Playing to the kids — Musicians say it's an emotionally rewarding experience

Imagine playing music to a crowd made up of unpredictable kids attempting to climb on chairs and up window blinds.

For some musicians, it would be a scene to avoid. But for others, it's an audience they love to entertain.

"They are the most forgiving audience in the world," said Frances England, a children's musician from San Francisco.

The market for children's music is by no means a practical one, but entertaining kids can also be an emotionally rewarding experience, the musicians say.

Song subjects can range from jumping on the bed to eating vegetables. The rhythms can be lively and upbeat, or soft and gentle lullabies.

Meredith LeVande is a popular New York-based child's musician who not only holds undergraduate degrees in women's studies and English, but also a master's in music and law.

Despite her many career options, LeVande decided to play music for kids. Her DVD "Monkey Monkey Music: The Videos with Meredith Levande," released Dec. 1, showcases her most popular songs.

LeVande said she decided to gear her music toward children because it's a spiritual experience. LeVande's mother was mentally ill, and she had to grow up too quickly.

She hopes her music will help give children a childhood.

She avoids music that is artificial and made up, and tries to be genuine and make people happy.

Having played for more than 570 birthday parties, LeVande acknowledges it can be difficult working with children.

She has seen kids with all different kinds of personalities. She's also seen children attempting to climb on chairs and up window blinds.

Although shows can be a challenge, performing for children is still rewarding, LeVande said.

Deborah Poppink, aka DidiPop, feels the same about playing music for the young.

"Children's music allows the child to feel free in their heart and mind," she said.

"It allows the child to really see the beauty around them."

Poppink decided to enter the market because children's music is her passion. She also believes kids need a lot of structure throughout the day.