| Meet Marc Rossio - The Marvelous Toy |
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| Written by Barbara A. Topolosky | |
| Monday, 25 January 2010 | |
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Gahanna resident, Marc Rossio, spends his time playing guitar, composing, singing, This creative children's musician uses " The Marvelous Toy" as his stage name. He borrowed the name from the title of a Tom Paxton song. His spontaneous act fits perfectly with the description of the toy in the song. It went "zip" when it moved and" bop "when it stopped And "whirr" when it stood still Rossio has long curly hair, a beard, and a warm smile. Although Rossio's stage persona is hip, casual, and fun- he is passionate about teaching children about Judaism. In his CD, L'chaim he introduces prayer, jewish holidays, and lighting Sabbath candles He teaches a little Hebrew too In addition, Rossio, composes music for all children. His CD, Batteries Not Included, includes classic children's songs, and Rossio's original compositions. Pottery Barn For Kids sponsors him, and he gives shows throughout the U.S. Nine years ago the Rossios were expecting a new addition to their family. They were not happy that Rossio's job as a graphic artist required long hours; it put a strain on the family which now included daughter, Hannah. When son, Jack, came along, Rossio proudly took on a new job,stay-at-home dad. Things have changed for Rossio since he made that pivotal decision years ago. He is a well-known children's entertainer with several best selling CD's under his belt. XM/SiriusRadio-satellite radio- featured his music on Radio Chanukah. Other artists have recorded his music, and he is now lecturing at conferences like the URJ Biennial that recently took place in Toronto, Canada. He also served on a editorial committee for the URJ to create the best musical TotShabbat CD with an accompanying book. Rossio and his two brothers came from a happy loving Jewish family. His mother taught third grade for many years at Temple Israel Religious School, and his father was the administrator of the temple. Rossio's parents taught their children traditional Jewish values. Performing comes naturally to Rossio. When he was a youngster, he appeared in plays and television commercials. After graduating with a fine arts degree from The Ohio State University, Rossio explored different careers: standup comic, retail clothing salesperson, ad executive, graphic artist,and finally stay-at-home dad. Ironically, his stay-at-home status launched his musical career. When son, Jack, became preschool age, Rossio noticed he admired a group of singing Australians called the Wiggles. Rossio learned some of their songs on his guitar, and Jack paid attention. Jack belonged to a play group, and Rossio decided to sing to the children. The moms were impressed, and one of them suggested he start entertaining at children's birthday parties. "That was the start of my career as a children's entertainer," said Rossio. He started making up his own songs, and they caught on with the birthday party crowd. About the same time, he accepted a job teaching kindergarten at Temple Israel Religious School. He used his songs as a teaching tool, and put together some other children's programs. Not only were the children enjoying the programs, but the parents seemed just as interested. Soon he began doing some Shabbat programs at the Columbus JCC. Agdas Achim preschool students also look forward to his visits. One rainy day Rossio was at Easton Town Center with his children. He happened to have his guitar with him, and he ushered the children into McDonalds. On a whim, he took out his guitar and started playing and singing. This led to a popular weekly appearance at the restaurant. It was time for Rossio to start recording some of his music. He met Dan Green from Amerisound Systems. Dan introduced him to Larry Cook, a string player and sound engineer. They collaborated on his first secular CD, Batteries Not Included . " Dan Larry, and I are like a three legged stool. We make music and laugh along the way,"said Rossio. Jewish organizations, temples, and centers throughout the U.S. invite Rossio to perform. "Marc Rossio is a wonderful composer of contemporary Jewish music and song. Through his music and caring charisma he enables Judaism to come alive for his audience both young and old. Congregation B'nai Torah of Highland Park, Ilinois, considers him to be an integral part of our spiritual community," said Rabbi Debra Nesselson. Rossio's music is on a Craig Taubman CD Compilation "My Very First Jewish Celebrate CD Vol 1, of the international Celebrate CD Series. Taubman says," Marc Rossio aka the marvelous toy is indeed marvelous, and more. He is a skilled performer, a gifted writer and perhaps, most importantly, a real good guy." Daughter, Hannah,is following the family musical tradition. She recently won a role in a Gahanna production of The Sound of Music. She also appears with her father on several YouTube videos. The Rossio's are glad they followed their own instincts, and made their children top priority. " I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for my wife, Lori. Her support, opinions, and role as a sounding board for my music has been a huge part of my career. I'm nothing without her," says Rossio. If you want more information about Rossio, visit his website at www.http://www.themarveloustoy.com/home.htm] |
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| Last Updated ( Monday, 25 January 2010 ) |
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