Jazz vocalist, musical theater performer, and studio owner Kate DeL is a creative powerhouse who uses her talents to connect communities through music. As the owner of Harmony Lane Studio, a studio located in Poland, Ohio, DeL teaches music-centered classes for “kiddos” ages 0-5 and their caregivers. DeL explained that it is not just a music class, but a place to step back from all of the craziness of life.
“When I was a brand new mom and feeling overwhelmed, I couldn't find anything that really met my needs. Then, serendipitously, the opportunity arose for me to create something that did. My husband and family have been incredibly supportive of the venture, and it’s been a blast. We’ve been open for about a year and a half now,” she said.
Her creation, a space where both caregivers and children can find joy, is rooted in a strong mission.
“Our classes are about an hour long, with the first and last 15 minutes for parents to come in, grab a coffee, and let the kids play. It’s about taking a minute from their day to just breathe,” she explained.
The heart of the classes focus on the four pillars DeL designed the curriculum around: music, social and emotional development, fine motor skills, and gross motor skills.
“We separate the kids by age, but we also offer a mixed-age class as well. Our instructors are wonderful at bringing in their own tools and creativity, all while staying true to the core goals we’ve set for the program,” she said.
DeL’s deep connection to music stems from her upbringing in a musical family. Reflecting on her early years, jokingly she shared, “I gave basketball a shot, but after scoring in the wrong hoop, my parents gently steered me toward the arts.”
Starting as a pandemic project in 2020 when the entertainment industry came to a grinding halt, DeL began an endeavor that she has always been passionate about, writing children's books. Marshmallow’s Big Adventures reflects her family’s experiences, with the latest book, Marshmallow’s New Best Friend, welcoming their new daughter into the family.
Before becoming a mother, DeL was always chasing the “next big thing,” constantly moving from one project to another. While she was pregnant with her daughter, she recorded her first album, “Cradle Songs,” which is a collection of lullabies injunction with her friend Alexandre Marr.
Since having her daughter, DeL shared, “It’s no longer about jumping from project to project. Now, it’s about what will fulfill me the most and enrich our lives as a family.” DeL added that her daughter has given her a “super fearless energy” to pursue what truly matters.
“She’s inspired me to do whatever feels right for us in the moment, prioritizing what’s best for our family,” she said.
This newfound perspective has redefined her approach to life and creativity.
This shift in perspective also led DeL back to a familiar background. In October, DeL stepped into the spotlight as “Crystal” in Little Shop of Horrors, presented by The Millennial Theatre Company.
“I got to meet so many great people and work with them. We had three weekends of wonderful sold-out shows,” she said.
Now, DeL is exploring a new path in her singing career as she has just released her new album: “Cheers to Christmas.” The album features a collection of classic Christmas carols, including fan favorites like “Sleigh Ride” and “Winter Wonderland,” but with a lively twist– each track blends traditional holiday tunes with upbeat jazz, giving the songs an innovative and fun vibe. DeL noted that collaboration with her arrangers was a highlight of this album, and said she is “so happy to work with such talented people.”
Since the release of “Cheers to Christmas,” DeL was eager to bring its festive spirit to live audiences. With four album release shows scheduled, DeL is prepared to create an unforgettable holiday experience! She is set to perform at the Christmas Market at The Mansion in Liberty, Ohio on Dec. 6; BLU Jazz in Akron, Ohio on Dec. 7; Con Alma in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Dec. 14; and Ginger Rabbit in Columbus, Ohio on Dec. 21.
Each show, she described, will be like a “cabaret” filled with “talking, community, eating, love, drinks, and holiday spirit, with some great music in the background.” She also hinted that there will be special guest appearances at a few shows!
With each new project, DeL proves that music and art are powerful sources to connect others and spread happiness. Kate DeL’s passion for music shines through every project, reminding us all of the power of song to bring people together.
Instagram (kate_dela) | Cheers to Christmas
You can listen to the full interview here.