Sawyer partners with hundreds of educators who are stars in their communities. From inspiring class content to engaging teaching styles, these educators are known for their enriching activities that empower both children and parents alike.

We got the opportunity to chat with Debbie Brukman, who runs her own business teaching interactive music classes to children in Brooklyn, NY, to learn more about how she started her business and how Sawyer helps her business grow.

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! I’d love to hear a bit more about you and why you started your business.

I had been a filmmaker for 15 years, but when my first son was born I decided to pivot to music for small children, and their caregivers. I wanted to create a space for family music where each child and adult can experience music in their own way in a communal environment.

Can you describe an inspiring moment you’ve had as an educator?  

A lot of my songs are interactive with opportunities for the adults and kids to participate.  Recently a three year old that I have had in class since he was a lap baby came out with the most adorable rhyme while making a pretend air guitar out of a lollipop drum. “Have you ever seen a fish that looked DELISH!”

What’s the most rewarding thing about teaching children?  

Child development fascinates me. There is a strong connection between music and development, and the ability to watch it week to week with my own eyes is the most rewarding thing. Oh, and the hugs.

What’s one time a child surprised you and made your day? 

The kids surprise me every day. It always renews my wonder when a child takes first steps in my class, or sings along for the first time, or wiggles a crazy new dance, or offers a drum to a friend.

On a similar note, what’s the funniest thing a child has done in your class? 

Too many to pick one.

Why is after school/extracurricular enrichment and camp so important for children?  

I just believe that music should be part of everyone’s life. These classes provide a positive link between community and music. It also helps develop early language, math, and social skills.

How do you think children can discover their passions when they’re not in school or your programs?   

Children are so naturally observant and curious. I think they will discover their passions by being encouraged to get out and explore.

What is your favorite Sawyer feature? 

I think the ease of making changes. For example, when someone gets sick and can’t come, it is so easy to change them to another class or credit them. 

What's one trick you learned from another educator that you still practice? 

Feeding lines to the group. Meaning calling out the words to a song in between the phrases. Pete Seeger used to do that all the time, and that keeps the adults singing, even when they don’t know the words!

Have you discovered new customers on the Sawyer Marketplace?  

Absolutely! Thank you Sawyer Marketplace!

How do you balance your time between running your business (from an operational perspective) and teaching/connecting with parents and students? 

Well, I’m a neighborhood music teacher, which means I get to run into families all the time and say hi. It is like a village here in Brooklyn and I love getting hugs on the street:)

Has Sawyer helped your business? 

OMG yes. More like saved my sanity. I used to spend many hours a week organizing and individually emailing families, and now they can just sign up online. So easy.