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[title]Many of the musical party entertainers on our list may sound familiar—that's because a good chunk of them can be seen (and heard!) frequently at children's events around the city and at music classes at city play spaces. Expect upbeat performances (a lot of the party entertainers even croon popular songs that parents and older guests will know), dance contests and instrument play. Some of the musicians are especially suited for first birthday parties.
RECOMMENDED: All party entertainers in New York City
Astrograss
This popular bluegrass band will pen a personalized song for the birthday kid, host dance contests and play a sweet set. $250 and up for a solo performance; $400 for a two-piece band; $600 for a three-piece band (917-693-4939,astrograssmusic.com/kids)
Bobby Doowah
In the biz since 1993, Bobby Doo Wah entertains with scarves, musical instruments and familiar songs that get kids ages one to five up and grooving. $275 for 30 minutes, $325 for 45 minutes (917-838-4527, bobbydoowah.com)
Brett Band
This early-childhood music educator is well loved at local tot hot spots. He's performed at Apple Seeds, Citibabes, Kidville and NY Kids Clubs, to name a few. Book his three-piece band (drums, piano and guitar) or get him as a solo act. $300 for up to 20 kids (recommended for children under five), $350 for more than 20 kids (brettband.com)
Danna Banana
Singer-songwriter Banana has done tunes for Nickelodeon and Disney, and is tickled yellow to bring his silly songs to your home. Parties include a performance and a package of CDs. $330 and up for 45 minutes (917-744-2358, dannabanana.com)
Jam with Jamie
Local music teacher and actress Jamie and her friends keep young partygoers entertained with tunes on her guitar, singalongs, parachute play, and treats such as bubbles, scarves and shakers. $275 for 45 minutes in Manhattan. Rates vary elsewhere. (305-321-3192, jamwithjamie.com)
Little Rockers
Husband-and-wife team Chris and Jessie sing a combination of original tunes and popular rock songs, like Joan Jett's "I Love Rock and Roll" and the Cars' "Shake It Up." They also bring along instruments for the kids to play with—mini guitars are popular with the younger set. $300 and up for 45 minutes (732-872-4354,littlerockersmusic.com)
Moey's Music Party
The Off Broadway performer Moey—or one of her band members—sings original songs, hosts games and activities using a range of props (maracas, bubbles), and personalizes the tunes to match your party's theme. $495 and up for 45 minutes (917-680-6739,moeysmusicparty.com)
Monkey Monkey Music
Meredith LeVande invites little ones to participate in performances that combine peppy tunes with bubbles. $350 for 45–60 minute solo act; $450 for duo act; $550 and up for band; additional fees for bookings outside Manhattan (212-673-6472,monkeymonkeymusic.com)
Ms. Janis
This musician and educator plays interactive tunes, incorporating props like a parachuted bubble machine. Best for ages three to six. $250 for 45 minutes. (646-696-5671, msjanis.com)
A Sing-Along with Ryan Guitarist
Wisconsin-born guitarist Ryan serenades tots (ages six months to five years) with classic children's songs as well as tunes that parents will enjoy—Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl" is his biggest crowd-pleaser. $250 for 30 minutes, $300 for 45 minutes (646-373-5550, asingalongwithryan.com)