Contact: Madeline Myers, Public Relations and Communications Specialist
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PBS Western Reserve’s “In Tune: Songwriting” Brings Music and Literacy Together for Grades 4–6
NORTHEAST OHIO – Sept. 8, 2026 – PBS Western Reserve’s educational series, “In Tune: Songwriting,” is now available, giving students in grades 4–6 a hands-on way to explore music and English Language Arts (ELA) by writing their own songs in a step-by-step process.
By applying core music and ELA concepts — such as organization, voice and structure — "In Tune: Songwriting" teaches kids the songwriting process in a fun, engaging way. The free, ready-to-use resource includes a short video series, a printable songwriting journal, and a teacher guide designed for easy classroom integration. The materials can also be used in family learning environments.
A follow-up to "In Tune: Everyday Music," the new season is designed for older children in grades 4–6. Local musicians Jake Kouwe, frontman for the Chardon Polka Band, and Esther Fitz, singer-songwriter from Cleveland, co-host the video series.
“We’re really excited to share some helpful practices and the concept of songwriting with younger folks!” said Kouwe. “It can be such a great outlet for ideas and feelings, another tool to help process the world around us.”
“We're delighted to bring the quirky and fun style of ‘In Tune’ to older children through this songwriting series,” said Holly Cartwright, chief education officer at PBS Western Reserve. “With a combination of music and writing, the series encourages creativity while building literacy skills. The video companion guide offers educators and families a toolkit to engage children in their own songwriting.”
The series is nominated for a Public Media Award in the category "Educational Resources for the Classroom" at the 58th Annual Public Media Awards, presented by the National Educational Telecommunications Association.
“In Tune: Songwriting” is funded by the Multimedia Production Project Grant, a joint initiative among the, Broadcast Educational Media Commission, Ohio’s Public Television Stations, and the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce.
The “In Tune: Songwriting” video series, printable songwriting journal, and teacher guide are available now at PBSWesternReserve.org/in-tune.
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About PBS Western Reserve
PBS Western Reserve is a community organization that empowers Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania through the impact of accessible public media and educational services to foster connection and lifelong learning. PBS Western Reserve presents cultural, scientific and artistic programming for awareness and enjoyment; local storytelling and access to trusted regional, state and national public affairs; experiential opportunities and community outreach for people of all ages; and educational initiatives that support the healthy development of youth.
PBS Western Reserve is made up of two separately licensed public television stations (WNEO and WEAO) and an Educational Services division operating under one 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, Northeastern Educational Television of Ohio Inc. (NETO). WNEO was established in 1971, is licensed to the city of Alliance and serves the Youngstown designated television market. WEAO went on the air in 1975, is licensed to the city of Akron and serves the Cleveland-Akron-Canton designated television market. All programming is simulcast on both stations.
