"SymFUNNY" Children's Book

"SymFUNNY" was inspired by watching young children enter the orchestra hall, many for the first time, to experience a live performance of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra where Fleming-Gifford worked as the education director for several years. The concept came to life as Anna and Jeannie captured the viewpoint of young children and their expectations of going to the symphony versus their actual experience.
 
The manuscript sat waiting to be shared until Fleming-Gifford connected with Kira Weber, a Chagrin Falls based artist who shared her time and talents at Fairmount Center for the Arts where Fleming-Gifford is the executive director. Weber’s artistic talents were quickly noticed and after attending an art opening of Weber’s, Jeannie contacted Anna with an “a-ha” moment…Kira was the perfect fit for bringing the concept of SymFUNNY to print. 
 
Whether this playful children’s story is shared as an introduction to symphonic music, the orchestra, to support literacy development or to simply connect with a young child in your life through time spent reading, we hope you will enjoy your time together with SymFUNNY. Designed for ages 3-8 years. 
 
But don't take our word for it, check out some recent reviews on this new release: 
 
“SymFUNNY is charming, imaginative, educational and, most importantly, fun!  It captures the way a child thinks to introduce kids (and adults) to the concert-going experience with delightful pictures and prose that blend together in perfect harmony.” Joan Katz, Education Director, The Cleveland Orchestra
 
"SymFUNNY is an imaginative exploration of a child's first trip to the symphony. The book manages to introduce readers to important musical and language concepts while remaining simple and funny.  Everyone should take a trip to the SymFUNNY!" Sarah Vargo, Children's Services Manager -Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library
 
"The arts are important and my students often do not have the opportunity to discover music and instruments in a meaningful way. SymFUNNY to the rescue! What a creative and engaging way to share music with children! Every child should read this lovely story."  Janice Troha, 1st grade teacher,  Maple Elementary School, Painesville