A pop-rock band for all insects and ages!
Bee Parks and the Hornets perform high-energy concert parties that combine rockin’ music, puppetry and audience participation to inspire young people to get up and move — both with their feet and in their communities. With all-original songs that promote kindness, equality, self-confidence, social justice, environmental awareness and dancing your heart out, Bee Parks and the Hornets take audience members of all ages on a musical adventure that will open up spirits and imaginations. |
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the buzz
January 2023 - New Song Release!!
We're thrilled to announce the release of our brand new single, "Imaginary Dinosaur" -- featuring our very own Mélissa Smith on lead vocals! Check out the press release below and listen HERE on any of your favorite platforms! The song uses playful rhythms and catchy melodies to help kids articulate when they need “a little cool down alone time”. “I’ve always wanted to write a song that says it’s okay to be shy,” says Mélissa, who wrote the lyrics and sings lead on the song. “There’s nothing wrong with needing to have quiet time to yourself!” The idea originated as an anthem for introverts, to give kids the tools to ask for space and alone time when they need it most. Kids can learn from a young age that it’s okay to say no when it comes to their personal space, and to respect someone else saying no as a complete sentence. The instrumentation for “Imaginary Dinosaur” was arranged by Brittany Parker, founder of Bee Parks and the Hornets. Parker says, “As an introvert myself, I understand the need to recharge through solo time. I wish I had a song like this when I was a kid to help me through those times!” Brittany and Mélissa performed the song live over the summer during the Bee Parks and the Hornets joint tour with folk-music group, Ants on a Log. Audiences responded positively to the tune, with children dancing to the beat and adults remarking on how the lyrics were the perfect fit for their shy kid. The song marks the first Bee Parks and the Hornets song with Mélissa Smith on lead vocals. Mélissa has played bass guitar for many of the group’s live shows since its inception in 2018, and is also a children’s author. Her latest release, “Insects & Me, A-Z,” features bug facts, affirmations inspired by insects, and a refreshingly diverse cast of characters. Mélissa also makes theatrical shows for family audiences, including “The Magician’s Assistant” and the upcoming “Blast Off! (to space) The Show” premiering in March 2023. Read the Lyrics here! |
Download our printable "Imaginary Dinosaur" Door Hangers!
You can color them and hang them on your door when you need a little cool down alone time! ![]()
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Thanks Maine Arts Commission!!
We want to give another HUGE thank you to the Maine Arts Commission for awarding our bandleader Brittany Parker with a Maine Artist Fellowship award in Performing Arts! This award is a huge honor and we are overjoyed to live, create, and play in such a beautiful state. Thanks MAC for your support!
“Funded in part by a grant from the Maine Arts Commission, an independent state agency supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.”
We want to give another HUGE thank you to the Maine Arts Commission for awarding our bandleader Brittany Parker with a Maine Artist Fellowship award in Performing Arts! This award is a huge honor and we are overjoyed to live, create, and play in such a beautiful state. Thanks MAC for your support!
“Funded in part by a grant from the Maine Arts Commission, an independent state agency supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.”