Charette still loves playing for kids

Rick Charette, with or without his Bubblegum Band, has been writing music for children since 1983, when his first album, “Alligator in the Elevator” was released. “Alligator,” along with his nine other albums and his parent-friendly live performances, helped Charette become one of the most beloved children’s musicians in Maine, as well as in other parts of the country. His sweet-natured, funny, upbeat songs have provided the soundtrack to many childhood moments, from the title track to his newest album, “King Kong Chair,” to his classic song “I Love Mud.”

Charette was in Somerville, Mass., helping preschool and kindergarten pupils write songs about many things, including pizza, string and gardens, when we spoke with him. He will perform, with the Bubblegum Band, at 7 p.m. Friday, May 5, at Peakes Auditorium at Bangor High School, in a show sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln School Parent Teacher Organization. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased by calling 884-1030.

What made you want to make music for children?

I was writing songs in college and high school, and I was studying music education and working with children, and I think when [my wife and I] had children of our own, that’s when it all really got started. And my kids were an instant audience. Based on their response, I could tell what held their interest. My first recording came out in ’83 and I’ve been doing it ever since. It’s still vibrant for me. There are certain songs people want to hear, but I also want to keep writing new things.

What do parents say to you about your music and how their kids respond to it?

They often say that it’s saved many car trips, when they have gone places with their kids. I think parents just like it when they hear and see how their kids get engaged with music. They’ll often send me a note telling me how they’ve enjoyed and appreciated the music. The kids make it their own.

What’s your favorite song you’ve ever written?

It has to be “I Love Mud.” That has become the favorite of lots of people. Lots of time my personal favorites are based around new things I’m working on, but as far as to perform, “Mud” is my favorite, just because so many people have made it their own. I meet a lot of people in their 20s, who, when they meet me, their childhood just comes spinning back.

You have a lot of songs about animals. What is your favorite animal and why?

We have cats, so I really like cats a lot. And moose, of course. I don’t know if I could pick one. I like things I’ve seen in the wild, like black bears. I like deer too. They’re so quiet, and have different personalities.

What’s the best part about playing live?

It’s getting people to participate and to join in. It’s been especially exciting to see families enjoying it together, because with some performers, it’s just for the kids and the parents aren’t drawn in at all. But oftentimes, at my shows, the parents are having just as much fun as the kids are. Unfortunately, that sometimes means people go home with songs in their heads that they can’t get out!

Rick Charette in Bangor

Who: Rick Charette and the Bubble Gum Band

When: Friday, May 5, 2006, 7 p.m.

Where: Peakes Auditorium, Bangor High School

Tickets: $8.00

Available at the Grasshopper Shop and the Briar Patch, downtown Bangor, and at the door. To pre-order for pickup at the door, send a check to Abraham Lincoln School PTO, 45 Forest Ave., Bangor, ME 04401. For more information, call 884-1030