Today I’m sitting down with Antje Zumbansen – singer-songwriter, Berlin resident by choice, and founder of the successful children’s music school Little Music Makers. With a beaming smile and full of passion, she tells the story of her musical journey, which took her from Gütersloh in Westphalia to Boston, and eventually back to Germany.
Who We are
The story behind
Antje Zumbansen
Singer/Songwriterin · Gründerin
Antje, you moved to the US in 1996. What motivated you to take that brave step?
Antje: It had always been my dream to make music and continue to grow. The USA – and Boston in particular – have an incredibly vibrant music scene. Berklee College of Music was the perfect opportunity for me to deepen my skills in songwriting and singing.
You graduated from Berklee with honors – and even received your diploma from David Bowie himself. What was that like?
Absolutely unbelievable! David Bowie was – and still is – a huge inspiration for many musicians, including me. When he handed me my diploma, it was a total goosebump moment. That recognition gave me a huge boost to keep pursuing my musical path.
While in Boston, you won several songwriting awards and released your own CDs. What did that mean to you?
It was a big affirmation of my work. It gave me confidence and showed me that my music resonates with people. With my trio, I performed at many venues in and around New York – a very formative time. One of the most exciting things was that I was discovered by an agent and got the chance to write songs for American TV. That was a fantastically creative phase.
What inspires you when writing your songs?
I draw inspiration from everything – personal experiences, my surroundings, the people I meet. Music is a way for me to tell stories and express emotions.
If you run into an angel, she will probably have a voice like Antje.Allen Foster, Songwriters Monthly
Later, you founded Little Music Makers – a music school for children, taught in English. How did that come about?
Through my experience with kids and parents here in Berlin, I realized how important music is for early childhood development. I wanted to create a space where children could discover the joy of music – together with their parents. It was important to me that the songs also appeal to the adults. When they get involved, a really special energy develops in class – full of fun, connection, and joy.
By now, Little Music Makers isn’t just in Berlin, but also in Hamburg – and even in Munich?
Does the Munich model work just like in Berlin and Hamburg?
Yes, the concept remains the same: mixed-age groups, no prior English knowledge needed, and a special focus on active parent participation. It’s very well received – we get lots of positive feedback. Our courses run for ten weeks, then a new one starts with brand-new music. That keeps motivation high and adds variety.
Thank you for the interview, Antje. It’s truly inspiring to hear how you share your passion for music with such heart – with children, parents, and everyone listening.
Thank you! Sharing music – that’s the most beautiful thing for me.