Raised in a musical family, a lover of books from an early age, enraptured by daily sing-alongs at day camp, enchanted by a storyteller who performed at his grade school, Tim Van Egmond had a lot leading him to his chosen profession as a folksinger and storyteller from an early age. No wonder this is what he wanted to do when he grew up!

A gifted performer and artist-educator for close to 40 years, Tim blends together tales, tunes, and songs to bring their wellspring of wisdom, humor, warmth, and excitement.

Music flows in and around his stories through his singing and playing on a wide variety of traditional instruments including hammered dulcimer, guitar, conga drum, and limberjack (a dancing wooden rhythm puppet). His dynamic style of voice and movement brings stories to life, and his knack for encouraging participation makes for high-spirited and engaging programs for all ages. Tim also offers workshops and residencies.

Programs include Building Bridges (multicultural stories of community and connection), Hearing Nature's Voice, Sun and Moon and Stars, Mystery Mastery, Shivers & Shudders, Sing, Say, Laugh, Clap! (for young children), "You Say 'Potato', I Say 'Pomme de Terre'" (celebrating the 400s section of the Dewey Decimal System, Languages), Hats Off To Seniors, Young Fogies & Old Whippersnappers (Intergenerational), and The Story Bag. Each year Tim creates a special performance celebrating the Summer Reading Program theme for libraries. There are also special programs for seasons and holidays throughout the year.

Tim has been chosen for the New England States Touring Program, Hartford Performs, the Massachusetts Cultural Council's STARS Residency Programs, and the New Hampshire State Library's "Kids, Books, and the Arts" program.

Performance Fee: Available upon request

Workshop Fee: Available upon request

Travel: CT, MA, ME, NH, NY, RI, VT, Out of Region

Audience: PreK, Elementary, Teens, Families, Adults

Genres: Folktales, Humorous Tales

Awards: Voted "Best Children's Storyteller" in the Valley Advocate's 1996 "Best of Valley" Awards

Fee support for Tim Van Egmond may be available to nonprofit organizations in New England (outside of Massachusetts) through the New England States Touring (NEST) program of the New England Foundation for the Arts. Click here for more information.

"Tim is a triple treat. He can sing, play instruments, and tell whopping good tales! " - Jane Yolen, renowned author and storyteller.