Angelo Natalie: A Musical Journey from Barney and Friends to Bachelor's Degree over 50 Years after Starting College

As a young composer, this Stamford man penned songs for ‘Barney.’ At 71, he’s getting his music degree

Angelo Natalie: The Musical Maestro’s Path to Academic Achievement and Creative Fulfillment

Angelo Natalie earns Bachelor’s Degree

Angelo Natalie, the mastermind behind numerous songs that captivated children of the ’90s through the popular television show “Barney and Friends,” has accomplished a remarkable milestone in his life. After a hiatus of almost 50 years, the 71-year-old Connecticut resident, hailing from Stamford, recently completed his college classes to earn a bachelor’s degree at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU). This achievement represents the fulfillment of a lifelong goal that Natalie started pursuing in 1970. In this blog, we delve into the inspiring story of Angelo Natalie and his incredible journey from music industry success to academic accomplishment.

Angelo Natalie’s college education began at Edinboro State College near Erie, Pennsylvania. However, he decided to put his studies on hold to pursue a career in the music industry and get married. Natalie’s musical talents eventually led him to write songs for the beloved children’s show “Barney and Friends” on PBS. He found success in the music industry without a formal degree but always felt a sense of unfinished business regarding his education.

In 2018, after several decades, Angelo Natalie made the decision to resume his college education. He auditioned for the music program at WCSU and was accepted. With his dedication and passion for music, Natalie embarked on a new chapter in his life, pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Audio and Music Production. Recognizing the importance of formal education in his field, Natalie was determined to gain the knowledge and skills that would enhance his ability to produce his own music.

For Angelo Natalie, the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong endeavor. Despite his extensive experience in audio music production, Natalie acknowledged the need for a more structured and comprehensive understanding of his craft. Through the various classes, including music theory, arranging, and audio, Natalie gained valuable insights and practical skills that would contribute to his future endeavors. He expressed his gratitude to the professors at WCSU, acknowledging their influence on his growth as a musician and producer.

As graduation approached, Angelo Natalie faced the final challenges of his degree program. He worked diligently on his capstone projects, which included creating a five-song EP in the Contemporary Christian Worship genre and completing a “Designing Your Life” class. Despite the pressure and deadlines, Natalie remained committed to his goals, recognizing that true musicians never stop learning and growing.

Throughout his career, Angelo Natalie achieved significant milestones in the music industry. He worked on faith-based music, composed for national commercials and jingles, and composed the theme package for A&E. However, his most notable contribution came through his work on “Barney and Friends,” where he wrote numerous songs that left an indelible mark on the show’s legacy. Natalie’s musical talents also extended to other children’s programs, including “Boz the Green Bear Next Door.”

Angelo Natalie’s story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that it is never too late to pursue our dreams and achieve our goals. Age should never be a barrier to education and personal development. Natalie’s determination, talent, and love for music are evident in his remarkable journey, making him a true role model for aspiring musicians and lifelong learners.

As Angelo Natalie graduates with the class of 2023, his achievement stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the fulfillment that comes from accomplishing long-held aspirations. The applause he received during his graduation ceremony was not only for the diploma he held but also for the resilience and dedication he displayed throughout his life.

Barney – Theme Song – I Love You Song

Angelo Natalie’s remarkable choice to pursue his bachelor’s degree after a 50-year hiatus exemplifies his unwavering dedication to personal development and the pursuit of his musical dreams. Despite achieving success in his career without a degree, Natalie acknowledges the transformative impact of education and the boundless possibilities it offers for honing his skills and exploring new creative horizons. His story resonates as an inspiring reminder that it is never too late to rekindle our aspirations and embark on a lifelong journey of learning and growth.

As we applaud Angelo Natalie for his exceptional accomplishments, we are reminded to embrace our own aspirations, no matter how long they have been dormant. Like Natalie, may we find the courage to reignite our dreams and embark on the path of lifelong learning, knowing that it is never too late to pursue our passions and create a legacy that inspires others.

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