Red Grammer has become somewhat of a sensation. It is not uncommon for him to draw concert goers from hours away.

This Saturday, however, Auburn fans won't have to travel far.

The grammy-nominated man known for his peaceful lyrics and upbeat children's music will perform at 3 p.m. at East Middle School, courtesy of the Montessori School of the Finger Lakes.

Angela Daddabbo said the school, which has a “fierce fundraising committee,” was looking for something to do for the community in celebration of the Week of the Young Child, which also happens to be vacation week for schools.

“A parent mentioned Red Grammer, and someone on the fundraising committee flipped out. She's a huge fan,” Daddabbo said. “There are some hard-core fans out there.”

Some students at the Montessori School have traveled to

Utica and Buffalo, said Gilda

Brower, director of the school, noting that she has used Red Grammer's music for more than 10

years.

The concerts are interactive, Brower said. Children are able to sing along, move from their seats and the show tends to come alive.

But more than the fun, the lyrics are why Brower likes Grammer's music so much. “They are absolutely beautiful,” she said, making reference to the song “I Think You're Wonderful.”

“Its all about self-esteem, the environment and values,” she said.

Red Grammer's original, self-written music helps children learn understanding of others, Brower said, and he does so in a way that puts the world at the children's feet and gets them excited with memorable, upbeat lyrics and tunes.

“He's what the world can't get enough of,” Daddabbo said.

Red Grammer has also made a few adult albums, which have also gained a following, Daddabbo said. “He's like a James Taylor for children.”

Wednesday, the Montessori School even used a Red Grammer song as the theme song of their school play in which the child-

ren dressed up as Greek and Roman mathematicians and philosophers. “You should see the children when they are animated and doing (the motions). They are singing their heart's out,” Brower said.

And all the students are more than excited to get a second chance to sing along Saturday afternoon, she said.

If you go

What: Red Grammer

When: 3 p.m. Saturday

Where: East Middle School

Cost: Adults free, $10 per child, all tickets purchased at the door

Staff writer Laura Boyce can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 236 or at laura.boyce@lee.net