🇺🇸 Music for Babies #4: LaurelBang

“Music For Babies” is a collection of interviews exploring how music can strengthen the bond between Parents and their babies.

Mathilde aka “LaurelBang” is a composer and performer of lullabies and nursery rhymes, as well as a musical educator who enjoys leading classes that awaken children's musical talents.

What was your own experience with music and musical education as a child, and how do you think it has affected your life?

I started practicing music at a young age but I really began at 13 years old. My father sang in a child choir when he was young, and he sang all the time, which inspired me to join in. It was a revelation, and since then, I have never stopped singing and practicing music and ultimately, made a career out of it.

Can you tell us a bit more about you and your little family?

I’m Mathilde, a 31-year-old mother of two: Andrea, who is 7 years old, and Pio, who is 2 years old. My husband's name is Antoine. We live in a colorful house in a rural village in the south of France. I am a music teacher in the school that I created, as well as in a secondary school (I am taking a break right now). I write music for kids and lullabies, and my social media name is "Laurelbang". I love all kinds of music, but especially baroque, country bluegrass, Jamaican music, and French singers like Barbara.

What is the background, mission, and history of your musical project for kids (school and upcoming album)?

When my first son was born, I found that I had less time for singing. However, after two years, I realized that something was missing in my life, and that was music. So, I decided to create music that drew inspiration from motherhood. It was a long journey as I wrote, composed, and performed everything alone. Several events delayed the project, such as the pandemic, a miscarriage, and another pregnancy. But during my last postpartum, I found the energy to complete it. The album, "Grandir Ensemble" (Growing Together), consists of family songs that aim to make family life easier and smoother. My other dream was to create my own "music introduction school" in a rural village, and I made that dream a reality in September 2022.

How did you incorporate music into your daily routine with your newborn?

It comes naturally to me. I sing with my children all the time, and I've noticed that it helps a lot during challenging moments such as mealtime, diaper changes, and sleeping. It's also a great way to connect with them.

Do you remember your baby's first favorite songs?

Yes, I think we never forget that, and that's why I'm so sensitive when someone tells me that one of my songs is their kid's favorite. My elder child's first favorite song was "One by One" by Cocksparrer (punk music), and my younger child's favorite is "Write My Name" by Wingless Angels (Jamaican music).

Did you use music or sounds to put your babies to sleep? 

Yes, Pio has been listening to the same album, Wingless Angels, since he was born, and I also sing to both of my children to help them fall asleep.

Laurelbang : Instagram