Department of Music to host ‘VeggieTales’ music director

Sept. 13, 2016 | Music |

The Department of Music will host a public reception for “VeggieTales” music director Kurt Heinecke on Thursday, Sept. 15, at 8 p.m. The reception will include a showing of “VeggieTales” clips, question and answer session, and refreshments.

Heinecke will be a guest lecturer on campus for two days. During his stay, he will meet with piano, composition, theory and technology students to speak about a variety of topics.

“I love to be able to share, motivate and inspire students with some of my own experiences,” Heinecke said. “I like to share how varied my jobs were and share the three areas that are important for anyone to be aware of as they head out job-hunting in the world — their craft, their character and their connections.”

Heinecke has spent time as a music teacher, band director, private instrumental teacher, professional touring and studio musician, church music director, freelance composer, and photographer. He is currently writing score for CBN’s “Superbook” series. Heinecke has a bachelor’s degree in music education with an emphasis in band and choral conducting from Luther College.

As the music director at Big Idea Entertainment, Heinecke has spent 22 years crafting and composing music for children’s shows “VeggieTales” and “3-2-1 Penguins,” co-writing songs like “The Hairbrush Song” and “His Cheeseburger.”

“All of us, I hope, have some good childhood memories that we enjoy going back to at times,” Heinecke said. “Songs like ‘The Hairbrush Song’ immediately trigger an emotional response in many people. I love being a part of those memories.”

The reception will be held in Reynolds M201. Admission is free.