrett, a bassist; to play as David Grover & the Big Bear Band, some sort of magic happens because kids can't seem to get enough of them. Adults get hooked too. Grover, once a lead guitarist and arranger for folk icon Arlo Guthrie, turned to children's music in 1984. He's been giving concerts featuring sing-alongs, clap-alongs, and onstage audience participation ever since. Get a double dose of the group when it performs at 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. during Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children at Gusman Concert Hall (1314 Miller Rd., Coral Gables). Peter the Mime opens the show. An apple juice, balloons, and cookie party follows. Admission is $8 for kids; $10 for adults. Call 305-271-7150. -- By Nina Korman

Hip Eye

What's fresh is expressed

SAT 2/14

Geezers are always trying to figure out the teen mind in the same way investigators try to sort out car wrecks. During the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, young talented minds will be expressing themselves as only they know how, in the Young Artists Gallery at the Woman's Club of Coconut Grove (2985 S. Bayshore Dr.). Several of the top artists from area high schools will be showing their works and creating new pieces on the spot. The gallery will open at 10:00 today and Sunday, February 15. Admission is free. Call 305-446-2909. -- By Juan Carlos Rodriguez