Words from The
Little Leaf Community
“Some people make the world a better place just by being in it, and he is one of those people. Through the gift of music and a generous outpouring of genuine kindness, he has positively impacted so many families throughout the numerous Tucson communities he wholeheartedly serves. - Leslie Burbidge Photo
Mr. Nature comes to our site (a pre-school for students aged 3-5 that services students with qualifying disabilities for special education) weekly and has been doing so for years. It is a day students and staff alike look forward to and enjoy. Mr. Nature, not only plays music, but incorporates learning, movement and body awareness into his performances. He engages students, builds relationships with them, encourages and supports them, and has become a trusted adult for them on our campus.
Mr. Nature has become a part of our community and we are so grateful for his involvement and support of our students and program. He is an asset to our community. -Sarah W.
Mr. Nature is able to entertain, not just to little ones but to those in their retirement years as well. Such a talent is rare! - Kathy G.
His positive energy, joy and music were gravitating, and his mission of peace and love through music had an extremely positive effect on not only my children and family, but the whole community. We have been Mr. Nature groupies ever since and have loved the enriching, joyful atmosphere that is Mr. Nature's Music Garden.
- Jessica B., Little Leaf Community Garden
What truly sets Mr. Nature apart is his unwavering passion for nurturing young minds through the power of music. His dedication to his craft and genuine love for teaching are evident in every session. Mr. Nature not only imparts musical knowledge but also fosters a sense of creativity, confidence, and joy in our students. Moreover, Mr. Nature has forged meaningful connections with our students, leaving a lasting impression on each child he encounters. His ability to engage and inspire young learners is truly commendable, and his presence has undeniably enriched the educational experience of our center.
-Maricela V., Tucson Unified School District
Mr. Nature has an undeniable love of community and humanity. Any person who attends his events will quickly notice the depth of his interactions. Beyond the music and joy he offers, is a mentor and leader of compassion uniting a range of diverse people. I have had the privilage of assisting Mr. Nature at the Tucson Children's Clinic, in schools and at public events.
Mr. Nature has a rare ability look beyond the challenges and be guided by his vision of "better together", helping people find the inner resources and inviting that into the group space. He puts under represented populations such as children, medically dependent, and differently abled people, in leadership roles. He connects families of varied backgrounds and demonstrates a unifying path forward for the community at large. Tucson is fortunate to have such a unique talent accessible to families.
- Lynette M., Wisdom Blooming
I cannot say enough about Mr Nature and his positive influence that he has had on my family & community! I have four kids (between 9 and 1). He has been a staple in our lives for the past 7-8 years! We have attended multiple events, had him at parties, and family gatherings. He always brings a positive energy with his music and personality! Words cannot express what he does/ has done for the community and my family! The world truly needs more people like Mr Nature!!!
Peace and love! - Dan B.
Mr. Nature visits children and teenagers on a monthly basis in Pediatrics, the PICO, and the Pediatric Emergency Department. Mr. Nature has a natural way of connecting with children. In the few minutes he spends with each pediatric patient, he is able to help them forget about their pain and fears regarding hospitalization, as they are immersed in a world of music. I have seen teenagers open up to Mr. Nature who have otherwise not spoken to staff members in the hospital. I have seen parents tear up as their toddler smiles for the first time since being admitted to the hospital. Mr. Nature’s influence on this hospital has been incredible. Every interaction with Mr. Nature is meaningful, and every child deserves the chance to sing, learn, and grow with Mr. Nature. -Heather R., Tucson Medical Center
Mr. Nature’s Music Garden offers a unique blend of creative movement, engaging original songs, and mindfulness practices that cater to the developmental needs of all children. Through his dynamic approach, Mr. Nature fosters a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore their creativity, develop their motor skills, and cultivate mindfulness.
In addition to creative movement and music, Mr. Nature incorporates mindfulness practices into his sessions, providing children with valuable tools for stress reduction and emotional regulation. Through simple breathing exercises and guided imagery, he helps children develop a greater sense of self-awareness and resilience, laying the foundation for lifelong well-being. - Jenny Douglas, 2nd St. Children’s School
