About Tom Knight
Hi — I’m Tom Knight.
I’m a musician, songwriter, and puppeteer who has been writing and performing for children and families since 1987. My first album was released in 1989, and over the years I’ve created seven recordings for families, along with many live programs designed specifically for schools and libraries.
I live in Western Massachusetts, and I spend much of the year traveling to school assemblies and library programs throughout the Northeast.
At a glance
Performing since: 1987
First album released: 1989
Recordings for families: 7
Programs presented: Thousands
Primary settings: Elementary schools, preschools, and libraries
Based in: Western Massachusetts
Work status: Full-time professional performer
Delighting children, with care
I get to spend my days delighting children and families — inviting them into shared experiences filled with music, stories, laughter, and participation.
In recent years, I’ve felt especially inspired to create work that explores kindness, empathy, and standing up for others. These themes feel particularly meaningful to focus on right now.
The messages are always lightly conveyed.
They live inside songs and stories, not lectures, and are offered with warmth, humor, and room for children to make their own meaning.
Music and storytelling create a container where ideas can land gently — and stay.
A performer who meets kids where they are
I always start with a song.
At heart, I’m a songwriter. Music is the foundation of everything I do. The songs come first, and the puppets, stories, and visuals are ways of helping those songs come alive for young listeners.
My programs blend music, storytelling, movement, puppetry, and — in some programs — visuals on a screen. Each element supports the music, giving children more ways to connect emotionally and imaginatively with what they’re hearing.
In larger audiences and theater-style settings, I use projected images and video thoughtfully to provide context for the stories and create a sense of place. The visuals support the puppets and songs without overpowering them, helping children throughout the space stay connected and included.
The technology is always in service of the song and the story — never the other way around.
I don’t talk at children.
I create spaces where they can sing, move, respond, and feel like they belong.
After nearly four decades of performing for young audiences, I’ve learned how to read a room, adjust in real time, and meet children exactly where they are developmentally. Whether I’m presenting a school assembly or a library program, my goal is the same: to create an experience that feels joyful, respectful, and meaningful — for students and for the adults in the room.
Experience schools and libraries can rely on
I’ve presented thousands of programs for elementary schools, preschools, and libraries throughout New England and beyond. Educators often tell me they appreciate that my programs are:
- Age-appropriate and thoughtfully paced
- Inclusive and engaging for a wide range of learners
- Grounded in music and participation, not hype
- Easy to host, with clear communication and preparation
Because this is my full-time work, I take seriously the trust schools and libraries place in visiting performers. From the first email to the final note of the show, I aim to be professional, reliable, and easy to work with.
I’m currently developing a new science-themed program, using music and storytelling to explore scientific ideas in an engaging, age-appropriate way.
Let’s talk
If you’re considering a program for your school or library and wondering whether it’s a good fit, I’m always happy to talk things through.
You can explore my current programs, check availability, or reach out with questions — no pressure, just a conversation.
Thank you for the work you do to support children, families, and communities. It’s a privilege to be part of that work.