We can expose our children to various art forms in many different ways as long as they see, hear, and experience them. Classical music is just one form of art that brings out a wide range of emotions, thoughts, and feelings in listeners. Personally, I spent many years studying classical piano during my childhood. Although it has been some time since I actively participated in this world, I get to rekindle my experience as I now witness my 9-year-old embracing the world of classical music through the violin.
Would you like to embark on a journey through classical music with your children? While playing an instrument is a great way to do so, I have a fantastic series of book recommendations for you to read in five beautifully written and illustrated books. The “Story Orchestra” series by Jessica Courtney Tickle offers a blend of Music and storytelling, making it perfect for readers of all ages.
“A Child’s Introduction to the Orchestra”
“The Story Orchestra: Four Seasons in One Day”
“The Story Orchestra: The Nutcracker”
“The Story Orchestra: Carnival of the Animals”
“The Story Orchestra: Swan Lake”
I recently purchased these books and would like to give you a preview of the above titles, each of which brings to life a unique musical masterpiece, and I hope to convince you to get your child excited about classical music.
#1. “A Child’s Introduction to the Orchestra”
But first, if your child is wondering what an orchestra is, how it came to be, what kind of instruments play in an orchestra, or what kind of music is played by them, then the first book to purchase is “A Child’s Introduction to the Orchestra” by Robert Levine. It is an engaging and educational book that introduces young readers to classical music and the instruments that make up an orchestra. There are selections of music that you can download and listen to as you read through this book. Your child can listen to the sound of different instruments, which might pique their interest in one of them.
#2. “The Story Orchestra: Four Seasons in One Day”
In “Four Seasons in One Day,” your child will be introduced to Antonio Vivaldi’s famous composition, “The Four Seasons.” This enchanting book invites you to experience the changing seasons through the eyes of a young girl named Isabelle and her dog. As your child follows her adventures, the book comes to life with beautiful illustrations and a built-in button that plays the corresponding pieces of Music. My 4-year-old, with little to no experience with classical music, couldn’t help but return to this book just for the music.
#3. “The Story Orchestra: The Nutcracker”
“The Nutcracker” is a timeless ballet by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and “The Story Orchestra” does an amazing job at capturing the essence of the story. As you flip through its pages, you’ll join Clara on her magical journey through the Land of Sweets. The illustrations will captivate you as you read along, and the sound button allows you to listen to the iconic melodies accompanying this ballet. If you have a little ballerina at home, this book is the perfect gift for them as it demonstrates the graceful movements of the dancers along with the music.
#4. “The Story Orchestra: Carnival of the Animals”
Step right into this musical with “Carnival of the Animals.” This delightful book introduces you to a whimsical world where animals come to life through Music and storytelling. Two brothers who are bored decide to read a book about animals. Before they know it, they are enthralled in a land where the animals come to life. Each page has captivating illustrations and an interactive sound button that plays the corresponding piano musical pieces that are composed by Camille Saint-Saëns. This book is excellent for your animal-loving child who will encounter lions, kangaroos, pretty birds, and even dinosaurs.
#5. “The Story Orchestra: Swan Lake”
“Swan Lake” is a ballet composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The ballet is a story of magic, love, and tragedy. When it first premiered in Moscow, Russia, in 1877, it was not well received; however, it has grown to be one of the most well-loved ballets in the world. “The Story Orchestra:Swan Lake” adaptation ensures that the story remains timeless. As you immerse yourself in the world of Princess Odette and Prince Siegfried, the illustrations and accompanying Music transport you into this dramatic narrative.
These books are available at a fantastic price on Amazon, so don’t hesitate to add them to your collection. Get your hands on these titles today and dive into the world of classical music.
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