ENCINITAS, California (Press Release)– Temple Solel Youth Director and Encinitas resident Craig Parks released his debut children’s CD “Kol Kef”, or “All Fun!”, which features a collection of uplifting songs that encourage kids of all ages to sing out loud and embrace their Jewish heritage.
Recently held at Temple Solel, the CD release party was attended by more than 250 local community members, families and children.
“Craig Parks’ music has a magical influence on his audience,” said Ellen Fox, Temple Solel Religious School Director. “His performances portray a deep love of Judaism, knowledge of the newest and greatest songs, including the songs he writes, an understanding of people of all ages and an enthusiasm that radiates with every note and verse.”
“Kol Kef” includes 14 Jewish favorites including the Togetherness Song, There’s a Dinosaur Knocking at my Door, Hava Nashira and Weave Me the Sunshine, as well as six original songs penned by Parks. The CD’s songs send a clear message – have fun and be kind to one another.
Among the collaborators on “Kol Kef” are: Russell Angelico, the CD’s recording engineer and former drummer for Temple Solel’s teen band; Carlsbad’s Martin Storrow, a nationally known solo artist; Ruby Gorcey-Biblowitz, a former singer for Temple Solel’s teen band; and Jeremy Gimbel, a local song leader from Scripps Ranch.
Director of Youth Programming for Temple Solel in the Cardiff by the Sea neighborhood of Encinitas, Parks also serves as director of the synagogue’s summer camp, called Camp Simcha, for kindergarten through sixth grade students. From day schools and synagogues to camps, Parks has entertained thousands of kids with his music, shtick and high energy.
He has performed with some of today’s best Jewish performers including Rick Recht and Craig Taubman and studied with greats like Debbie Friedman and Danny Maseng. Parks has founded and toured with several local rock bands, and played all over the country at JCC’s, camps, retreats, music festivals and youth events. His performances draw from his 15 years working with youth as a song leader, youth director, educator and camp director.
Evident through Parks’ performances on the album is his connection to the kids, as a portion of the CD’s songs were recorded live and feature some of Parks’ 2009 Camp Simcha campers.
A portion of the album’s sales will benefit the Friendship Circle, an international nonprofit that provides assistance and support to the families of children with special needs. The Friendship Circle fosters friendships between children, teens and young adults with disabilities by providing social, recreational and educational experiences.
“The CD Release concert was amazing and doors are still opening for The Friendship Circle because of it,” said Elisheva Green, Executive Director of the Friendship Circle. “We are so grateful to be a part of Craig’s fun and uplifting Jewish music, which we’ve been enjoying ever since!”
To learn more about Craig Parks, please visit his website.
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Preceding provided by Southwest Strategies for Craig Parks