Home of MusEducation- a music-based source for education and inspiration
Are you a music student who wants to find your own sound?
Are you a music teacher who wants to help your students find theirs?
You are in the RIGHT PLACE!
WELCOME TO
Home of Pete’s Beat!
Pete’s Beat is the story of a young man who develops a distracting habit of tapping on every available surface. With the help of an inspirational music teacher, Pete learns how to channel his energy more productively into drumming. In the process, he also learns about the instruments of the percussion family, the cultures that shaped them, and, most importantly, about himself.
Check out my interview with Jordan Rich from WBZ/iHeart Radio.
Check out my interview with Kathleen Osborne of Transcendent Authors.
What other parents and educators are saying
Check out this article from parenting advice expert Greg Gorman.
Check out this article about how Pete’s Beat can help people with ADD/ADHD.
“Pete’s Beat is a joyful and heartfelt portrayal of creativity, resilience, and self-discovery. Inspiring and uplifting.” — Sarah Johnson, Literary Relations Coordinator, Book Lover Club
“As a teacher, a mom, and an avid percussionist, I endorse this book on every level. It’s a great story for anyone who feels different, anyone looking for belonging.” — Monica Vegelj, Waldorf Education Specialist
“A wonderful way to introduce different rhythmic instruments to children through storytelling.” — Ian Mikael Kirss (a.k.a., “Djembe Master”)
What other musicians are saying
“Pete’s Beat beautifully elevates community, personal creativity, finding one’s voice, and inclusivity, all in a relatable and compelling narrative. This book is good vitamins! Highly recommended.” — Billy Jonas, Singer/Songwriter & Industrial Re-Percussionist
“Pete’s Beat is a great way for kids (and adults) to learn about percussion and international cultures while developing their own sound.” — Mark Schulman (Pink, Cher, Foreigner, Billy Idol, Stevie Nicks)
“Unique to Pete’s Beat is its glimpse into world percussion, which provides an insightful geographical perspective. All this leads to an enjoyable and educational read.” — Yoron Israel, Chair & Professor of Percussion, Berklee College of Music
“A very nice story that reminds me of when I was caught drumming on my desktop in elementary school!” — Peter Erskine, Grammy-winning drummer (Weather Report, Steely Dan)
“Dreams do come true, just like in Matt Robinson’s book!” — Johnny Bee Badanjek (Bob Seger, Alice Cooper, Mitch Ryder)
What other authors are saying
Pete’s Beat is the children’s book of the year!
Pete is a young character kids can identify with. Learning to fit in at school while being educated about instruments and music. The illustrations are vivid and engaging.
— Doug Hall (author of Legacy of the Skies)
In reading Pete’s Beat,I was immediately engaged by Robinson’s catchy prose and Hubeny’s vibrant illustrations. The adage to “follow your dreams” could not be more delightfully depicted than in this informational mini-masterpiece.
— Rick Marinick (author of Resurrection: A Memoir)
Benefits of music:
Neuroplasticity & Cognitive Flexibility: Music activates multiple brain regions at once, supporting memory, coordination, language skills, and adaptive problem-solving.
Emotional Regulation: Music helps children express and process complex feelings (fear, frustration, excitement) in a safe, creative way that develops self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Music engages children in present-moment awareness. Repetitive patterns and soothing tones lower cortisol and promote relaxation.
Social Connection & Belonging: Playing music with others fosters teamwork, empathy, listening skills, and a sense of shared purpose, all of which are key components in childhood mental well-being.
Self-Esteem and Identity: Children see themselves as capable and unique contributors when they master a song or rhythm. They gain confidence as their abilities are recognized and celebrated.
Narrative Empowerment & Resilience: Seeing characters “like me” succeed allows children to reframe their own challenges—not as limits, but as part of their strength story.
Here is an introductory interview in which I explain my project and ask for support:
IN THE WORKS….
Betty’s Bass
Betty is tired of being teased about her weight issues until a kind music teacher introduces her to the bass. Even though she can physically hide behind the large instrument, her understanding of music allows her to develop the self-confidence to step out in front.
Brad’s Brass
Brad has a stutter that causes others to tease him and makes him feel as if he cannot participate in social situations. When his music teacher introduces him to the trumpet, he finds how using his tongue can help him change tone and tempo and turn his potential obstacle into a benefit.
Wendy’s Winds
Wendy has asthma and is constantly ridiculed for her inability to keep up with her classmates during sports and other activities. She hates using her inhaler as it is always covered with saliva and makes odd noises. Fortunately, she is exposed to the world of brass instruments and comes to learn circular breathing and other impressive breath-control techniques that not only allow her to breathe more easily but also to blast her blues away.
ABOUT ME:
I am a writer and educator who has worked with children and students of all ages and abilities, using music to support them in their growth and development.
I have also profiled some of the world’s most famous artists in publications like Billboard, Rolling Stone, Berklee Today, The Chicago Tribune, and others. I have also written biographies, liner notes, and press releases for Grammy-winning artists, and also for award-winning record labels and radio stations.
In my three decades of teaching, I have seen more and more schools and school districts cut and remove music education programs in favor of high-stakes testing and have seen the losses suffered by millions of students each year as a result of these ill-advised priorities.
Especially after my father was diagnosed with dementia, I became even more interested in how the brain accretes (and loses) knowledge and the effects that things like music can have on the processes. The research is undeniable and incontrovertible- music improves the brain and improves outcomes for those who engage in it.
I have been working for over a decade to develop a book and curriculum that can help students get the benefits of music even if the people who are supposed to be educating them are denying them access.
For more information and to request school visits and other supports, please text 617 877 6264.
