What People Are Saying
“Our UPK team has worked with River Jack for the past three years. He brings a wonderful combination of musical skill, professionalism, and warmth to every visit. Through guitar playing and engaging songs, he consistently captures the children’s attention and creates a joyful, inclusive environment. The music is always age-appropriate, interactive, and thoughtfully designed to encourage participation, movement, and learning. Our students look forward to his visits, and teachers have observed how positively the performances support language development, listening skills, and social engagement.”
— Mrs. Michele Lafasciano
Universal Pre- K Teacher
Queensbury Elementary “Jack, who serves as the music teacher at Mother Teresa Academy, our small private preschool where he works weekly with children ages 3 to 6. Jack has become an essential part of our school community, bringing not only musical skill but also genuine warmth and patience. One of the clearest signs of Jack’s impact is the way our students respond to him. The children absolutely adore him — they light up the moment he walks through the door and are always excited for “music day.” Jack has a rare ability to make every child feel seen and included, and his classes are filled with laughter, movement. Jack’s lessons are thoughtfully designed to meet children where they are developmentally.
He communicates clearly with staff, arrives prepared, and contributes positively to the nurturing environment we strive to maintain at Mother Teresa Academy. His work enriches our curriculum and strengthens the well-rounded educational experience we offer.
I wholeheartedly recommend Jack for any position involving music education or work with young children. Any school or program would be fortunate to have him.”
— Debbie Maddalone-Kenyon
School Director
1 Executive Park Dr. Halfmoon, NY 12065
518-280-4227Engagement & Fun
“The kids go home singing Jack’s songs and are always smiling from the moment he enters the room until he leaves. His classes are fun, interactive, and the kids love every minute!”
Age Range Flexibility
“Jack started with our Pre-K classroom, and we quickly expanded his program to our Toddler 2 and Preschool rooms. He truly adapts his music to every age group.”
Customization & Creativity
“We’ve worked with Jack to incorporate weekly themes and even created original songs with our Pre-K class. The kids performed their unique piece at graduation, and parents loved it!”
Special Events & Teamwork
“Jack is always willing to join our special events, play music, and interact with the kids and their families. He’s become a cherished part of our team.”
Overall Recommendation
“I would absolutely recommend Jack’s music classes to any childcare center. He’s engaging, flexible, and a true asset to any program.”
— Maddie Tesch
Creative Sprouts Director
518 886 9542“It is my honor and privilege to write this letter of recommendation for Jack Powell also known as River Jack Z. I am the owner of Seedlings To Sprouts, a licensed group family daycare in Buskirk, NY. For the past 3 years Jack has been providing music to my 12 daycare children ranging in age from 6 weeks to 5 years old. He is always on time. Jack has not cancelled music with my kids in the 3 years that he has been providing this service to my daycare. Jack is reliable, dependable, stays later than required to stay, and makes sure that the kids have a blast! It’s obvious how much Jack truly enjoys sharing his love of music with others.
He plays the songs that are favorites for my daycare children. In addition, if there is a song they request or like to sing, and Jack doesn’t know it he learns it for next time. Jack doesn’t just play songs like everyone is used to hearing them. Instead, he puts his own spin, creativity, fun, and love into the song to create excitement and novelty for the children. Working with children aged 6 weeks to 5 years requires flexibility, adaptability, engagement, and genuine care for each child. Jack does this each time he comes to my daycare (currently 2 times monthly).
The most frequently asked question I get from my daycare children on Tuesday is if River Jack Z is coming today. When the answer is yes they can barely contain themselves! When Jack walks in the door I’m pretty sure my neighbors down the street can hear the kids screaming “Jack is here! Jack’s here!” Jack teaches the children to count, to dance, to follow directions, and to love music. The kids don’t even realize that they are learning because to them, Jack is just a taller size version of them who comes to make their Tuesdays extra special. I highly recommend Jack. He is a gifted musician. Jack has this calming presence about him, but it’s clear that he loves to have fun and make sure everyone is having fun right along with him. He brings high energy, laughter, joy, and just an overall feeling of goodness to my daycare. Should you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me at 518-470-3096.”
— Bonnie Bishop Owner Seedlings To Sprouts LLC
518 470 3096“As Cultural Arts Chairperson for Caroline Street Elementary School, I have NEVER gotten such great feedback and vibes from the children, teachers and parents about any other program I’ve brought in. Jack is unbelievably great with the children and, with their input, is gifted in bringing ideas to a wonderful fruition.”
— Karen Ricci, Caroline Street Elementary“Working with Jack was fantastic. He had an instant and natural connection with my students and taught them much more than they composed together. He included advice about what being a working musician is like and how to be an individual no matter what your talents are. The final product was tailored to the style of our school community, and Jack’s amazing musicianship created an authenticity that keeps the music alive. The collaboration throughout the process was a life lesson the students will not forget.”
— Judy Russo, Westmere Elementary “RiverJack Z was a wonderful addition to our Pre-K story time this summer! He is very energetic,engaging, and funny. He has an excellent rapport with the children and parents alike. I highly recommend RiverJack Z for your next Pre-K program.”
— Bambi Pedu
Director, Lake Placid Public Library“River Jack's new musical program for 2-5 year olds is a hit, absolutely terrific! He uses perfect pacing, balancing high energy songs with slower ones, that keeps the little ones interested, involved and up on their feet. Enthusiastic parents and grandparents can join in. I highly recommend this good fun joy filled program.
Stacey and I agreed it was our favorite of our summer programs.
It is a great show Jack.”
— Former Library Director Becky
Peru Free Library“RiverJack Z created such a fun and entertaining program for our toddlers at the Schuylerville Public Library! They danced and sang and had a blast. We've always loved RiverJack Z here, but are so happy that there is a music program just for little ones now too. Highly recommend it!!”
— Caitlin Johnson (she/her)
Library Director
Schuylerville Public Library
52 Ferry Street Schuylerville, NY 12871
Phone 518-695-6641