Franchisee Debbie Martin Has Big Plans To Make songs for seeds a Household Name by Growing the Brand in New Jersey

It’s no secret that interactive education is important during early ages of child development––perhaps no children's education supplement brand knows this better than songs for seeds .

The interactive musical education franchise is much more than simply a music class. Songs for seeds franchisee Debbie Martin of Livingston, New Jersey wants to show parents how music is a strong catalyst for a child’s education and the cultivation of key developmental skills. With the help of well known local musician Ray Andersen and music executive and co-founder of Starting Five Media , Harris Sterling , Martin is bringing best-in-class music education to enthusiastic children and their families in Livingston, New Jersey.

Apart from the “really good music” that songs for seeds offers, the brand is also dedicated to laying the foundation for early childhood education through music. Each class is diverse and hands-on––giving children the opportunity to sing and play both real and toy instruments, learn a new musical genre from a different region of the world or practice a variety of rhythm patterns. From reinforcing a child’s knowledge of colors and shapes to counting single-digit numbers, songs for seeds does it all—and all through the power of music.

Franchisee background

Prior to joining songs for seeds, Martin was Executive Director of Alumni Relations at the College of Saint Elizabeth where she helped build relationships between alumni and students and increase the engagement among and between the two communities. After 18 years in that role, she had an itch to begin her own business.

“I was looking for an entrepreneurial activity that I’d enjoy doing and would be meaningful for me and the prospective audience,” said Martin.

When a franchise consultant introduced her to songs for seeds, Martin didn’t know much about the brand’s concept, nor did she have any musical abilities. The one thing she was sure about was the positive role that music plays in a child’s ability to learn and absorb knowledge.

“I have no musical abilities whatsoever, but I do know that music paves a way in the world and is a catalyst for lifelong learning, especially for kids,” said Martin. “I used to be a science teacher for middle schoolers and I always incorporated music into my lessons and it worked. It truly catalyzes learning.”

New jersey market

New Jersey currently sits at a population of 8.92 million and, according to the Census Bureau’s 2015 American Community survey, there are 155 different languages spoken in New Jersey alone . Because of New Jersey’s diverse population, and the current demand for culturally-informed supplemental education offerings, as well as how much art is valued in the state, Martin believes songs for seeds will thrive in Livingston.

“New Jersey is constantly attracting families who understand the importance of education,” said Martin. “The state is so diverse and is committed to art and culture. We have over 45 colleges and universities and almost 100 charter schools.”

One of songs for seeds’ innovatie activities, called Music of the World, allows children to be exposed to an array of instruments from around the globe. From an Australian didgeridoo to a steel pan from Trinidad, students get the opportunity to experience instruments other than keyboards, guitars and drums. While New Jersey has an impressive amount of educational offerings already, Martin is confident that songs for seeds will become a household name in the future thanks to its uniquely engaging offering, such as Music of the World.

Growth plans

“I need to figure out how to break through the noise and show people that songs for seeds is a truly effective, engaging and rewarding option for children,” said Martin “I’m trying to make songs for seeds a household name within the community and this is where the brand fits perfectly––it really adds to that welcoming community feel.”

Martin said that she is looking forward to opening her Livingston location with music professionals Andersen, and Sterling. The three officially met in February of 2018 and partnered to open a songs for seeds location in January of 2019.

“It was a wonderful piece of good luck to meet these guys,” said Martin. “It seemed to naturally melt into a partnership. We all wanted to work together and I feel so lucky that these guys are so great.”

Andersen, also known as Mr. Ray, is a musical composer for songs for seeds and has done a lot of work in the supplemental music education industry, wherein he sings about various topics, including bullying, eating healthy, the dangers of drugs and how to make friends.

“Mr. Ray’s personal orientation was obviously going to be compatible with songs for seeds,” said Martin. “He’s personable, gentle and very kind. He truly understands kids.”

Songs for seeds’ discography includes the brand’s proprietary songs along with top 40 hits and classic tunes––meaning both the little ones and their parents can sing along.

“Sterling understands music and the significant role it plays in curricula,” said Martin. “His experience as a music executive definitely helps us as a business. He’s completely in sync to be a part of something that grows and transforms kids in our community.”

Martin and her partners’ songs for seeds location has already attracted several families––there are already 35 kids on the waiting list.. Although the three just opened their Livingston location, Martin, Andersen and Harris are already in the process of preparing to launch a second songs for seeds in Westfield, New Jersey, and even see themselves opening a third down the road.

From the talented musicians to the innovative curriculum, songs for seeds’ concept embodies a creative and engaging offering that delights children and parents alike. Martin stands behind songs for seeds’ concept and is thrilled to be able to offer this creative way of learning to the Livingston community.

“When people say ‘music education isn’t needed,’ it makes me want to pull my hair out because children need it––they really do,” said Martin. “Because songs for seeds transforms a child’s learning experiences, it truly surpasses any other educational option.”