Dara Freimark

My family moved from Brooklyn to Larchmont, NY in 2019 and have two boys – one at Murray Avenue and one at LTNS. We love this community and the wonderful friends we’ve made here! 

Growing up in a home filled with rhythm and music, I first learned to communicate by singing. I was told that as a baby, before I spoke any words, I would sing the first 3 notes of the Sesame Street theme song which meant I was ready to watch the show. All my humming and doodle-y do-ing, landed me the family nickname Dara Doodle. Of course I used to loathe it, but now I love the joyful childhood memories that name conjures, and the magical thinking it inspires when I’m with my students. 

I was a very lucky theater kid; classically trained in voice, with leading roles in school musicals and operas. My senior year of high school I directed a play, and even sang at Carnegie Hall. At the University of Michigan, I got my B.A. in Psychology. Performing took a backseat while I pondered what I was going to be “when I grew up.” 

Two decades later, after working in production and podcast business development for ABC News, Comedy Central, MTV, and WWE (haha yes, wrestling) – I found my way back to music by singing with my kids. 

One day at Pinebrook Park with my little one, I was improvising a song about riding a dinosaur into town, when a group of children gathered around and started laughing and singing with me. At that moment, I knew what I truly wanted to be “when I grew up.” I wanted to nurture creativity, language development, and social connection through music and imaginary play. 

I now lead early childhood music classes for 0-3 year olds, and host Story Time events with my puppet, Yokey, at J. Anderson’s Books in Larchmont. I also work as a private music teacher for neurodiverse children, perform at birthday parties, and offer private music pods.

Clinical studies have shown amazing physical and mental health benefits to singing with others: reduced stress hormones, increased cytokines (proteins that can boost the body’s ability to fight serious illness), reduced anxiety, and an ease in postpartum depression.  

I cherish my students, their caregivers, and the precious bonds they share. My mission and hope is that my families will incorporate music, rhythm and movement into their daily rituals. By creating an inclusive environment, free of judgment and inhibition, I strive to help families develop confidence and self-love as they discover the joys of singing, reading and community – all while getting those wonderful health benefits!