Marcus Whitworth did a wonderful job entertaining youth on July 2 at the Henryetta Public Library Summer Reading Program. The kids enjoyed listening to him talk about how he loved to listen to his dad play music on his instruments. He also told about learning to play the mandolin, guitar, and harmonica as a young boy.

Whitworth showed the kids some of the instruments that he brought with him. He also told about the history and origin of the instruments. Some of the instruments that he played and talked about were the following: the dulcimer which was invented in the Appalachian Mountains on the east coast; the Native American flute; the tongue drum; and the rain stick. He also had some instruments that were from Africa: the African Kalimba, which is a thumb piano; the African gourd; the African Antelope Kudu horn; the and African djembe drum.

He told the kids about the history of the Kudu horn and that it’s used to tell the soldiers what to do and where to go. He also let the kids play some of the instruments in a musical parade.

Whitworth played some wonderful songs for the kids as well including: “When the Saints Go Marching In;” “How Great Thou Art;” “Mama’s Little Baby Likes Shortening Bread”and” Home on the Range.” The kids also had a great time singing The Wheels on the Bus Goes Round and Round; and Jingle Bells with Whitworth.

He ended the program by encouraging the kids to check out books from the library.

Next week will be the last Summer Reading Program meeting at the civic center. Allen Montgomery, Henryetta High School Band Director, will be the guest speaker at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, July 9.

Children can continue reading through Wednesday, August 1 for prizes.