The Ohio Artist Registry (OAR) is an exciting opportunity for artists to share their work, connect with the creative community, and establish an online presence—all on a free, virtual platform! The OAR encourages artists working in all art forms, throughout Ohio and beyond, to create a profile, which allows them to better promote themselves and their work. Being listed in the OAR provides artists with new opportunities to share their work with clients, galleries, patrons, and audiences. A listing in the OAR does not confer an endorsement, approval, or verification by the Ohio Arts Council.
For more information, contact Kathy Signorino, artist programs director, at kathy.signorino@oac.ohio.gov or 614-728-6140.
2025 Ohio Artist Registry Juried Exhibition
April Mann
Storyteller, Songleader, Teaching Artist Goldenthread CreativeCincinnati Ohio 45226 United StatesHome 3635 Morris Place County: OH
Cincinnati Ohio 45226 United States Home Phone: 5134762050 Website: April Eight Website: The Cinci Sing Website: Goldenthread Creative — coming soon!
Bio
April Combs Mann is a storyteller, song leader, and seasoned teaching artist who blends traditional story, folk song, and original work into imaginative, participatory arts experiences. Her work is grounded in oral tradition, emotional well-being, and the power of shared voice.
A former classroom teacher with years of experience developing curriculum and leading arts-integrated learning, April brings a strong pedagogical foundation to every program she designs. Her K-8 as well as college-level teaching background, combined with her creative work as a writer and performer, allows her to meet learners of all ages with clarity, compassion, and joy.
April’s journey began as the lead singer and songwriter of the alt-rock band Arson Garden, with whom she toured internationally and recorded several critically acclaimed albums. Over time, she shifted her focus to acoustic music and storytelling, creating April Eight Songs & Stories, a long-running beloved podcast for families, and founding Cinci Sing, a regional network of community singing gatherings that prioritize accessibility and well-being.
Through her studio, Goldenthread Creative, April offers workshops, residencies, and seasonal performances that nurture creativity, cultural appreciation, and connection. Her programs align with Ohio Learning Standards in Music, English Language Arts, and Social and Emotional Learning.
Artist Statement
I believe that story and song are among our oldest, most powerful tools for building empathy, connection, and inner resilience. As a teaching artist, I create participatory arts experiences that invite learners into shared rhythm, imagination, and expression. My work is rooted in oral tradition and seasonal cycles, shaped by years of teaching, performing, and listening closely to what children respond to most deeply.
In classroom and community settings, I lead residencies and workshops that blend traditional storytelling, simple puppetry, and folk music. For younger students, I often adapt familiar fairy tales and folk tales into interactive performances that include singing, movement, and even puppet-making. These sessions help students explore language, character, and emotional nuance in a way that feels natural and joyful.
In my “Songs for Peace” project, 2nd–5th graders collaborate to write original songs centered around values like compassion, kindness, courage, and care for the Earth. Students contribute lyrics, melodies, and ideas, and together we craft songs they carry with them as a community. These sessions build confidence, collaboration skills, and pride of authorship. This is poetry. This is creative expression. This is finding meaning. We break down what peace means for each community and dig deeply to breathe truth into the songs we write.
For these experiences, my guitar travels with me into the teaching space not just as an instrument, but as a foundation. Its rhythm grounds the group, supports story moments, and opens up shared musical experiences.
With a background in classroom teaching and curriculum design, I understand how to scaffold learning and adapt to the needs of each group. Whether I’m working with children, families, or intergenerational communities, my goal is always the same: to spark wonder, nurture expression, and help every participant feel the joy of belonging through song and story.