Busy Kids Love Music: Recent Episodes
Carly Seifert
Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for the whole family, brought to you by Carly Seifert, the creator of Busy Kids Do Piano. Join Carly as she explores musical styles, composers and terms. You'll listen to loads of great music on the way!
]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "120611f7-be3a-4dd2-8ef6-215b4acc1048" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> ]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:6af7f767-94e8-4889-b1d9-71c853f2ff45-2" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Meet the Woodwind Family We're kicking off a brand-new series on the podcast, and I could not be more excited about it. Over the next few episodes, we're getting to know all four families of the orchestra — strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. (We already spent time with the strings a while back, if you want to catch up first.)
Today it's the woodwinds' turn. I think this family has some of the most colorful, personality-packed voices in the whole orchestra.
In this episode, your kids will learn:
- What actually makes an instrument a "woodwind" (hint: it's not about being made of wood)
- The two ways woodwinds turn breath into sound — blowing across an opening vs. using a reed
- Why the saxophone is technically a woodwind, even though it's shiny metal
- How to tell the flute, piccolo, oboe, clarinet, and bassoon apart by ear
We use Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf as our guide, since he gave some of the best character roles to woodwind instruments — the bird (flute), the duck (oboe), the cat (clarinet), and the grandfather (bassoon). If your family has listened to our episode on Peter and the Wolf before (Episode 122), this one will feel like meeting old friends again.
Free Printable: The Woodwind Family Spotter Download it below and use it while you listen — there's a spot to check off each instrument as you hear it. It's a simple way to keep kids actively engaged instead of just having the podcast on in the background (though honestly, that's fine too — no judgment here).
👉 Download the Woodwind Family Spotter
Listen Along I've linked a curated playlist here so you can revisit these pieces anytime — perfect for car rides, quiet time, or background music during a piano practice break.
Related Episodes to Explore * Episode 122 — Peter and the Wolf * Episode 68 — Sousa's "The Stars and Stripes Forever" (piccolo solo) * Episode 142 — Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue (that famous clarinet glissando) * Episode 169 — Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring (bassoon playing way outside its comfort zone)
Coming Up Next Next episode, we're moving on to the Brass Family — trumpets, trombones, horns, and tuba. (My own daughter plays trumpet, so fair warning, I'm a little biased.)
Subscribe to Busy Kids Love Music so you don't miss an episode of this series, and if you're enjoying it, a quick review helps other music-loving families find the show.
We made it to the final stop on this summer's Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music tour — and what a destination to end on.
The Philippines is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands in Southeast Asia, home to over 110 million people speaking more than 180 languages and dialects. Its folk music is not one tradition — it is many, layered on top of each other over thousands of years: ancient bronze gong ensembles from the highlands and the southern islands, rice harvest chants recognized by UNESCO, Spanish-influenced string ensemble music that became entirely its own thing, and love songs that carried a secret message of resistance hidden in plain sight.
In this finale episode, we explore both sides of Philippine folk music — the indigenous traditions that survived centuries of Spanish colonization, and the hybrid traditions that grew from the meeting of Filipino and Spanish culture. And woven through it all is a theme that has appeared at every stop on this summer's tour: music as the keeper of identity, the carrier of what people are not always free to say out loud.
What We Cover in This Episode * The Philippines' geography, history, and extraordinary cultural diversity — 7,000+ islands, 180+ languages, indigenous peoples alongside centuries of colonial influence * Spanish colonial rule (1565–1898) and how it reshaped lowland Filipino culture while leaving highland and southern communities largely intact * The kulintang — a row of bronze gongs played in ensemble by the Maranao and Maguindanao peoples of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago * The gangsa tradition of the Kalinga people of the Cordillera highlands — flat bronze gongs played communally, one gong per player * The hudhud — a form of epic chanted poetry sung by Ifugao women during rice harvests and funerals, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage * The rondalla — a Spanish-derived plucked string ensemble that became the sound of Filipino fiestas and community celebrations * The harana — a traditional serenade tradition with Spanish roots that developed its own Filipino character, now a disappearing tradition being actively preserved * The kundiman — Filipino love songs from the late 19th and early 20th centuries that carried hidden messages of patriotism and longing for independence under colonial rule * How Filipino-American communities across the United States are keeping these traditions alive today
Free Downloads for This Episode * 🪄 Download your Philippines Passport Stamp (Stop 5 of 5 — your final stamp of the summer) * 🎵 Listen to the Curated Philippines Folk Music Playlist (kulintang, gangsa, hudhud, rondalla, harana, and kundiman) * 🗺 All five summer tour episodes are linked in the show notes (revisit any stop on the tour)
All downloads are available at busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/181
Instruments We Learned About Kulintang — a row of small, knobbed bronze gongs arranged horizontally on a wooden rack, graduated in size from largest to smallest. The player strikes the gongs with two padded mallets, playing melodies across the row while the rest of the ensemble — larger suspended gongs, an agung (large flat gong), and drums — plays interlocking rhythmic patterns around them. Most highly developed among the Maranao and Maguindanao peoples of Mindanao.
Gangsa — flat bronze gongs used in the Kalinga and other Cordillera peoples' folk music. Unlike the kulintang, each gangsa player holds a single gong and contributes just one part to the collective sound — a communal instrument in the most literal sense.
Bandurria, laud, octavina, guitarra, bajo de uñas — the family of plucked string instruments that make up the Philippine rondalla ensemble, all descended from Spanish and Moorish string traditions brought to the islands in the 16th century.
Traditions Featured in This Episode * Kulintang ensemble music — Maranao and Maguindanao peoples of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago * Gangsa — Kalinga people, Cordillera mountains of northern Luzon * Hudhud — Ifugao epic chanted poetry (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage); can last for days, sung by women during rice harvests and funerals * Rondalla — plucked string ensemble music of Filipino lowland community celebrations * Harana — traditional courtship serenade music, currently being actively documented and preserved * Kundiman — Filipino love songs with hidden patriotic meaning, developed under Spanish and American colonial rule
The Kundiman and the Summer's Biggest Theme The kundiman is one of the most moving examples of something we encountered at every stop this summer. Colonial authorities could censor overtly patriotic music — but they couldn't suppress a love song. So Filipino composers wrote love songs that were really about longing for their country and for freedom. We heard the same pattern in Norway (folk music as cultural identity under Habsburg and Danish rule), in Nigeria (rhythms and traditions that survived the slave trade), and in the Czech Republic (village folk songs outlasting centuries of Habsburg suppression). Folk music keeps finding ways to carry what people are not always free to say out loud. That is one of the most fundamental things music does for human beings.
The Complete Summer Tour Stop Episode Destination 1 Episode 177 Puerto Rico 2 Episode 178 Norway 3 Episode 179 Nigeria 4 Episode 180 Czech Republic 5 Episode 181 Philippines Keep Exploring The curated playlist covers the full range of what we heard today — from kulintang ensemble recordings to rondalla fiestas to kundiman ballads. If you want one place to start, find a kundiman recording and listen knowing what you now know about what those songs were really saying. It changes how the music feels entirely.
Enjoying the Podcast? If you've traveled along with us this summer, the very best thing you can do to help us reach more families is to leave a rating and review wherever you listen to podcasts. It truly makes a difference — every review helps new families find the show, and I'm so grateful for each one!
Coming Up Next on Busy Kids Love Music The summer tour may be over, but there's plenty more music ahead. New episodes every two weeks — subscribe so you don't miss what's coming.
Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for music-loving families, created by Carly Seifert of Busy Kids Do Piano. New episodes every two weeks.
Stop 4 on our summer world tour takes us to the heart of central Europe — the Czech Republic, a country about the size of South Carolina with a fiercely proud cultural identity and joyful, irresistibly danceable folk music.
In this episode, we explore the patchwork of Czech folk traditions across its three historical regions — Bohemia, Moravia, and Silesia. We trace how ordinary Czech people held tightly to their music and language through centuries of Habsburg rule, how a small Bohemian dance became a global craze in the 1840s (and never really stopped), and how the warm, layered sound of the Moravian cimbalom gives this region's folk music a character entirely its own. We also visit a composer who grew up the son of a village butcher-turned-folk-musician and went on to become one of the most celebrated names in classical music history — Antonín Dvořák.
Czech folk music didn't just survive foreign rule. It traveled the world.
What We Cover in This Episode * The Czech Republic's geography and its three distinct folk music regions: Bohemia, Moravia, and Silesia * How centuries of Habsburg rule suppressed Czech language and culture — and how folk music became an act of cultural resistance * The Czech national revival of the 1800s and what it produced * The polka — its Bohemian origins, how it swept across Europe and America, and why it's still alive in Czech-American communities across the Midwest and Texas today * The cimbalom — the hammered dulcimer at the heart of Moravian folk ensembles * The verbunk — an athletic Moravian solo dance with roots in military recruitment * Antonín Dvořák and how his folk-rooted upbringing shaped some of the most beloved music in the classical repertoire, including the Slavonic Dances * How Czech folk music is being celebrated and reinvented by younger musicians today
Free Downloads for This Episode * 🪄 Download your Czech Republic Passport Stamp (Stop 4 of 5 — add it to your musical passport) * 🎵 Listen to the Curated Czech Folk Music Playlist (polka, cimbalom music, Moravian folk ensembles, and Dvořák's Slavonic Dances)
All downloads are available at busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/180
Instruments We Learned About Cimbalom — a large hammered dulcimer that sits on legs and is played by striking its many strings with small mallets. The cimbalom produces a bright, percussive, almost bell-like tone, and a skilled player can carry a melody, fill in harmonies, and provide rhythmic drive simultaneously. It's the defining instrument of Moravian folk ensembles (cimbálová muzika).
Button accordion / concertina — common in Bohemian polka ensembles alongside the clarinet, fiddle, and bass, giving traditional polka music its bright, full sound.
Music & Traditions Featured in This Episode * Bohemian polka — fast, two-beat dance music with a bright, bouncy character that became a global phenomenon in the 1840s * Moravian cimbalom ensemble music (cimbálová muzika) * The verbunk — a Moravian solo dance known for dramatic footwork, improvised flourishes, and building intensity * Antonín Dvořák's Slavonic Dances — directly inspired by Czech and Slavic folk dance forms including the polka, furiant, and dumka
A Note on the Polka's Reach Czech immigrants brought the polka to the United States in the 19th century, and it took deep root in communities across the Midwest and Texas — where thriving polka traditions still exist today. If your family has Czech, German, or Polish heritage, there's a good chance polka music is somewhere in your family's musical background.
The Thread Running Through This Summer's Tour At every stop on this tour — Puerto Rico, Norway, Nigeria, and now the Czech Republic — we've found the same story: folk music as a form of cultural survival. When outside powers suppressed a people's language and identity, ordinary people held onto their music. It's one of the most consistent and moving patterns in all of music history, and the Czech story is a particularly vivid example of it.
Episodes Mentioned * Episode 177: Folk Music of Puerto Rico (Stop 1) * Episode 178: Folk Music of Norway (Stop 2) * Episode 179: Folk Music of Nigeria (Stop 3)
Keep Exploring The curated playlist includes traditional Bohemian polka, Moravian cimbalom ensemble music, verbunk dance performances, and Dvořák's Slavonic Dances. Try listening to a traditional polka track first, then the Slavonic Dances — and see if your kids can hear the same rhythmic DNA in both.
Enjoying the Podcast? If you've been traveling along with us this summer, would you take just two minutes to leave a rating and review wherever you listen? It truly helps other families find the show, and every review makes a difference. Thank you so much!
Next Time on Busy Kids Love Music One more passport stamp to go — and it's a good one. Join us in two weeks for the final stop on this summer's world tour. Subscribe so you don't miss it.
Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for music-loving families, created by Carly Seifert of Busy Kids Do Piano. New episodes every two weeks.
Stop 3 on our summer world tour takes us to the continent of Africa — specifically to Nigeria, the most populous country on the continent, home to more than 500 distinct ethnic groups, hundreds of languages, and one of the richest and most diverse musical traditions in the world.
In this episode, we explore the deep roots of Nigerian folk music — from the ancient kingdoms of the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa peoples to the extraordinary talking drum that literally speaks a language, to the interlocking rhythms of the ogene bells that influenced jazz, blues, and gospel music in America. We also talk honestly about how the transatlantic slave trade carried Nigerian musical DNA across the ocean, and how those rhythms survived, took root, and grew into something new without ever losing their essential character. And we connect it all to the contemporary Nigerian music that is shaping global sound right now.
Nigeria's music is not a museum piece. It is alive, evolving, and more influential than most people realize.
What We Cover in This Episode * Nigeria's geography, history, and extraordinary cultural diversity * Ancient Nigerian civilizations: the Nok, the Yoruba kingdoms, the Benin Kingdom, the Hausa city-states, and the Igbo communities * How the transatlantic slave trade carried Nigerian musical traditions to Puerto Rico, Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad, and the American South — and how those traditions survived * The dundun (talking drum) — how an hourglass-shaped drum can reproduce the tones of a spoken language * The Yoruba musical tradition, the Ifá spiritual tradition, and the role of specific drum rhythms in ceremony and community life * Jùjú music — how the Yoruba folk tradition evolved into a modern genre, with King Sunny Ade as a key figure * Igbo folk music — the ọjà flute and the ogene iron bells, with their interlocking rhythmic patterns * How West African interlocking rhythms became the foundation of jazz, blues, and gospel music in America * Afrobeats and how contemporary Nigerian artists are carrying folk traditions into global popular music today
Free Downloads for This Episode * 🪄 Download your Nigeria Passport Stamp (Stop 3 of 5 — add it to your musical passport) * 🎵 Listen to the Curated Nigerian Folk Music Playlist (talking drum performances, jùjú music, ogene bells, and more)
All downloads are available at busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/179
Instruments We Learned About Dundun (talking drum) — an hourglass-shaped Yoruba drum with two drum heads connected by leather cords along the sides. The player holds it under one arm and squeezes the cords while striking it with a curved stick, raising or lowering the pitch with each squeeze. Because Yoruba is a tonal language (where pitch changes meaning), a skilled dundun player can reproduce spoken words and sentences through rhythm and pitch alone. The drum doesn't just accompany music — in many contexts, it is the communication.
Ọjà — a small wooden flute used in Igbo folk music, with a breathy, soulful tone often played in ensemble alongside percussion.
Ogene — large iron bells used in Igbo music, struck with wooden mallets and played in interlocking rhythmic patterns. Multiple bells play different rhythms that weave together into something greater than any single part — a defining feature of West African music more broadly.
Music & Traditions Featured in This Episode * Yoruba dundun (talking drum) music * Ifá ceremonial drumming tradition (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage) * Jùjú music — King Sunny Ade * Igbo ọjà flute ensemble music * Igbo ogene bell music * Afrobeats — Burna Boy
The Connection to Puerto Rico (Episode 177) One of the threads running through this summer's tour: when we listened to Puerto Rican bomba two weeks ago, we were hearing a tradition with deep roots in exactly this part of the world. The rhythms, the call and response, the deep connection between music and community — all of it traveled across the ocean during the slave trade and took root in new soil. This episode helps explain where those roots came from.
Episodes Mentioned * Episode 177: Folk Music of Puerto Rico (Stop 1 of the summer tour) * Episode 178: Folk Music of Norway (Stop 2 of the summer tour)
Keep Exploring The curated playlist in the show notes includes talking drum performances, jùjú music, ogene bell ensembles, and contemporary Afrobeats — so you can hear the full arc from ancient folk tradition to modern global sound. Try listening to a King Sunny Ade track and then a Burna Boy track back-to-back and see if your ears can pick up the rhythmic thread connecting them.
Enjoying the Podcast? If Busy Kids Love Music has been part of your family's summer this year, would you take just two minutes to leave a rating and review wherever you listen? Every review helps other families find the show, and that means more kids getting to hear music like this. I'm so grateful for each one!
Next Time on Busy Kids Love Music Two more passport stamps to go. Join us in two weeks for Stop 4 on the summer world tour — subscribe so you don't miss it.
Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for music-loving families, created by Carly Seifert of Busy Kids Do Piano. New episodes every two weeks.
Our summer world tour continues — and for Stop 2, we're trading the warm Caribbean rhythms of Puerto Rico for something entirely different: the misty fjords, ancient forests, and hauntingly beautiful folk music of Norway.
In this episode, we explore Norway's deep folk music roots, from the Norse storytelling tradition to the extraordinary sound of the Hardanger fiddle — an instrument that doesn't just play a melody but seems to fill the air around it. We also talk about the athletic halling dance, the improvised poetry of the stev, and how composer Edvard Grieg (the very first composer we ever featured on this podcast, back in Episode 2) deliberately wove Norwegian folk traditions into classical music that eventually reached concert halls around the world.
Norway's folk music survived centuries of foreign rule because ordinary people held onto it tightly. That's a story worth hearing.
What We Cover in This Episode * Norway's geography and why the landscape shaped its music * The Norse people, the Vikings, and the rich storytelling tradition behind Norwegian folk music * How folk music became an act of cultural survival during centuries of Danish and Swedish rule * The Hardanger fiddle — what makes it unlike almost any other instrument in the world (hint: it has strings you never touch) * Dance forms of Norwegian folk music: the springar and the halling * The stev — improvised sung poetry, and how it connects to the décima tradition we heard in Puerto Rico * Edvard Grieg and how he translated Norwegian folk music into classical compositions heard around the world * How Norwegian folk traditions are being carried forward by younger musicians today
Free Downloads for This Episode * 🪄 Download your Norway Passport Stamp (Stop 2 of 5 — add it to your musical passport) * 🎵 Listen to the Curated Norwegian Folk Music Playlist (Hardanger fiddle performances, halling dance music, and Grieg pieces that will sound brand new now that you know where they came from)
All downloads are available at busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/178
Instrument We Learned About Hardanger fiddle (Hardingfele) — a Norwegian folk instrument that looks similar to a violin but has four or five additional "sympathetic strings" running underneath the main playing strings. These understrings are never touched directly — they vibrate in response to the notes being played above them, creating a resonant, layered sound that many listeners describe as haunting or ancient. The instrument takes its name from the Hardanger region of western Norway, where it was developed in the 1600s.
Music & Traditions Featured in This Episode * Traditional Norwegian folk melodies * Hardanger fiddle music * The halling — a solo acrobatic dance form accompanied by fiddle, where the dancer and musician carry on a musical conversation (similar in spirit to the bomba tradition we explored in Episode 177) * The stev — four-line improvised sung poetry performed as a kind of musical duel between singers * Edvard Grieg's Norwegian Dances and Peer Gynt Suite
Episodes Mentioned * Episode 177: Folk Music of Puerto Rico (Stop 1 of the summer tour) * Episode 2: Edvard Grieg (the very first composer we ever featured on Busy Kids Love Music)
Keep Exploring The curated playlist in the show notes is a great next step — especially if you want to hear what the Hardanger fiddle actually sounds like in context. Try listening to a piece of Grieg after you've heard some traditional Hardanger fiddle music and see if your ears pick up the connection.
Enjoying the Podcast? If Busy Kids Love Music has been a good addition to your family's learning, would you take just a minute to rate and review the show? It helps other families find us, and that means more kids getting to experience music like this. You can leave a review right in your podcast app — it takes less than two minutes, and I'm so grateful for every single one.
Next Time on Busy Kids Love Music Three more passport stamps to go. Join us in two weeks for Stop 3 on the summer world tour — subscribe so you don't miss it.
Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for music-loving families, created by Carly Seifert of Busy Kids Do Piano. New episodes every two weeks.
We're officially stamping our passports for the first stop on this summer's Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music tour — and we're heading to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico.
In this episode, we explore the rich, layered history of Puerto Rican folk music, from the ceremonial traditions of the indigenous Taíno people to the vibrant rhythms of bomba and plena, to the intricate melodies of the cuatro in música jíbara. Along the way, we also talk about how those deep folk traditions connect to the contemporary music families are listening to today — including a Super Bowl performance you might have seen.
Puerto Rico's folk music tells the story of a people who have carried their culture through centuries of hardship and change, and the music is still alive, evolving, and worth celebrating.
What We Cover in This Episode * What folk music is and why it matters * The Taíno people and their ceremonial music tradition called areyto * How Spanish and African influences shaped Puerto Rican folk music over centuries * Bomba — the drum-driven tradition rooted in the experience of enslaved Africans, where the dancer leads the drummer * Plena — the "sung newspaper" of Puerto Rico, with its distinctive pandereta (frame drum) sound * Música jíbara and the cuatro, Puerto Rico's national instrument * The décima — a form of improvised sung poetry that takes real musical intelligence to perform * How Puerto Rico's folk traditions connect to contemporary artists like Bad Bunny
Free Downloads for This Episode * 🗺 Download your Musical Passport (print and collect stamps as you travel through the summer tour) * 🪄 Download your Puerto Rico Passport Stamp (your first stamp of the summer) * 🎵 Listen to the Curated Puerto Rican Folk Music Playlist (explore bomba, plena, música jíbara, and more)
All downloads are available at busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/177
Music Featured in This Episode * Taíno areyto ceremonial music * Bomba — barril de bomba drum tradition * Plena — pandereta ensemble music * Música jíbara — cuatro melodies and décima singing
Instruments We Learned About Barril de bomba — a barrel drum at the heart of the bomba tradition, often historically made from repurposed rum or salt cod barrels
Pandereta — a handheld frame drum similar to a tambourine (without the metal jingles), used in plena ensembles in multiple sizes playing interlocking rhythms
Cuatro — Puerto Rico's national instrument, a small guitar-like instrument with ten strings arranged in five pairs
Keep Exploring If you want to keep listening after this episode, the curated Puerto Rican folk music playlist linked above is a great place to start. You can listen together as a family and try to pick out the different instruments — can you hear the difference between the deep barrel drums of bomba and the lighter pandereta sound of plena?
Enjoying the Podcast? If Busy Kids Love Music has been helpful for your family, would you take just a minute to rate and review the show? It makes a huge difference in helping other families find us — and it means more kids getting to experience music from around the world. You can leave a review right in your podcast app, and it takes less than two minutes. Thank you so much.
Next Time on Busy Kids Love Music Our summer world tour continues in two weeks with Stop 2. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next destination.
Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for music-loving families, created by Carly Seifert of Busy Kids Do Piano. New episodes every two weeks. busykidsdopiano.com
If you've been listening along to our last few episodes, you've heard a lot of violin — Vivaldi wrote for it constantly, and it's easy to understand why. But the violin has a whole family of relatives, and today we're finally introducing all of them.
In this episode, we meet the four members of the string family:
- The violin — the smallest, brightest member of the family, and the one you've been hearing in our Vivaldi series
- The viola — slightly larger, with a warmer and darker sound (think: a quiet, golden afternoon compared to the violin's bright, sunny morning)
- The cello — deep, rich, and almost voice-like in quality (you may remember it from Episode 30, when we listened to Bach's Cello Suites together!)
- The double bass — the largest member of the family, producing a sound so low you almost feel it as much as you hear it
We also do a fun listening comparison near the end of the episode — all four instruments played back-to-back so your ears can really start to notice the differences.
FREE PRINTABLE: STRING FAMILY SPOTTER SHEET
I created a String Family Spotter sheet to go along with this episode. As you listen to music over the next few weeks — whether from this podcast or anything else you come across — you can use it to check off which string instruments you hear. It's a wonderful way to keep those listening ears active and engaged between episodes.
👉 Download your String Family Spotter Sheet here
EPISODE PLAYLIST
Want to keep listening to the music from today's episode? I've put together a playlist with all the pieces featured, which is perfect to use alongside your String Family Spotter sheet.
🎵 Listen to Episode 176 Playlist here
Music featured in this episode:
- Beethoven: String Quartet in C-sharp minor, Op. 131
- Vivaldi: Spring from The Four Seasons
- Bartók: Bratschenkonzert (viola concerto) — Tabea Zimmermann, Christoph Eschenbach
- Yo-Yo Ma: Bach Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, Prélude
- Xavier Foley: Foley Etude No. 12, "Reconstruction" (double bass)
EPISODES MENTIONED
- Episode 173: Antonio Vivaldi — Life in Venice
- Episode 174: The Four Seasons
- Episode 175: Concerto for Two Violins in A Minor
- Episode 30: Bach's Cello Suites
ABOUT BUSY KIDS LOVE MUSIC
Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for music-loving families, exploring the stories behind classical music one composer (and one piece) at a time. I'm your host, Carly Seifert, creator of Busy Kids Do Piano. Thanks so much for listening — I'm cheering you on as you listen, learn, and create music!
🎹 Learn more about Busy Kids Do Piano: busykidsdopiano.com/membership
In today's episode, we're wrapping up our three-part series on Antonio Vivaldi with a piece that feels both intimate and expressive—the Concerto for Two Violins in A Minor.
If you've been listening along with this series, you already know how much I've loved exploring Vivaldi with you. Today's piece gives us something a little different from The Four Seasons—and it invites us to listen in a whole new way.
🎧 What You'll Learn in This Episode In this episode, we explore:
- What makes a concerto unique (and why this one is extra special with two soloists)
- The difference between major and minor keys—and how that affects the mood of the music
- How Vivaldi uses musical "conversation" between two violins
- What counterpoint is (in a way that kids can actually hear and understand!)
- Why this piece has remained one of Vivaldi's most performed works
📝 Listening Activity (Free Printable) To go along with today's episode, I've created a Musical Conversation Map—a simple, engaging way for your child to follow along as they listen.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD IT
As your child listens, they can:
- Notice when one violin "speaks" and the other responds
- Track when the violins echo or overlap
- Observe how the mood shifts throughout the piece
(It's such a fun way to make listening feel active and meaningful.)
👂 Try This While You Listen As you listen to the concerto together, ask your child:
- Can you hear the two violins taking turns?
- Does one sound like it's asking a question and the other answering?
- Do they ever sound like they're finishing each other's musical sentences?
You might be surprised how quickly they start to hear it.
🎥 Watch + Listen Want to take it a step further? Check out this playlist of performances of Concerto for 2 VIolins in A Minor.
🎹 Want to Go Further? Enrollment for Busy Kids Do Piano is now open!
If your child is enjoying listening to music and you're ready to take the next step into playing, I'd love to support you inside the membership.
👉 Learn more: busykidsdopiano.com/membership
💛 Loved This Episode? If this episode (or this series!) has been helpful for your family:
- Share it with another music-loving family
- Leave a quick review—it truly helps more families find the show
Thanks so much for being here and learning alongside your kids. I'm cheering you on as you create a home filled with music.
In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we continue our three-part series on Antonio Vivaldi with a deep dive into one of the most famous pieces of classical music ever written: The Four Seasons.Even if you've never heard Vivaldi's name before, there's a good chance you've heard this music! Today, we explore how Vivaldi used sound to paint vivid pictures of nature—from birds singing in spring to icy winds in winter.As you listen, you'll discover how music can tell a story without using any words.
Download Your Four Seasons Weather Map Make listening interactive and fun!
Download your Four Seasons Weather Map + Musical Meteorologist Badge by clicking here. With this printable, your child can:
- Draw or write what they hear in each season
- Act like a "musical weather reporter"
- Color and earn their Musical Meteorologist badge
Key Concepts * Concerto: A piece featuring a solo instrument (like the violin) with orchestra * Program Music: Music that tells a story or paints a picture * Baroque Style: Energetic rhythms, contrast, and expressive musical storytelling
Links Mentioned in This Episode Explore different performances and interpretations of The Four Seasons with my curated playlist here.
Enrollment for Busy Kids Do Piano opens May 1! If your child is inspired to not just listen to music—but to play it, join the waitlist here.
Keep Listening Until next time…
🌿 Listen for the sounds of nature around you 🎶 Imagine how those sounds could become music
And as always…keep listening, learning and making music!
In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we begin a brand-new three-part composer series all about Antonio Vivaldi—one of the most famous composers of the Baroque period.
You may already recognize Vivaldi's name from some of his nature-inspired music, but in this series, we're slowing down to take a closer look at his life, his music, and what makes his style so unique. In today's episode, we explore Vivaldi's early life, family, and musical training, and discover how a boy growing up in Venice became a composer known all across Europe.
Download Your Audio Treasure Map Make listening interactive! Click here to download your Audio Treasure Map to follow along and answer questions as you listen.
This printable helps students:
- Listen more carefully
- Remember key details
- Engage with the story of the music
What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎻 How Vivaldi's father helped shape his musical path 🌊 What it was like growing up in Venice—a city full of music and ⛪ Why Vivaldi became known as "The Red Priest" 🎶 How the Ospedale della Pietà influenced his career 🎻 What a concerto is 🎨 How Vivaldi "painted pictures" with music
Links Mentioned in This Episode Be sure to check out the curated playlist of Vivaldi music by clicking here.
Learn more about the Baroque period of music by listening to this podcast episode.
Want to Go Further? If your child is inspired to not just learn about music—but actually play it…
Check out Busy Kids Do Piano, where kids learn step-by-step through engaging, easy-to-follow lessons designed for busy families.
Thanks for listening to Busy Kids Love Music! See you next time as we continue discovering the stories — and the sounds — behind classical music.
March is Women's History Month, and in this special episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we explore a powerful and important question:
If women have been composing for centuries…why were so many of their names forgotten?
Instead of focusing on just one composer, this episode looks at the bigger historical picture — uncovering the social, cultural, and publishing barriers that kept many brilliant women composers from being widely remembered.
You'll hear excerpts from stunning works and discover why these composers deserve a permanent place in music history.
Featured Composers & Works Fanny Mendelssohn (1805–1847) Piano Trio in D Minor, Op. 11 – I. Allegro molto vivace
Clara Schumann (1819–1896) Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 7
Florence Price (1887–1953) Symphony No. 1 in E Minor
Amy Beach (1867–1944) Romance, Op. 23
In This Episode, You'll Learn: * Why women composers were often discouraged from writing large-scale orchestral works * How publishing, performance, and teaching influence which music survives * Why genre bias shaped the way music history was written * How modern musicians are rediscovering and performing long-overlooked works * Why listening itself can be an act of honoring history
Listener Challenge
This week, choose a female composer you don't know well.
Listen to:
- One of the podcast episodes linked below OR
- A piece of her music
A free printable listening guide is available here to help you go deeper.
Previous podcast episodes on female composers to check out and use with your Listening Challenge printable:
Episode 15: Fanny Mendelssohn | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 42: Clara Schumann | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 66: The Life and Music of Florence Price | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 92: Lili Boulanger | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 116: Nina Simone | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 118: Fanny Crosby | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 160: The Life of Imogen Holst | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 171: Margaret Bonds | Busy Kids Do Piano
Thanks for listening to Busy Kids Love Music! See you next time as we continue discovering the stories — and the sounds — behind classical music.
In our last episode, we explored the vibrant creativity of the Harlem Renaissance. Today, we zoom in on one extraordinary composer who stood right in the center of that artistic world: Margaret Bonds.
Margaret Bonds was a pianist, composer, teacher, and trailblazer whose music blended spirituals, jazz, and classical traditions into something uniquely powerful. She believed music could speak up for fairness, dignity, and hope—and she used her voice boldly.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- How Bonds' childhood home in Chicago became a gathering place for Black artists and performers
- Her early success as a teenage piano soloist with a major orchestra
- Her studies at Northwestern University and how she learned to combine classical forms with jazz and spiritual melodies
- Her creative partnership with poet Langston Hughes
- How her music reflected the hopes and struggles of the Civil Rights Movement
🎧 Featured Pieces in This Episode 🎹 Troubled Water A virtuosic piano piece that weaves together the spiritual "Wade in the Water" and the hymn "Amazing Grace" inside a classical sonata structure. Listen for how Bonds blends traditions seamlessly.
🎵 Three Dream Portraits (with Langston Hughes) A song cycle based on Hughes's poetry, including the powerful setting of his poem "I, Too." Bonds' piano writing doesn't just accompany the singer—it helps tell the story.
✨ The Ballad of the Brown King A cantata that tells the Christmas story from the perspective of Balthazar, one of the Three Kings. This moving collaboration highlights Bonds' gift for capturing the emotional heart of poetry.
✊ Montgomery Variations Inspired by the Montgomery Bus Boycott, this orchestral work reflects the courage and determination of the Civil Rights Movement. Bonds believed music could be a voice for justice—and this piece shows exactly how.
Why Margaret Bonds Matters Margaret Bonds helped open doors for future generations of Black musicians. Though her music was overlooked for many years after her death in 1972, it is now being rediscovered and performed on concert stages around the world.
Her legacy connects:
- Poetry and music
- Tradition and innovation
- Personal expression and American history
Listening Challenge As you listen to her music this week, ask yourself:
- Can you hear elements of jazz or spirituals inside classical forms?
- How does the piano part help tell the story?
- What emotions does the music bring out in you?
🎧 Explore the curated Margaret Bonds playlist by clicking here.
If your family enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and help more kids discover the stories behind classical music.
Thanks for listening to Busy Kids Love Music!
In this special Black History Month episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we travel back about 100 years to Harlem, New York—an exciting neighborhood overflowing with creativity, poetry, dancing, painting, and bold new musical sounds. This remarkable time in American history is known as the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural "rebirth" that took place during the 1920s and 1930s. In this episode, we'll explore how music helped shape the Harlem Renaissance—and how the Harlem Renaissance changed the future of American music forever.
What Was the Harlem Renaissance? The word renaissance means "rebirth." During this period, Harlem became a gathering place for African American artists, writers, and musicians who were creating fresh ideas and sharing their voices with the world.
Families arriving during the Great Migration brought musical traditions from many parts of the country. When these styles blended together in one vibrant neighborhood, something extraordinary happened.
In this episode, you'll meet some of the influential artists who helped define Harlem's sound, explore some famous Harlem venues and listen to examples of colorful music with jazz, blues and big band sounds!
Listen Along! Check out the curated Harlem Renaissance playlist here.
As you listen, see if you can spot:
- A steady beat that makes you want to tap your foot
- Instruments taking turns playing solos
- Fast piano patterns
- Bright brass sounds like trumpets and trombones
Coming Up Next… In the next episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we'll focus on composer Margaret Bonds, who collaborated closely with Harlem Renaissance poets and blended classical music with spirituals and jazz colors—carrying the movement's spirit into concert halls and classrooms.
Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss it!
In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we wrap up our three-part series on composer Igor Stravinsky with one of the most famous — and most shocking — pieces in music history: The Rite of Spring.
When this ballet premiered in Paris in 1913, audiences expected graceful dancing and pretty melodies. Instead, they heard pounding rhythms, clashing sounds, and music that felt wild and unpredictable. Some people loved it… and others were so surprised that they began shouting during the performance!
We'll explore why Stravinsky's music sounded so different from anything audiences had heard before and how this bold piece eventually became one of the most important works of the 20th century.
Get ready to listen for thunder-like drums, blasting horns, and rhythms that feel like the earth shaking beneath your feet!
What You'll Learn in This Episode * What a ballet is and how music and dance work together * The ancient spring rituals that inspired The Rite of Spring * Why the music sounded shocking in 1913 * What made the rhythms and harmonies so unusual * The famous "Rite of Spring riot" * How this piece changed the future of classical music
Listening Challenge for Kids When you listen to The Rite of Spring, don't try to hear it as calm or gentle music. Instead, imagine:
- Animals running
- Thunder crashing
- The ground shaking
- People dancing with all their strength
Listen for:
- Loud drums
- Blasting horns
- Fast, exciting rhythms
This is music that feels alive!
Listen to The Rite of Spring We recommend listening to the full ballet here: 👉 Stravinsky's "The Rite of Spring" with Gustavo Dudamel & the LA Phil
About Busy Kids Love Music Busy Kids Love Music is the podcast that helps families explore the music of composers, cultures, and traditions from around the world.
Hosted by piano teacher Carly Seifert, each episode includes kid-friendly storytelling, guided listening tips, and musical discoveries perfect for homeschool lessons, classroom use, or curious music lovers of all ages.
Want More Music Activities? Check out Carly's online piano and music appreciation programs:
- Busy Kids Do Piano — Piano lessons made simple and fun
- Busy Kids Love Music Podcast Archive — Hundreds of composer adventures
- Music History Courses & Homeschool Resources
Igor Stravinsky became famous almost overnight thanks to one magical ballet — The Firebird. In this episode, I'll take you inside the glowing, mysterious world of this Russian fairy tale, filled with enchanted creatures, an evil sorcerer, brave heroes, and powerful music that tells the story without words.
Based on centuries-old Russian folk tales, The Firebird follows Prince Ivan, who captures a magical Firebird and receives a glowing feather in return for her freedom. That feather later helps him defeat Kashchei the Immortal, an evil sorcerer who has trapped princesses and turned travelers into stone. With the Firebird's help, Ivan breaks Kashchei's spell, frees the princesses, and brings peace back to the enchanted forest.
Stravinsky's music brings every moment of this story to life — from the shimmering Firebird theme to the pounding rhythms of Kashchei's Infernal Dance and the glowing, triumphant Finale.
🎵 What You'll Learn in This Episode * The fairy-tale story behind The Firebird * Who the Firebird, Prince Ivan, and Kashchei are * How Stravinsky uses leitmotifs (musical themes for characters and ideas) * How this ballet made Stravinsky famous at just 27 years old * Why The Firebird is still one of the most loved orchestral works today
Kids will also learn how composers use music the same way movies do — giving characters their own musical "voices," just like Darth Vader, Jaws, or Hogwarts!
🎻 Featured Music in This Episode * Suite from The Firebird (1919) – Toronto Symphony Orchestra * Infernal Dance of King Kashchei * Finale from The Firebird – Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel
📺 Listen & Watch Explore famous recordings and watch scenes from The Firebird ballet here: 👉Playlist for Episode 168
🎼 What's Next? This is Episode 2 in our 3-part Igor Stravinsky series. In our final episode, we'll dive into his most shocking and controversial work: The Rite of Spring — the piece that caused a riot!
Until next time… Keep listening and keep learning — because Busy Kids Love Music!
Igor Stravinsky, Part 1: The Composer Who Changed Music In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we begin a brand-new three-part series all about one of the most bold and imaginative composers in music history: Igor Stravinsky. From ballet stages to concert halls, Stravinsky's music changed the way people thought about rhythm, sound, and storytelling in music.
In Part 1, we explore Stravinsky's life story—where he grew up, how he was introduced to music, and how he became one of the most important composers of the 20th century.
We also learn how Stravinsky's life was shaped by major world events, including two world wars, which caused his family to move from Russia to Switzerland, then France, and eventually the United States. Despite all these changes, Stravinsky continued to write groundbreaking music, proving that creativity can thrive even in difficult times. In this episode, we also explore what makes Stravinsky's music sound so different from other composers.
What's Next in the Series? This episode is just the beginning of our Stravinsky adventure! In the next two episodes, we'll explore:
Episode 2: The Firebird – A magical ballet filled with glittering orchestral sounds and fairy-tale characters
Episode 3: The Rite of Spring – The shocking, groundbreaking work that caused one of the most famous moments in music history
🎧 Listen along with our Stravinsky playlist here
Thanks for listening to Busy Kids Love Music! Join us next time as we step into the magical world of The Firebird.
We've reached the final episode of 2025, and we're celebrating the year with something special: The Great Re-Listen Challenge! This fun year-end episode invites your family to revisit some of our favorite musical adventures from the past year — all paired with themes like Road Trip Listen, Dance Party Listen, and Bedtime Listen.
Whether you've listened to Busy Kids Love Music for years or pressed play for the very first time in 2025, thank you for making this podcast part of your musical journey. This episode is all about reflecting, reconnecting, and rediscovering the music we explored together.
🎶 What Is the Great Re-Listen Challenge? I've selected five favorite episodes from 2025, each perfect for winter break. Families can choose one, two, or try all five! To make it even more fun, download the Re-Listen Challenge Checklist linked below so kids can check off episodes as they listen.
🎧 Your 2025 Re-Listen Challenge Picks 1. Road Trip Listen — Episode 140: New Year's Day Parade Music Start your travels with music bursting with energy! In this upbeat episode, we explore the marching bands and festive sounds that bring New Year's Day parades to life.
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Creativity Time — Episode 148: Music Inspired by Planet Earth Perfect for arts and crafts time. Listen while you draw, paint, or build — this imaginative, Earth-themed music is full of color and inspiration.
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Bedtime Listen — Episode 161: Imogen Holst's Fall of the Leaf Soft, peaceful, and calming. This gentle cello piece feels like autumn leaves drifting through the air — a beautiful way to wind down before bed.
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Dance Party Listen — Episode 154: Folk Music of Colombia Turn your living room into a dance floor! With joyful rhythms and irresistible beats, this episode will get everyone moving.
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Story Lovers Listen — Episode 144: The Life of Blind Tom Wiggins One of my favorite episodes of the year. Blind Tom's story is inspiring, powerful, and unforgettable — a must-hear for kids and grown-ups alike.
📄 Free Download: Re-Listen Challenge Checklist Make listening interactive! Download your checklist here. Kids can track their progress and choose which listening adventure to do next.
💛 Thank You for an Amazing Year Thank you for learning, listening, and exploring music with me throughout 2025. Join me for our first public enrollment period of the year for Busy Kids Do Piano and Busy Moms Do Piano beginning January 1st.
Get ready for a festive round of What Was That Sound?—our special holiday edition! In today's episode, we explore four magical instruments that help create the twinkling, sparkling, joyful sound of Christmas music. Kids will listen to short audio clues and try to guess each instrument before the answer is revealed. It's a fun, interactive way to train their ears and learn musical facts!
To make the experience even more hands-on, don't forget to download the free What Was That Sound? printable worksheet linked here. Kids can write down their guesses, take notes and share what they've learned using this fun printable.
🎧 What You'll Hear in This Episode Today's four mystery instruments all play a special role in holiday music:
- Hear the shimmering, fairy-like instrument made famous in Tchaikovsky's Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Learn how Tchaikovsky fell in love with this brand-new instrument and kept it secret before the premiere of The Nutcracker!
- Discover how a certain instrument's peaceful, angelic sound creates a warm glow underneath Christmas classics like O Holy Night and appears in many holiday film scores.
- Learn how a certain instrument was originally used on real horses (hint: safety!)—and how composers from Mozart to Leroy Anderson added them to music to create a joyful, snowy atmosphere
- From Handel's Hallelujah Chorus to jazzy renditions of Jingle Bells, this instrument brings sparkle, celebration and energy to holiday music across many styles.
📄 Free Printable: What Was That Sound? — Holiday Edition Make listening interactive! Kids can track their guesses, jot down fun facts, and bring music learning to life by downlading this printable.
🔗 Explore More Music * Episode 18: The Trumpet | Busy Kids Do Piano * Episode 52: The Harp | Busy Kids Do Piano * Episode 111: Sleigh Bells | Busy Kids Do Piano * A curated playlist of all four festive musical selections here
✨ Merry Christmas from Busy Kids Love Music! Thank you for joining me for this joyful, interactive musical celebration. From my family to yours—Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! I'll see you next time on Busy Kids Love Music.
]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "120611f7-be3a-4dd2-8ef6-215b4acc1048" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this week's episode of Busy Kids Love Music*, we're welcoming the Christmas season with a beautiful and expressive work by English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams — a musician who adored both folk tunes and the charming old carols passed down through generations.
🎶 What You'll Hear in This Episode In Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Vaughan Williams weaves together three traditional English carols into one imaginative and atmospheric piece for baritone, chorus, and orchestra:
- The Truth Sent from Above
- Come All You Worthy Gentlemen
- On Christmas Night All Christians Sing (often known as The Sussex Carol)
You'll learn:
- Why Vaughan Williams was passionate about preserving English folk music
- What a fantasia is and how this piece "daydreams" from one idea to another
- How the composer added "hidden" carol fragments throughout the music
- Why this work was meaningful during World War I
- Details about the piece's 1912 premiere at the Three Choirs Festival
- How Fantasia on Christmas Carols continues to inspire holiday performances today
This episode also explains the unique combination of baritone soloist, full choir, and orchestra, and how the piece begins and ends with a moving cello solo.
🎧 Listen to the Full Piece Find the complete recording of Fantasia on Christmas Carols here.
🎄 More Christmas Music Fun Don't miss these seasonal resources from Busy Kids Do Piano!
- Online Nutcracker Camp for Kids
- Musical Advent Calendar
🔔 Up Next Get ready for a fun musical mystery game in our next episode: "What Was That Sound? – Holiday Edition!" We'll explore instruments of the season with festive sound-guessing challenges your kids will love.
Thanks for listening, and as always — keep listening and keep learning, because Busy Kids Love Music!
In this fun, interactive episode of Busy Kids Love Music, I invite you to step into the orchestra pit of a Broadway theater to solve some musical mysteries!
This month we've been celebrating the release of Wicked: For Good, and today's episode continues that celebration with a special "What Was That Sound?" – Musical Theater Edition! You'll hear short clips from favorite musicals and try to guess which instruments are playing. Each instrument plays a special role in creating the drama, excitement, and emotion of live theater.
This episode helps young listeners train their ears, learn about instrument families in the orchestra, and understand how each sound helps tell a musical story on stage.
🎵 Featured Musicals & Mystery Sounds 1. Wicked – "Defying Gravity" 2. Hamilton – "My Shot" 3. The Lion King – "Circle of Life" 4. The Sound of Music – "Do-Re-Mi"
🧩 Free Printable: Musical Mysteries Worksheet Can you guess all the instruments correctly? Download the Musical Theater Edition Audio Treasure Hunt Worksheet to write your answers and keep the game going at home!
👉 Download Here
💡 Learning Highlights * Explore four instrument families in the orchestra. * Discover how percussion, brass, and strings add character and emotion to theater music. * Practice active listening and build your child's musical vocabulary through play.
🎧 Keep Listening & Learning If you enjoyed this episode, check out thh full playlist of songs featured today — perfect for singing, dancing, and listening together as a family! 👉 Playlist Link
Don't forget to listen to Episode 162 about Stephen Schwartz, the brilliant composer and lyricist behind Wicked!
💻 Explore More * 🎹 Learn piano with Busy Kids Do Piano: busykidsdopiano.com * 📸 Follow along on social media:
+ Instagram: @busykidsdopiano
+ Facebook: Busy Kids Do Piano
+ YouTube: Busy Kids Do Piano Channel
In this fun, interactive episode of Busy Kids Love Music, I invite you to step into the orchestra pit of a Broadway theater to solve some musical mysteries! This month we’ve been celebrating the release of Wicked: For Good, and today’s episode continues that celebration with a special “What Was That Sound?” – Musical Theater […]
This month on Busy Kids Love Music, we’re celebrating the magic of musical theater — and the brand-new movie Wicked: For Good! In this episode, I introduce young listeners to Stephen Schwartz, the brilliant composer and lyricist behind some of Broadway and Disney’s most beloved songs. From his early studies at Juilliard and Carnegie Mellon […]
In Part 2 of our Imogen Holst series, we step into the crisp, colorful world of autumn through one of her most beautiful works — The Fall of the Leaf. Written in the 1960s and based on a 17th-century English melody of the same name, this short cello concerto paints a gentle, moody, and […]
We’re kicking off a brand-new series on the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, and this time our focus is on the remarkable life and work of composer Imogen Holst.
You might recognize her last name—yes, her father was the famous Gustav Holst, composer of The Planets. But Imogen was far more than “the daughter of…” She built her own musical career as a gifted composer, conductor, teacher, and champion of the arts, making an impact that still resonates today.
In this episode, you’ll discover: 🎵 How growing up in a musical household shaped Imogen’s early years 🎵 Her studies at the Royal College of Music and her path to becoming a composer 🎵 The important roles she played during World War II to bring music to communities and support refugee musicians 🎵 Her close collaboration with composer Benjamin Britten and her work at the Aldeburgh Festival 🎵 Why her music stands out, and how she forged her own creative voice in a male-dominated field
This episode also features an Audio Treasure Hunt—a free printable you can download from the show notes. As you listen, see how many questions you can answer about Imogen Holst’s life and music!
Listen now to learn about a trailblazing 20th-century musician whose legacy includes not only her own compositions, but also her dedication to uplifting the work of others.
Resources & Links:
- Download your free Audio Treasure Hunt printable
- Curated playlist of Imogen Holst’s music
Think you can solve a musical mystery?
In this extra-fun episode of Busy Kids Love Music, you’ll become a musical detective as we play a guessing game with four mystery instrument sounds. I’ll play you a short clip from a famous piece of music—your job is to figure out “What Was That Sound?”
Once you make your guess, I’ll reveal the answer and share some fascinating facts about the instrument, including:
- The fastest-fingered member of the string family
- The tallest instrument in the orchestra
- The woodwind with a delightfully sneaky tone
- The percussion star that keeps an entire piece marching along
To make it even more fun, I’ve created a free printable worksheet that you can use to write down your guesses. This is a perfect at-home, in-the-car, or classroom activity to sharpen your listening skills—and you can even quiz your family and friends afterward.
Plus, I’ve put together a playlist of the full-length versions of all the music featured in today’s game, so you can enjoy each piece from start to finish.
Listen now and put your musical ears to the test!
📄 Free Worksheet: Download here 🎶 Featured Playlist: Listen here
It’s time for a spooky (but silly!) musical adventure as we wrap up our 3-part series on the brilliant French composer Camille Saint-Saëns.
In today’s episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re exploring one of Saint-Saëns’ most imaginative and well-known pieces: Danse Macabre — or “Dance of Death.” But don’t worry — while the title sounds a bit eerie, this piece is more like a playful Halloween dance party than a fright fest. With dancing skeletons, chiming midnight bells, and a dramatic story told entirely through music, Danse Macabre is the perfect mix of spooky and fun.
Inside this episode, your child will:
- Learn the meaning behind the title Danse Macabre
- Discover how Saint-Saëns uses musical instruments like the xylophone, violin, and oboe to paint a vivid scene
- Hear how a spooky-sounding interval called a tritone helps set the mood
- Use their imagination to picture the skeleton dance party in full swing
- Listen for musical clues like midnight chimes and a rooster crowing at dawn
Don’t forget to download your FREE Audio Treasure Hunt! I’ve hidden six questions throughout the episode for your child to uncover as they listen.
👉 Download it here
Mentioned in this episode:
- Danse Macabre by Camille Saint-Saëns
- Instruments to listen for: xylophone (rattling bones!), harp (midnight chimes), violin (creepy tritone), and oboe (the rooster at dawn)
- Previous episodes in our Saint-Saëns series: → Episode 156: Meet the Composer – Camille Saint-Saëns → Episode 157: Carnival of the Animals
Whether you’re listening around Halloween or just in the mood for something dramatic and fun, this episode will show how music can spark imagination and tell a story — even without any words.
Get ready to explore a musical zoo like no other!
In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re diving into one of Camille Saint-Saëns’ most imaginative and beloved works—Carnival of the Animals. This whimsical suite features 14 short movements, each representing a different animal or creature, from regal lions and squawking roosters to gliding swans and even... piano students!
You’ll hear musical excerpts that bring each animal to life and learn:
- Why Saint-Saëns wrote Carnival of the Animals in secret
- What instrument represents the elephant
- Why The Swan was the only movement published during his lifetime
- How this suite became one of his most popular works after his death
PLUS: It’s an Audio Treasure Hunt episode! Hidden throughout today’s episode are six musical clues. Download your free Treasure Hunt printable and see if you can answer them all as you listen.
Want to explore even more? Sign up for my FREE 5-Day Online Music Camp inspired by Carnival of the Animals! Each day features music exploration, fun piano activities, and creative ways to bring the animals to life. Perfect for music-loving kids of all ages! 🔗 Link to join in the show notes.
Next Week: We wrap up our Saint-Saëns series with a spine-tingling piece—Danse Macabre—just in time for spooky season. Don’t miss it!
Resources Mentioned:
- Download the Audio Treasure Hunt Printable
- Join the FREE Carnival of the Animals Online Music Camp
- Listen to Carnival of the Animals in its entirety here
Busy Kids Love Music is created by Carly Seifert, piano teacher and founder of Busy Kids Do Piano, helping families explore the joy of music from their own homes.
📌 Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode — and keep your ears open for more musical adventures!
We’re kicking off a brand-new composer series—and this one’s all about the brilliant French composer Camille Saint-Saëns! 🎼
In this first episode of our 3-part series, your child will discover:
- What made Saint-Saëns a child prodigy
- His early musical education and incredible memory
- How travel and science inspired his compositions
- The tragedies and triumphs that shaped his life
- Why his music stood apart from others in his time
Plus! This episode includes a FREE Audio Treasure Hunt to make listening extra interactive and fun. Can your child catch how old Saint-Saëns was at his first public concert? Or what inspired his “Egyptian” piano concerto?
🎧 Featured Music Includes:
- Organ Symphony
- Piano Concerto No. 5 “The Egyptian”
- Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor
Don’t forget to download your free Audio Treasure Hunt worksheet and explore my curated playlist of Camille Saint-Saëns’ most beloved compositions.
🎹 Enrollment Now Open: If you’ve been thinking about starting piano lessons at home, now’s the perfect time! Public enrollment for Busy Kids Do Piano is open through August 18th. Learn more and sign up here.
Don’t miss Episode 157, where we’ll take a closer listen to The Carnival of the Animals—a delightful musical zoo full of lions, kangaroos, and the famous swan.
Until next time, keep listening and keep making music!
Welcome to the final stop on our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series! In this episode, we journey to the breathtaking island of Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, where folk music and dance are central to cultural life.
From the energetic rhythms of the ʻoteʻa dance to the booming beats of the toʻere and pahu drums, Tahitian music is filled with movement and joy. We’ll explore the traditional instruments, musical styles, and even group choral chants like himene tarava, which blend Polynesian harmonies with European influences.
You’ll also:
- Hear samples of traditional Tahitian drumming and singing
- Learn how music and dance are celebrated at the Heiva Festival
- Discover how Tahitian children carry on musical traditions today
- Explore how modern musicians are blending traditional instruments with new sounds
Don’t forget! Download your Tahiti Passport Stamp to complete your musical journey around the world.
Check out this playlist on YouTube to view incredible Tahitian performances.
🎹 Plus, exciting news! Public enrollment for Busy Kids Do Piano and Busy Moms Do Piano opens August 4th! Learn more about Busy Kids here and Busy Moms here.
Thanks for joining us on this global musical adventure—see you in two weeks for more musical exploration!
In today’s episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we head to the vibrant country of Colombia—a place full of colorful landscapes, rich traditions, and joyful rhythms! Part of our special summer series Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music, this musical journey introduces your child to the diverse folk styles that make Colombian music so special.
From the African-influenced drums of the coastal regions to the haunting melodies of Indigenous flutes and the lively accordion tunes of vallenato, we’ll explore how Colombia’s music reflects its unique blend of cultures: Indigenous, African, and Spanish.
🎶 Highlights from this episode include:
- A deep dive into cumbia, one of Colombia’s most iconic musical styles.
- Listening to the gaita—a traditional Indigenous flute—and how it’s used in folk ensembles.
- Learning about the tambora, a drum essential to Afro-Colombian rhythms and celebrations.
- Discovering the accordion’s role in vallenato and its European roots.
- Exploring how Colombian folk music is still a vibrant part of everyday life—from school songs to street parades!
📌 Episode Resources:
- 🎟 Download your free Colombia Passport Stamp here
- 🎵 Curated YouTube Playlist of Colombian Folk Music featuring cumbia, vallenato, and more
🗺️ Previous Stops on Our Around the World Series:
- Folk Music of Ethiopia
- Folk Music of Ukraine
- Folk Music of South Korea
📍Next stop: Our final destination of the summer series—don’t miss it in two weeks!
This episode will transport your family to Colombia through the power of music. Don’t forget to grab your musical passport stamp and explore even more music with my bonus playlist!
🎧 Subscribe to Busy Kids Love Music on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.
💬 Let’s Connect: Have a question or want to share your child’s musical discoveries? Tag me on Instagram @busymomsdopiano or send us message to carly@busymomsdopiano.com!
Welcome back to Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! In today’s episode, we journey to the eastern side of Asia to explore the rich folk music traditions of South Korea.
From heartfelt folk songs to energetic drumming ensembles, Korean traditional music—known as gugak—is a vibrant part of the country’s culture and history. Join me as we explore:
🎶 Minyo – Traditional Korean folk songs passed down through generations 🎤 Arirang – One of Korea’s most beloved and historic songs 🎭 Pansori – Dramatic musical storytelling with a single singer and drummer 🥁 Samulnori – A thrilling percussion style performed with four instruments 🎼 Traditional Korean instruments including:
- The janggu (hourglass drum)
- The gayageum (12-string zither)
- The haegeum (two-string fiddle)
Along the way, we’ll learn how these beautiful sounds continue to influence modern music—from classrooms to K-pop stages.
👉 Don’t forget to:
- Download your South Korea passport stamp
- Check out the YouTube playlist featuring instruments and performances mentioned in today’s episode
- Revisit any of the previous episodes in this global series
In this episode of our Around the World summer series, we’re traveling to Ukraine, a country with a deep love of singing, a powerful history, and some truly fascinating folk instruments!
Join me as we:
- Discover the meaning of folk music and why it matters.
- Learn about Ukraine’s journey to independence and how music has helped preserve its culture.
- Explore the beautiful three-part harmonies often sung a cappella by Ukrainian choirs.
-
Hear traditional instruments like:
- Bandura – a harp-like instrument with up to 60 strings.
- Trembita – one of the world’s longest instruments used in mountain villages.
- Tsymbaly – a hammered dulcimer that creates rhythmic dance music.
- Understand how folk music varies from region to region in Ukraine.
You’ll hear snippets of folk songs throughout the episode and learn how modern Ukrainian artists are keeping these traditions alive today.
📍 Download your Ukraine Passport Stamp Add to your musical passport collection by downloading this week’s stamp here.
🎧 Bonus Playlist Want to keep listening? Check out the curated playlist of Ukrainian folk music linked on YouTube by clicking here.
Subscribe & Follow: Never miss an episode! Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow me on Instagram @busymomsdopiano for updates, behind-the-scenes, and extra resources.
Busy Kids Love Music is the podcast that helps kids explore composers, musical styles, instruments, and cultures from around the world—one note at a time.
Welcome to a brand new season of our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! Every 2 weeks this summer, we’re visiting a different country to explore its folk music traditions—and today, we’re heading to the Horn of Africa to discover the rich and unique sounds of Ethiopia!
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What makes Ethiopian music sound so different from Western music
- The special musical scales called qignit (including the Tizita scale)
- The fascinating traditional instruments of Ethiopia: the krar, masenqo, and washint
- How music is woven into celebrations, faith, and storytelling
- The unique Ethiopian dance called eskista, full of fast footwork and expressive shoulder movements
Plus, we’ll hear musical clips throughout the episode to bring these traditions to life!
🧳 Don’t forget your passport stamp! Download your printable Ethiopia stamp to add to your musical passport as we travel the world this summer. You’ll find it linked here.
▶️ YouTube Playlist Be sure to check out the curated playlist I’ve included so you can see these amazing instruments and dances in action—especially the mesmerizing eskista dance!
Thanks for joining me on this exciting musical adventure. See you in two weeks as we journey to another corner of the globe for more incredible folk music traditions.
As we approach Memorial Day in the United States, this episode honors one of the most poignant and powerful pieces of American music — Taps. Although this bugle call is only 24 notes long, it carries deep meaning and emotion, used to honor those who have served and sacrificed in the military.
In this episode, you and your young listeners will:
- Discover the origins of Taps during the Civil War.
- Learn about the bugle and how it was used to signal soldiers throughout the day.
- Hear different performances of Taps, including from Arlington National Cemetery.
- Reflect on how a simple melody can express gratitude, peace, and remembrance without a single word.
🎧 Musical excerpts featured:
- Taps – USMC Drum & Bugle Corps
- Reveille – West Point Band
- Taps – Live recordings from Arlington National Cemetery
- Semper Fidelis – “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band
📝 Mentioned in this episode: Visit this link for a short playlist of a few full-length performances of Taps
🎶 What’s Next: Join me in two weeks as we launch our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series! We’ll explore folk music traditions from across the globe — and your child can collect printable passport stamps along the way!
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! In today’s episode, we’re celebrating the blossoming beauty of spring with classical music inspired by flowers! This episode is the perfect follow-up to our April Showers adventure, and it’s all about music that captures the feeling of blooming gardens, delicate petals, and peaceful springtime scenes.
🌸 Here’s what we’re listening to today:
- Waltz of the Flowers by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – A graceful dance from The Nutcracker ballet that brings a garden of twirling flowers to life.
- Voices of Spring (Frühlingsstimmen) by Johann Strauss II – A joyful waltz celebrating the arrival of spring, with sparkling melodies and fluttering flutes. (Psst… you’ll recognize the opening from the podcast theme!)
- Flower Duet from Lakmé by Léo Delibes – A stunning vocal duet that transports us to a peaceful riverside garden, blooming with flowers and calm.
🌷 Imagination Prompts: As you listen, picture yourself surrounded by colorful blossoms, dancing petals, and chirping birds. What does the music feel like? What colors or movements do you imagine?
🎨 Extras for Today’s Episode:
- 🎵 YouTube Playlist featuring full-length performances of each piece
- 🖍️ Printable Flower Coloring Page to enjoy while listening
📣 Reminder: This episode airs during Busy Kids Do Piano’s spring public enrollment period! Learn more about how to join before May 15th by visiting busykidsdopiano.com/membership or busymomsdopiano.com/membership.
Thanks for joining me for this beautiful musical bouquet! I’ll see you next time with a brand-new episode.
Happy Earth Day! Today, we’re celebrating our beautiful planet the best way we know how—through music! 🎶 For centuries, composers have found inspiration in nature, and in this episode, we’re exploring three stunning pieces that bring the sounds of the Earth to life.
🎼 Featured Music: Beethoven’s "Pastoral Symphony" – A joyful musical journey through the countryside, filled with singing birds, flowing streams, and even a thunderstorm! Smetana’s "The Moldau" – A breathtaking piece that follows the journey of a mighty river as it winds through forests, villages, and castles. John Luther Adams' "Become Ocean" – A modern, atmospheric work that captures the vastness and movement of the deep blue sea.
Your Turn! After listening, step outside and create your own "Earth Symphony" using the sounds of nature around you. Can you hum like the wind, tap like raindrops, or play an instrument to mimic the outdoors?
More Music: Want to listen to the full recordings of the pieces from this episode? Find them in our special playlist by clicking here.
🌍 Let’s celebrate Earth Day by listening, creating, and caring for our planet! 💚
📆 Next Episode: I’ll be back in two weeks with more musical fun—see you then!
"April showers bring May flowers!" This common saying reminds us that rainy days lead to beautiful spring blooms. In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re exploring three classical pieces that capture the sound and feeling of rain. From gentle drizzles to powerful storms, these composers found incredible ways to bring rain to life through music.
🎵 Music Featured in This Episode: 1️⃣ "Raindrop" Prelude – Frédéric Chopin
- Listen for the repeating note that sounds like steady raindrops.
- Did you know Chopin may have been inspired by a real rainstorm while staying at an old monastery?
2️⃣ "Gardens in the Rain" – Claude Debussy
- A fast, playful piece that feels like a sudden spring rainstorm.
- Debussy even weaves in snippets of old French nursery rhymes—can you hear them?
3️⃣ "Cloudburst" – Eric Whitacre
- A musical journey through a thunderstorm, featuring voices whispering, fingers snapping, and hands clapping to create the sound of rain!
🌟 Listen & Learn: Want to hear the full performances of these pieces? I've put together a special YouTube playlist so you can enjoy them all week long!
Find the link here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfKdW5enb0-VYOFZa_JGa5Vw6-m8FnwtW&si=7MPTAA8OYH0lxXKY
Join me again in two weeks for another musical adventure! Until then, listen closely to the world around you—you never know what might inspire your next favorite melody.
Hi friends! Have you ever wondered what makes a sonata different from other pieces of music? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of sonatas—one of the most important forms in classical music!
You’ll learn: ✅ What the word "sonata" means and where it comes from ✅ How composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn used a special structure called sonata form ✅ How to listen for the exposition, development, and recapitulation in famous sonatas
🎧 We’ll explore examples from Mozart’s “Easy Sonata,” Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata,” and more! Listen closely and follow along as we break down the form of these timeless masterpieces.
🎵 Download the Free "Sonata Roadmap" Worksheet! I’ve created a fun printable worksheet to help you map out sonata form while you listen. Grab your free download by clicking here.
🎼 Listen Along with Our Sonata Playlist! Want to explore more beautiful sonatas? I’ve put together a special Sonata Playlist so you can hear this form in action. Click here to listen to the playlist.
💡 Challenge: As you listen to a sonata, try to identify when the exposition ends, when the development begins, and when the recapitulation brings everything back together. It’s like following a musical treasure map! 🗺️🎶
Thanks for tuning in to Busy Kids Love Music! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss our next episode. Until next time, keep listening and keep learning!
Happy (almost) St. Patrick’s Day! 🍀 In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re traveling back in time to explore the life and music of one of Ireland’s most beloved composers—Turlough O’Carolan. Known for blending traditional Irish melodies with European Baroque influences, O’Carolan created music that is still performed and loved today.
🎵 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Who was Turlough O’Carolan, and how did he become a traveling harpist? ✅ What are planxties, and why did O’Carolan compose them? ✅ How did he blend Irish folk music with Baroque elements from composers like Bach and Vivaldi? ✅ Listen to some of his most famous works, including:
- Carolan’s Concerto
- Planxty Irwin
- Sí Beag, Sí Mhór
🎧 Listen & Learn More: Curated Playlist – Enjoy a hand-picked selection of O’Carolan’s most famous compositions, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations! Find it here!
Thank you for tuning in to celebrate Irish music with me! Have a wonderful St. Patrick’s Day, and don’t forget to enjoy some traditional Irish tunes. See you in two weeks for another brand-new episode!
Until then—keep listening and learning!
In this special Black History Month episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we explore the life and legacy of the extraordinary musician and composer, Blind Tom Wiggins. Born into slavery in 1849, Blind Tom overcame immense challenges, including blindness and exploitation, to become one of the most celebrated musical prodigies of the 19th century.
Join me as we delve into his remarkable story, his unique musical talent, and his enduring contributions to American music. Learn about his compositions, including his dramatic retelling of a Civil War battle in "The Battle of Manassas," and discover how his life continues to spark conversations about genius, resilience, and the history of Black music.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- The early life and extraordinary talent of Blind Tom Wiggins.
- How his musical abilities were both celebrated and exploited during his lifetime.
- The role of African American spirituals and folk music in shaping his compositions.
- Speculation on whether Blind Tom may have been neurodivergent.
- How his legacy is remembered and honored today.
Links and Resources:
- 🎶 Curated Playlist of Blind Tom Wiggins' Compositions – Listen to his stunning works and experience his genius firsthand.
- Learn more about Blind Tom Wiggins’ life through this resource from the National Museum of African American History and Culture and this documentary from American Masters PBS episode
Thank You for Listening! Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Busy Kids Love Music. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss our next episode in two weeks! You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts.
Hi friends, and welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! This week, we conclude our three-part series on the brilliant composer George Gershwin with a look at his opera masterpiece, Porgy and Bess.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode: * Background on Porgy and Bess: Learn how Gershwin, his brother Ira, and DuBose Heyward collaborated to create this groundbreaking "folk opera" that premiered in 1935. * The Story: Explore the opera’s plot, centered on the struggles and resilience of a close-knit African American community in Catfish Row, Charleston. * Unforgettable Music: Enjoy excerpts from iconic pieces like: + “Summertime” + “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin’” + “Bess, You Is My Woman Now” * Cultural Impact: Discover how Gershwin’s decision to cast African American performers in the leading roles broke barriers while also sparking debate. * Modern Reflections: Understand how productions today balance honoring Gershwin’s work with addressing cultural sensitivities.
Additional Resources: 🎶 YouTube Playlist: Enjoy performances of Porgy and Bess classics, including standalone pieces and opera excerpts. Find it here.
🎧 Missed the First Two Episodes of our Gershwin series? Catch up below:
- Episode 141: Gershwin’s Life and Musical Journey
- Episode 142: Rhapsody in Blue
Thank You for Listening! Join me again in two weeks for another exciting dive into the world of music. Until then, keep exploring, discovering, and enjoying the sounds that inspire you.
Welcome to Busy Kids Love Music! In today’s episode, we continue our series on the remarkable George Gershwin, focusing on one of his most famous works, Rhapsody in Blue. Discover the story behind this iconic piece, learn what makes it unique, and hear why it’s considered a groundbreaking moment in American music history.
What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The Inspiration: Learn how a train ride and a tight deadline led to the creation of Rhapsody in Blue. * The Title: Explore the meaning behind the title and how the piece captures the spirit of America. * The Music: Dive into Gershwin’s innovative blend of jazz and classical styles, featuring instruments like the clarinet, saxophone, and piano. * The Premiere: Hear how the piece’s 1924 debut wowed audiences and redefined jazz as a serious art form. * Why It’s Famous: Discover why Rhapsody in Blue is still celebrated as one of the greatest American compositions.
🎧 Featured Musical Moments:
- The iconic clarinet glissando opening.
- Excerpts showcasing jazz rhythms and sweeping melodies.
Links & Resources: 🎹 Listen to Rhapsody in Blue in its entirety here.
🎹 Listen to Episode 141: The Life of George Gershwin here
🎶 Explore more podcast episodes and composer activities at Busy Kids Love Music.
Coming Up Next: In the final episode of our George Gershwin series, we’ll explore his operatic masterpiece, Porgy and Bess, including the iconic song "Summertime."
Stay Connected: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the next one! Share the love of music by telling a friend about the podcast.
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app!
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! In today’s episode, we kick off a brand-new series all about one of America’s most beloved composers, George Gershwin. From his humble beginnings in Brooklyn to his rise as a composer who seamlessly blended jazz and classical styles, Gershwin’s life and music continue to captivate audiences of all ages.
🎹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Gershwin’s early life and how he discovered his passion for music.
- How his unique style merged jazz and classical traditions.
- His collaborations with his brother, Ira Gershwin, and their unforgettable hits like I Got Rhythm and Embraceable You.
- Iconic works like Rhapsody in Blue, An American in Paris, and the opera Porgy and Bess.
🎵 Musical Highlights in the Episode:
- Gershwin himself performing his first hit, Swanee.
- Excerpts from I Got Rhythm, Concerto in F, and An American in Paris.
- A glimpse into his music with brother Ira, such as "Embraceable You"
✨ Fun Facts About Gershwin:
- Did you know Gershwin was also an avid painter and tennis player?
- Hear the story of how Maurice Ravel turned down Gershwin’s request for lessons with an inspiring compliment.
📚 Resources & Links:
- Playlist of George Gershwin’s Works – Enjoy the music featured in today’s episode and more!
📅 Coming Up Next: Join me in two weeks for a deep dive into one of Gershwin’s most iconic compositions: Rhapsody in Blue. We’ll explore how this piece captured the spirit of 1920s America and why it remains a classic today.
Thank you for tuning in to Busy Kids Love Music! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the rest of our George Gershwin series. For more resources, activities, and listening guides, visit us at busykidsdopiano.com.
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app!
Welcome to this special New Year’s Eve episode of Busy Kids Love Music! Today, we’re diving into the world of New Year’s Day Parade Music. From Pasadena’s iconic Rose Parade to the lively streets of London, you’ll discover how music brings these celebrations to life.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode * Rose Parade Highlights + The role of marching bands in this historic Pasadena tradition. + Traditional parade tunes like “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” and “Strike Up the Band”. * London New Year’s Day Parade + The international mix of British and American bands. + Patriotic anthems like “Rule, Britannia!” and “Land of Hope and Glory”. * Fun Musical Facts + How marching bands stay in step using a “roll step” or “glide step.” + The importance of parade favorites like “Stars and Stripes Forever” and “Pomp and Circumstance”. + Why flip folders are a must-have for musicians on the move.
Featured Performances Throughout the episode, you’ll hear music clips from:
- Pasadena City College Honor Band performing “Everything’s Coming Up Roses”.
- Bands playing “Strike Up the Band”, “Rule, Britannia!”, and “Stars and Stripes Forever”.
- Special shoutout to Georgia’s own Jonesboro Marching Band, performing at the London parade!
Links & Resources * Watch Parade performances in this curated playlist * Learn more about Busy Kids Do Piano membership:
-
- Kids Program: busykidsdopiano.com/membership
- Adults Program: busymomsdopiano.com/membership
Subscribe & Review
We'll be kicking off a new year of musical exploration, so don't forget to subscribe! If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
In this festive episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we'll explore the stories behind three classic Christmas carols: “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “The First Noel,” and “Silent Night.” Each carol has a rich history and has been cherished across generations for its beauty and meaning.
What We Cover in This Episode: Angels We Have Heard on High
- Originated as the French carol “Les Anges dans nos campagnes.”
- Features the famous “Gloria” refrain with its joyful melisma.
- Believed to have roots in 18th-century French shepherd songs.
The First Noel
- Traditional English carol from Cornwall, telling the story of the first Christmas night.
- Likely originated from Miracle Plays in medieval England.
- Its repetitive, meditative melody makes it a favorite in both casual and formal settings.
Silent Night
- Written in Austria in 1818 by Joseph Mohr and Franz Xaver Gruber.
- Composed for guitar accompaniment when the church organ was damaged.
- Known for its peaceful message and was famously sung during the WWI Christmas Truce in 1914.
Episode Extras: Curated Playlist
- Check out a variety of performances of today’s featured carols on YouTube. Visit the playlist here.
Related Episode
- If you enjoyed this episode, don’t miss Episode 35, where we explored the stories behind “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “Joy to the World,” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain.”
Music Credits:
- Angels We Have Heard on High - Christmas piano instrumental with lyrics
- The First Noel (Orchestral Version)
- The First Noel (Acoustic Folk Version)
- Silent Night - Christmas piano instrumental with lyrics
- Silent Night
- Angels, We Have Heard On High (Symphony Orchestra Version)
Thanks for tuning in! Enjoy a holiday season filled with joy, music, and perhaps a little caroling! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
🎧 Listen to all episodes at Busy Kids Love Music.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
In this final episode of our Benjamin Britten series, we dive into one of his most cherished works for the holiday season, A Ceremony of Carols. Join me as we explore the origin story behind this iconic piece, its medieval poetry inspiration, and Britten’s unique use of harp and treble voices to create its enchanting sound.
What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The story of how A Ceremony of Carols was inspired during Britten's voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in 1942. * How Britten’s love for medieval English poetry shaped this beautiful holiday collection. * The musical styles and contrasts within the piece, such as the festive “Wolcum Yole” and the tender “That Yonge Child.” * The historical significance of its first performance in 1942 at Norwich Castle. * Why this piece remains a favorite for youth choirs and holiday performances worldwide.
Music heard in this episode: * Benjamin Britten, A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28 (1943)
Resources Mentioned: * Playlist of Performances: Want to hear more of A Ceremony of Carols? Click here to access a curated playlist of recordings to enjoy with your family this holiday season. * Previous Episodes in this Series: Catch up on our episodes exploring Benjamin Britten's life and The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra.
Explore More Holiday Music: Stay tuned for upcoming episodes this December as we continue to highlight festive and beautiful holiday music.
Thank you for listening, and I hope A Ceremony of Carols brings the spirit of the season into your home! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
🎵 Busy Kids Love Music is a podcast for kids and families to explore classical music and discover the joy it brings. Visit busykidsdopiano.com for more resources and activities.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! In this episode, we continue our three-part series on the British composer Benjamin Britten. Today, we’re diving into one of his most exciting and educational pieces, The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. This composition is beloved by music teachers and conductors alike for its engaging way of introducing listeners to the various sections of an orchestra.
Benjamin Britten created The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra in 1946 to help kids learn about orchestral instruments. He based the main theme on a melody by composer Henry Purcell, and then used variations and a lively fugue to let each section of the orchestra shine. Join us as we explore the sounds of woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion, learning how each contributes to the orchestra’s full and layered sound.
In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:
- Britten’s commitment to composing for young performers
- How he used Henry Purcell’s theme to introduce listeners to the orchestra
- What a “variation” is and how it changes a theme in small but creative ways
- The unique sounds of each orchestra section: woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion
- How Britten uses a “fugue” to bring all the instruments together at the end
Music Excerpts Featured:
Benjamin Britten - The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra
Listen & Learn: If you’d like to hear The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra in its entirety, I've linked a full performance here.
Next Episode: In our next episode, airing in December, we’ll explore Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols, a beautiful Christmastime piece featuring a children’s choir and a harp. Don’t miss it!
Thank You for Listening! Thank you for joining us today! Tune in again in two weeks as we continue discovering the magical world of classical music with our series on Benjamin Britten.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to another episode of Busy Kids Love Music, your go-to podcast for introducing young listeners to the world of classical music! In today’s episode, we’re kicking off a new three-part series about one of the most celebrated British composers of the 20th century—Benjamin Britten.
What We’ll Explore in this Episode: - Britten’s Early Life & Musical Beginnings: Born on November 22, 1913, in Suffolk, England—St. Cecilia’s Day, no less!—Britten was raised in a musically nurturing home. His mother, Edith, encouraged his early musical talents, and he took his first piano lessons as a child. - A Budding Prodigy: Britten’s talent was evident from a young age, and his meeting with composer Frank Bridge at age 14 helped shape his approach to composition. He went on to study at the Royal College of Music, where he balanced formal training with his own creative instincts. - Unique Style & Influence: Known for blending traditional English folk tunes with modern sounds, Britten created music that resonated with listeners of all backgrounds. His ability to craft music that was both complex and accessible made him stand out in the classical world. - Commitment to Peace: Britten was a pacifist, a belief that profoundly influenced his life and compositions. Instead of fighting in World War II, he used his music to convey messages about the horrors of war and the need for peace. One of his most powerful pieces, War Requiem, is dedicated to honoring lives lost in conflict. - Famous Works: Britten’s Peter Grimes, which premiered in 1945, became a cornerstone of modern opera. His repertoire also includes orchestral, choral, and chamber music that speaks to audiences around the world.
In two weeks, we’ll dive deeper into Britten’s beloved works, continuing our three-part journey through his life and legacy. Be sure to subscribe, so you won’t miss a thing!
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform, and join us next time on Busy Kids Love Music!
Musical Highlights Throughout the episode, you'll hear snippets of these selections:
Hymn to St. Cecelia
Night Piece for Piano
Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes
War Requiem
The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra
Curated Playlist I've put together a special YouTube playlist featuring music from today's episode. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to Episode 134 of Busy Kids Love Music! As we approach Halloween, we're diving into one of the most famous and captivating musical stories of all time: The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber. In this episode, you'll learn all about this beloved musical and the story behind it.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
- The backstory of The Phantom of the Opera,first written as a novel by Gaston Leroux in 1910.
- How Andrew Lloyd Webber was inspired to turn this haunting tale into a musical masterpiece.
- Key highlights from the musical, including the dramatic love story between the Phantom and Christine.
- The iconic moments from the show, such as the famous falling chandelier scene.
- A closer look at some of the most famous songs from the musical, including "The Music of the Night" and "All I Ask of You."
Musical Highlights Throughout the episode, you'll hear snippets of music from The Phantom of the Opera performed:
The Phantom of the Opera - Epic Piano Solo | Leiki Ueda
"Masquerade" from Phantom Of The Opera - solo piano
'The Music of The Night' Ramin Karimloo | The Phantom of The Opera
All I Ask Of You | The Phantom Of The Opera
Overture
Bonus Resources Love Broadway musicals? Don't miss these bonus resources: 1. Busy Kids Love Music Episode 94 all about Broadway musicals. 2. A fun DIY Broadway Poster Printable for your kids to design and color.
Curated Playlist I've put together a special YouTube playlist featuring iconic scenes from both The Phantom of the Opera musical production and the 2004 film adaptation. You’ll also find clips of the thrilling chandelier crash scene! Check it out here.
Thank you for tuning in! Don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the episode, and have a fantastic Halloween! Keep making music, and I'll see you in the next episode.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! In Episode 133, we’re taking a musical journey to one of the world’s most famous festivals – Oktoberfest! This traditional German celebration, which began over 200 years ago in Munich, Germany, has spread across the world, bringing with it lively music, dancing, and festive fun.
What You'll Learn in This Episode: In this episode, we explore the vibrant music that fills the air at Oktoberfest, including:
- Oom-pah Music: Learn about the traditional "oom-pah" bands, featuring the tuba, accordion, clarinet, and more, creating a festive rhythm perfect for dancing. - Dances of Oktoberfest: Discover the fast-paced, hopping polka and the elegant waltz, both staples of Oktoberfest dancing. - Sing-Alongs: Join in the fun of traditional German songs, like the famous “Ein Prosit,” a song sung throughout Oktoberfest to toast to good health and happiness.
The music at Oktoberfest brings people together, creating a joyful atmosphere that’s all about celebration. Whether it’s the lively sounds of the oom-pah band or the crowd joining in for a sing-along, the tunes help make Oktoberfest the energetic festival it’s known for.
MUSICAL SAMPLES HEARD IN THIS EPISODE
OKTOBERFEST Music 🍻 Super 1 Hour Playlist
Bavarian "oompah" Band
"Beer Barrel Polka" (Roll Out the Barrel) [also Rosamunda and Škoda lásky] by West Coast Prost!
"Blue Skirt Waltz" by West Coast Prost! Happy Oktoberfest!
Ein Prosit - [LYRICS] - The Polka Brothers
PLAYLIST FOR EPISODE 133 I’ve created a special playlist of fun Oktoberfest music, perfect for dancing or just enjoying the festive atmosphere! You can find it here
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If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to the final episode of our three-part series on the extraordinary composer Gustav Holst! If you missed our earlier episodes where we explored Holst’s life and his famous orchestral suite The Planets, be sure to check out those episodes using the links below.
In today’s episode, we dive into a different side of Holst’s musical genius—his First Suite in E-flat for Military Band. Composed in 1909, this suite quickly became a cornerstone of the wind band repertoire and showcases Holst’s love for British military music traditions.
We’ll explore how Holst, a talented trombonist himself, was inspired to create a piece that highlights the power and versatility of military band instrumentation. From its majestic opening to the lively, dance-like movements, each section of the band—brass, woodwinds, and percussion—gets a moment to shine. This suite is a perfect example of how Holst brought innovation to the world of wind band music, making it one of the most frequently performed pieces in the concert band repertoire today.
The First Suite in E-flat has been celebrated worldwide for its inventive orchestration and emotional depth, making it a favorite among both performers and audiences. It’s also a popular choice for music educators introducing young musicians to the rich history and expressive possibilities of wind band music.
I hope you enjoy these musical adventures, and I look forward to bringing you more in our next brand-new episode in two weeks!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 130: The Life of Gustav Holst
Episode 131: The Planets
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Holst: First Suite for Military Band in E-Flat major Op.28-1
Playlist for Episode 132 I've curated a playlist on YouTube of a few performances of Holst's First Suite in E-Flat. Check it out here.
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If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! In this second episode of our three-part series on the incredible composer Gustav Holst, we're diving into one of his most famous and beloved works: The Planets. Whether you're a budding astronomer, a lover of mythology, or a homeschooling student learning about the solar system, this episode offers a fun and fascinating musical journey through the stars.
In The Planets, Holst composed a suite of seven movements, each named after a different planet in our solar system and its corresponding astrological character. Holst’s fascination with astrology -- a belief some held that the positions and movements of stars and planets might influence lives on Earth—played a significant role in the creation of this work.
We'll explore how Holst used music to bring these celestial bodies to life, portraying the intense and dramatic nature of Mars, the serene beauty of Venus, the playful speed of Mercury, the jubilant energy of Jupiter, the solemn wisdom of Saturn, the mysterious magic of Uranus, and the ethereal mysticism of Neptune.
This episode is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and homeschoolers alike, as it connects the worlds of music, mythology, and the cosmos. Plus, it's a fantastic way to experience how music can convey the character and personality of each planet.
If you missed the first episode in this series, where we discussed Holst's life and musical style, be sure to check it out here. And don't forget to explore our curated playlist of The Planets, linked in the show notes, to hear more of Holst's incredible work.
In our next episode, we'll take an in-depth look at another of Holst's other notable works and his lasting legacy in the world of music. Until then, keep listening and keep loving music!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 130: The Life of Gustav Holst
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Holst: The Planets, 'Mars' - BBC Proms
The Planets - II. Venus, The Bringer of Peace - Gustav Holst
The Planets - III. Mercury, the Winged Messenger - Gustav Holst
The Planets - IV. Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity - Gustav Holst
Gustav Holst - Saturn
The Planets - VI. Uranus, the Magician - Gustav Holst
The Planets - VII. Neptune, the Mystic - Gustav Holst
Playlist for Episode 131 I've curated a playlist on YouTube of the pieces you heard in today's episode (in addition to a few additional performances of the Jupiter theme). Listen here.
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If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to Busy Kids Love Music, the podcast for busy families and kids who love music and want to learn more about their favorite composers, instruments, and styles of music. I'm your host, Carly Seifert, the creator of Busy Kids Do Piano, and today we are kicking off a special 3-part series on the life and music of the great composer, Gustav Holst.
In this first episode, we’ll explore Holst's family life, his early interest in music, his musical training, and some of the unique characteristics that make his compositions stand out.
Episode Highlights:
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Early Life and Family Background: Gustav Holst was born on September 21, 1874, in Cheltenham, England, into a musical family. His father, Adolph von Holst, was a professional musician, and his mother, Clara, was a singer and pianist. Sadly, Clara passed away when Gustav was just eight years old.
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Musical Training: Holst received his first piano lessons from his father and also learned to play the violin and trombone. Despite health issues such as severe asthma, neuritis, and eyesight problems, Holst's passion for music never waned. He began composing at the age of twelve.
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Royal College of Music: Holst faced initial rejection but eventually gained admission to the Royal College of Music in London in 1893. There, he studied composition with Sir Charles Villiers Stanford and formed a lifelong friendship with fellow composer Ralph Vaughan Williams.
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Family Life: In 1901, Holst married Isobel Harrison, a soprano and former student. They had a daughter, Imogen Holst, who became a respected composer, conductor, and musicologist. The Holst family was close-knit, providing Gustav with inspiration and support.
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Musical Influences and Style: Holst incorporated various influences into his compositions, including English folk music and Indian music. His innovative harmonies and complex rhythms gave his music a distinctive sound. He was also interested in astrology, which inspired his famous suite, "The Planets."
I hope you enjoy learning about the life of Gustav Holst. In our next episode, we’ll dive deeper into some of his most famous works, including "The Planets." Be sure to tune in and discover the magic of Holst’s music.
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Holst St. Paul's Suite
Gustav Holst - Two Pieces for Piano, H. 179 (1930-32)
Holst - Savitri
Gustav Holst - Mars
Playlist for Episode 130 I've curated a playlist on YouTube of the pieces you heard in today's episode as well as additional famous works by Gustav Holst. Check it out here.
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Welcome to the final episode of our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music series! Travel with me today as we explore the vibrant and historical folk music of Greece. This summer, we’ve traveled through Zambia, Fiji, Finland, and Argentina, learning about their rich musical traditions. If you missed any episodes, don’t worry – I’ve linked them all below. Grab your musical passport, and let's dive into the sounds of Greece!
In This Episode:
- Greek Dimotiko Music: Discover the traditional rural music known as Dimotiko, which features songs about love, nature, history, and heroic tales.
- Traditional Greek Instruments:
- Bouzouki: Learn about this iconic stringed instrument, its history, and its distinctive, bright sound.
- Lyra (Lyre): Explore the soulful and expressive three-stringed bowed instrument, central to the folk music of Crete and other Greek islands.
- Santouri: This fascinating instrument, similar to a piano without keys, i played with small wooden mallets to create beautiful, ringing sounds
- Rebetiko Music: The "Greek blues" emerged in the early 20th century, with their expressive and often melancholic melodies.
- Greek Dance: Discover the famous Greek dance, Sirtaki, known for its lively pace and fun rhythms.
Thank you for joining me on this incredible musical adventure around the world during these summer months. I hope you’ve enjoyed exploring different cultures and their unique sounds. Music truly is a universal language that brings us all together. Don’t forget to tune in for our next brand-new episode in 2 weeks!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR GREECE
VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)
VISIT FINLAND (EPISODE 126)
VISIT FIJI (EPISODE 127)
VISIT ARGENTINA (EPISODE 128)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Incredible Greece Folk Music
Themis Bouzouki - Manolis Karantinis | Solo Bouzouki - Dinata
Ancient music - Oldest complete song "Epitaph of Seikolos" - Greek Lyre, Har-Mose lute
Traditional music students from university of Ioannina (Greece)🇬🇷 are playing santouri
Greek Rebetiko Music
Zorba The Greek Dance - The Greek Orchestra Emmetron Music
Playlist for Episode 129 Check out this curated playlist on my YouTube channel to view the instruments and dances we learned about in today's episode.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to Episode 128 of Busy Kids Love Music! I’m thrilled to bring you the 4th stop of our Around the World series, where we journey to different countries to explore their unique folk music traditions. Today, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant sounds of Argentina!
In This Episode:
- Chacarera: Discover this lively folk style from rural Argentina, characterized by guitars, bombo drums, and energetic dance movements.
- Zamba: Experience the melancholic beauty of zamba, a slower genre with roots in indigenous and African music, featuring graceful dances with handkerchiefs.
- Tango: Learn about the iconic tango, its rich history, and its evolution from the neighborhoods of Buenos Aires to a global phenomenon.
- Instruments: Explore the distinctive sounds of Argentine folk music with instruments like the bombo drums and the bandoneón, adding depth and emotion to the compositions.
Join me again in two weeks for our final destination of the Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series. Keep listening, exploring, and loving music!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR ARGENTINA
VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)
VISIT FINLAND (EPISODE 126)
VISIT FIJI (EPISODE 127)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Argentina Folk Music
Facundo Toro - Enganchado de Chacareras pal' asado con amigos
ZAMBA Romantica ARGENTINA Georgina & Oscar MANDAGARAN
Buenos Tango | ARGENTINE MUSIC [The Best of Tango]
Che, Bandoneón! - Anibal Troilo - (arr. Leopoldo Federico)
Music from Argentina for Guitar and Bandoneon
Playlist for Episode 128 The beautiful instruments and dances of Argentina can be viewed in this curated playlist on my YouTube channel.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to Episode 128 of Busy Kids Love Music! I’m thrilled to bring you the 4th stop of our Around the World series, where we journey to different countries to explore their unique folk music traditions. Today, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant sounds of Argentina! In This Episode: Chacarera: Discover this lively folk style […]
Welcome to Episode 127 of Busy Kids Love Music! I’m thrilled to have you join me as we continue our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music. So far, we've explored the musical traditions of Zambia and Finland. If you missed those episodes, you can catch up by visiting the links below, where you can also print your passport stamps.
In This Episode:
- Fiji's Musical Heritage: Explore the beautiful island nation of Fiji, known for its vibrant and deeply rooted folk music.
- Traditional Instruments:
- Lali Drum: Discover the resonant sounds of this long, wooden drum carved from a single piece of wood, used for communication in Fijian villages.
- Bamboo Nose Flute: Learn about this unique instrument played by blowing through the nose, providing soothing music in ancient Fiji.
- Cultural Traditions:
- Meke Dance: Experience the traditional Fijian dance accompanied by singing and drumming, often performed during celebrations and gatherings.
- Kava Ceremony: Understand the significance of this social ritual, where people share stories and music over a bowl of traditional kava.
Thank you for joining me on this musical journey to Fiji! Stay tuned for our next destination in two weeks as we continue our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music. Until then, eep listening, exploring, and loving music!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR FIJI
VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)
VISIT FINLAND (EPISODE 126)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Bula Maleya: Fiji Welcome Song
Lali Drum Beat at Sofitel Fiji
Fijian Meke Performance at Samoan & Fijian Wedding in Samoa
KALALENG(nose flute)
Tagi a Manumanu, Nautusolo
Playlist for Episode 127 Enjoy the interesting instruments and dances from Fiji in this curated playlist.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to Episode 127 of Busy Kids Love Music! I’m thrilled to have you join me as we continue our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music. So far, we’ve explored the musical traditions of Zambia and Finland. If you missed those episodes, you can catch up by visiting the links […]
Welcome to another episode of Busy Kids Love Music! In this episode, we continue our fourth annual summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music, with a journey to Finland. Discover the enchanting musical traditions of this beautiful Scandinavian country, from the mystical sounds of the kantele to the lively tunes of Pelimanni music.
In This Episode, You Will Learn: - The role of the kantele in Finnish folk music and its origins in Finnish mythology. - The significance of the Kalevala, Finland’s epic poem, and its influence on Finnish music. - The characteristics of Pelimanni music and its place in Finnish celebrations. - How Finnish folk music is inspired by nature and community.
Continue our musical journey around the world in the next episode of Busy Kids Love Music. Until then, keep listening, exploring, and creating beautiful music!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR FINLAND
VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Finnish folk song "Swans", arranged by V. Dulev, performed by Anastasia Krasilnikova
Finnish Nature & Kalevala Rune song NOSTATUS - Korjuu (runolaulu & kantele)
"Säkkijärven Polkka" - Finnish Folk Song
Finnish Kantele & Finland's nature | Suomen luonto ja Nostatus "Sanan Synty"
Playlist for Episode 126 Enjoy viewing some of Finland's beauty as you listen to its folk music in this curated playlist.
Subscribe & Review
If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!
Welcome to another episode of Busy Kids Love Music! In this episode, we continue our fourth annual summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music, with a journey to Finland. Discover the enchanting musical traditions of this beautiful Scandinavian country, from the mystical sounds of the kantele to the lively tunes of Pelimanni […]
Hello Busy Kids Love Music families! I am so excited to welcome you to the fourth annual summer series of our podcast: Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! This summer, we’re packing our musical bags and embarking on a journey to explore folk music from different countries, collecting passport stamps along the way.
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT HERE
DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR ZAMBIA HERE
What is Folk Music?
Before we dive into our first destination, let's take a moment to understand what folk music is. Folk music tells stories about people, places, and traditions. It's music that has been passed down from generation to generation, helping us learn about different cultures, histories, and the unique qualities of each place.
First Stop: Zambia
For our first stop, we're heading to the vibrant and beautiful country of Zambia, located in southern Africa. My family and I had the incredible opportunity to visit Zambia recently, and we were absolutely enchanted by everything -- including the diverse musical experiences we encountered. In this episode, I'll share with you a little of what I learned!
Modern Influence and Cultural Fusion
Zambian folk music significantly influences modern Zambian music. Imagine mixing a special recipe with all kinds of flavors! People in Zambia love using traditional beats, catchy tunes, and cool instruments to create contemporary songs. Churches across Zambia incorporate indigenous musical elements, creating dynamic and spiritually uplifting worship services. This fusion of musical styles reflects Zambia's diverse cultural heritage and fosters a sense of community and belonging.
Listen to the Episode
In this podcast episode, you'll hear many of my own recordings from our trip to Zambia, including performances by the Ngoni people, music played on the silimba, and beautiful melodies from the thumb piano. I’ve also put together a curated playlist on YouTube (linked below) of other examples of Zambian folk music.
Make sure you have your passport and your stamp for Zambia, and let’s get ready to embark on this musical adventure together!
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Here is a reel from my Instagram of some of the music you heard from my personal recordings in Zambia.
Kalindula Music - Zambian Traditional Music 2023
Tinashé: Mbira version of "Zambezi"
Playlist for Episode 125 In addition to this highlight reel of music from my visit, I put together a curated playlist of Zambian folk music on YouTube. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music, where we delve into the fascinating world of music and its incredible instruments. Today's episode is dedicated to exploring the unique and versatile banjo, the perfect instrument to learn about during this African-American Music Appreciation Month as it is significant in Black musical traditions of the past and present.
Exploring African Ancestors:
Listeners will be treated to a glimpse of the banjo's ancestor, the akonting, as we learn about similar instruments in West Africa and their journey to the Americas through the enslaved African population.
The Influence of Blackface Minstrelsy:
In the 1830s, blackface minstrelsy propelled the banjo into fame in the United States, albeit through problematic portrayals of Black culture. We'll discuss the role of Joel Walker Sweeney and other white performers in popularizing the banjo in minstrel shows. By the mid-19th century, the banjo had become a ubiquitous part of American musical culture. We'll explore how makers and music book writers tailored the banjo's image and playing style to appeal to white audiences.
Banjo's Enduring Legacy:
The banjo's bright tones and distinctive fingerpicking style made it the most popular stringed instrument in America by the late 1800s. Let's learn about and celebrate the banjo's continued influence across different musical genres, from bluegrass to jazz and rock. Modern banjo virtuosos like Béla Fleck and Rhiannon Giddens ensure the ongoing relevance in today's music landscape. I encourage you to explore the curated playlist of banjo music linked below!
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Daniel Jatta Plays an Akonting Tune Written by his Father
Willow Osborne - Foggy Mountain Breakdown
Alabama Joe Tom Briggs banjo
Appalachian Bluegrass Banjo & Fiddle Music
Béla Fleck - Wheels Up
Playlist for Episode 124 You'll love the variety of banjo music in this episode's curated playlist. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music, where we delve into the fascinating world of music and its incredible instruments. Today’s episode is dedicated to exploring the unique and versatile banjo, the perfect instrument to learn about during this African-American Music Appreciation Month as it is significant in Black musical traditions of the past […]
Welcome to the latest episode of Busy Kids Love Music, where we embark on a musical journey into the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev's ballet masterpiece, "Cinderella." Today we'll dive into the enchanting melodies and unforgettable moments that make this composition a timeless treasure.
Discovering Prokofiev's Ballet Legacy: Sergei Prokofiev, renowned for his innovative compositions and mastery of musical storytelling, left an indelible mark on the world of ballet. Throughout his illustrious career, Prokofiev completed eight ballets, each a testament to his unparalleled creativity and ability to transport audiences to new worlds.
Unveiling the Magic of Cinderella: "Cinderella" is a ballet in three acts, composed by Prokofiev between 1940 and 1944. Inspired by the classic fairy tale, the ballet follows the story of Cinderella, a kind-hearted young woman longing for escape from her life of hardship. With evocative music and enchanting choreography, Prokofiev brings this beloved tale to life in a way that captivates audiences of all ages.
Exploring Key Musical Pieces: In our podcast episode, we spotlight some of the most iconic pieces from "Cinderella," including the grand finale "Waltz-Coda," the suspenseful "Midnight" music, and the romantic melody known as "Amoroso." Through these excerpts, listeners are transported into the heart of Prokofiev's enchanting world, where magic and emotion intertwine.
Historical Significance: Despite the challenging circumstances of World War II, "Cinderella" made its debut on November 21, 1945, at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. The premiere was a resounding success, enchanting audiences with its rich music, dazzling costumes, and breathtaking choreography, solidifying its place as a beloved classic of the ballet repertoire.
Join me on this enchanting journey through the magical world of Sergei Prokofiev's "Cinderella." Let the captivating melodies and timeless tale of love, hope, and transformation transport you to a world of beauty and wonder. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more musical explorations and episodes!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 121: The Life of Sergei Prokofiev
Episode 122: Peter and the Wolf
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Prokofiev - Cinderella Suite (Introduction)
Cinderella - Ballet in Three Acts, Op. 87, Act II: No. 37 Waltz - Coda
Prokofiev - Cinderella Suite - Midnight
Prokofiev - Cinderella "Amoroso"
Playlist for Episode 123 Check out this episode's curated playlist on YouTube, where I've shared live performances to some of Prokofiev's music from Cinderella.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome to the latest episode of Busy Kids Love Music, where we embark on a musical journey into the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev’s ballet masterpiece, “Cinderella.” Today we’ll dive into the enchanting melodies and unforgettable moments that make this composition a timeless treasure. Discovering Prokofiev’s Ballet Legacy: Sergei Prokofiev, renowned for his innovative […]
Welcome back, music enthusiasts and families! Today, we dive into the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev's timeless masterpiece, "Peter and the Wolf." In our latest episode of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, we delve deep into the whimsical tale of young Peter and his encounters with various animals in the Russian forest. Join me as we uncover the magic behind this beloved composition and discover its profound impact on generations of listeners.
The Story Unfolds: "Peter and the Wolf" is not just a musical composition; it's a vivid fairy tale brought to life through Prokofiev's masterful orchestration. Follow along as Peter ventures into the forest, defying his grandfather's warnings, and crosses paths with a bird, a duck, a cat, and ultimately, a fearsome wolf. Each character in the story is intricately woven into the fabric of the music, creating a symphonic narrative that sparks the imagination and stirs the soul.
Educational Purpose and Premier Success: Commissioned by the Central Children's Theatre in Moscow, "Peter and the Wolf" serves as an ingenious educational tool to introduce children to the instruments of the orchestra. Through the use of leitmotifs, Prokofiev assigns specific musical themes to each character, allowing young listeners to identify and connect with the sounds of the symphony. The premiere of "Peter and the Wolf" in 1936, conducted by Prokofiev himself with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, was met with resounding success, captivating audiences of all ages with its enchanting storytelling.
Musical Examples and Narrative Depth: In our podcast episode, we explore excerpts from "Peter and the Wolf," highlighting the musical representation of characters such as the bird (flute) and the cat (clarinet). Additionally, we delve into the innovative narration that adds depth and engagement to the musical experience, guiding listeners through Peter's thrilling adventures in the forest.
Adaptations and Legacy: Since its premiere, "Peter and the Wolf" has inspired numerous adaptations, including ballet productions and animated short films. From the iconic 1946 Walt Disney adaptation to modern interpretations, the story of Peter's bravery and the power of music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. I invite you to explore these adaptations and discover the enduring legacy of Prokofiev's masterpiece.
Don't miss out on future episodes of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, where we continue to explore the wonders of classical music and inspire the next generation of music lovers. Subscribe today on your preferred podcast platform and don't miss each episode's show notes for links to referenced content and resources.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 121: The Life of Sergei Prokofiev
Peter and the Wolf Online Music Camp
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Peter and the Wolf: Main Theme
Peter and the Wolf - wolf theme
Peter and the Wolf, Op. 67: The Bird
Prokofiev Peter and the Wolf Cat Themes
Peter and the Wolf, Op. 67: Nos. 1-14
Playlist for Episode 122 Below are links to some of the full performances/short films of "Peter and the Wolf". (Parents, please make sure to preview the films below before allowing your student to watch!)
David Bowie Narrates Disney's Peter And The Wolf (Full)
Peter & the Wolf (2006 film | 4K Remade)
"Петя и волк", The Royal Ballet School
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome back, music enthusiasts and families! Today, we dive into the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev’s timeless masterpiece, “Peter and the Wolf.” In our latest episode of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, we delve deep into the whimsical tale of young Peter and his encounters with various animals in the Russian forest. Join […]
Welcome to episode 121 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast! In this episode, we'll kick off a special 3-part composer series all about the incredible Sergei Prokofiev. Get ready to dive into the life and musical contributions of this legendary composer!
Episode Highlights:
- Discover the life of Sergei Prokofiev, a Russian composer, pianist, and conductor born in 1891.
- Learn about Prokofiev's early musical talent, including composing his first piece at age five and an opera by age nine.
- Explore Prokofiev's bold and innovative musical style, characterized by daring compositions and a penchant for pushing musical boundaries.
- Hear excerpts from some of Prokofiev's most famous works, including his Piano Concerto No. 2 and the Scythian Suite, to experience the excitement and drama in his music.
- Learn about Prokofiev's life after the Russian Revolution, his marriage to Spanish singer Carolina Codina, and his passion for chess.
- Find out how you can explore more of Prokofiev's music with my curated playlist in the show notes.
Stay tuned for the next two episodes of Busy Kids Love Music, where we will dive deeper into some of Prokofiev's most famous songs. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your favorite listening platform so you don't miss out on future episodes. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the Busy Kids Love Music podcast to help more people discover our musical community.
Thanks for joining me on this musical journey through the life and music of Sergei Prokofiev! Keep listening to and loving music, and we'll see you again in two weeks for the next episode. Bye for now!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Waitlist to join Busy Kids Do Piano
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Martha Argerich Plays Prokofiev Piano Concerto No.3 | Singapore International Piano Festival
Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor Op.16 - Yuja Wang
Prokofiev Scythian Suite, Op. 20
Prokofiev - Love Of Three Oranges– Marriner/London Symphony Orchestra
Playlist for Episode 121 I've put together a curated playlist of the pieces you heard in today's episode along with a few additional famous Prokofiev arrangements. Check it out here!
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome to episode 121 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast! In this episode, we’ll kick off a special 3-part composer series all about the incredible Sergei Prokofiev. Get ready to dive into the life and musical contributions of this legendary composer! Episode Highlights: Discover the life of Sergei Prokofiev, a Russian composer, pianist, […]
Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! I’m thrilled to continue our Solar Eclipse series with Episode 120, where we’ll explore the enchanting world of songs inspired by the moon. 🌙 Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven: We kick off our lunar journey with Beethoven’s iconic “Moonlight Sonata”. Discover the hauntingly beautiful melodies and the emotional […]
Welcome to Episode 119 of Busy Kids Love Music! As we eagerly anticipate the celestial spectacle of the 2024 Solar Eclipse, we embark on a two-part journey through the realms of classical music inspired by the sun and the moon. In this inaugural episode of our series, we set our sights on the sun. […]
In Episode 118 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, we delve into the life and works of Fanny Crosby, an influential figure and prolific hymn writer. This special episode not only pays homage to her remarkable talent but also highlights the importance of recognizing the often-overlooked contributions of women in music history. Fanny […]
In Episode 117, we’re immersing ourselves in the rich and intricate world of Baroque music, shining a spotlight on the genius of Georg Philipp Telemann. Get ready to embark on a musical adventure as we unravel the life and melodies of this Baroque maestro. Georg Philipp Telemann, a name that echoes through the corridors […]
In the spirit of honoring Black History Month, Episode 116 is dedicated to the remarkable Nina Simone – a soulful force, a musical genius, and an iconic figure in the world of music. Prepare to be captivated as we delve into the extraordinary life and enchanting music of the incomparable Nina Simone. Nina Simone, […]
Today marks the grand finale of our captivating three-part series on the influential American composer, Aaron Copland. We’ve delved into the world of Copland’s ballets, embarked on a musical journey through the Wild West, and now, we’re set to explore a piece that stands as both powerful and patriotic—the iconic “Fanfare for the […]
I’m thrilled to present the second part of our three-part series dedicated to the maestro himself, Aaron Copland. In Episode 114, we’re turning our attention to the dance floor, exploring the breathtaking world of ballet through the genius compositions of Copland. 🕺💃 The Balletic Odyssey of Aaron Copland 💃🕺 In this enchanting episode, I […]
Welcome, dear listeners, to our first podcast episode of the new year — Episode 113 of the Busy Kids Love Music Podcast! In this captivating installment, we embark on the first part of a fascinating series delving into the life and musical legacy of one of America’s most iconic composers: Aaron Copland. **🎶 A […]
We’re about to embark on a global musical journey that transcends borders and celebrates the diversity of holiday traditions. In this special episode, we’ll be delving into the rich tapestry of sounds and rhythms that accompany festive celebrations around the world. Join us as we explore the enchanting traditions of Las Posadas, Diwali, Oshogatsu, […]
Today we're learning about an instrument from the brass family -- the French horn. As we do whenever we have an episode about a particular kind of instrument, we'll learn about the "anatomy" of the instrument and how it's played, the kinds of music the instrument plays and, of course, we'll listen to lots of exciting French horn music while we do all of this learning!
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Winner of Tchaikovsky competition 2019 Yun Zeng French horn
Annamia Eriksson plays Horn Call
Rondo from Mozart's Horn Concerto Nr 4 - Berlin Philharmonic Brass
Cadets 2015 - French Horn Feature
Brain, Karajan, Mozart Horn Concerto No.4 n E flat major K 495
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 105 The curated playlist for today's episode includes music from the episode as well as fun arrangements for the French horn from a film you might recognize -- Star Wars! Listen to the playlist here.
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Today we’re learning about an instrument from the brass family — the French horn. As we do whenever we have an episode about a particular kind of instrument, we’ll learn about the “anatomy” of the instrument and how it’s played, the kinds of music the instrument plays and, of course, we’ll listen to lots […]
Let's finish up our 2-part series on Baroque composer Johann Pachelbel by learning about his most famous piece -- and perhaps one of the most well-known classical pieces of all time -- Canon in D Major.
In this episode, we'll talk about what as musical canon is and how this piece soared to popularity in the 1970's. Be sure to check out the listening schedule I've linked below to hear different interpretations of arrangements of this famous melody from so long ago.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Membership info for Busy Kids Do Piano
Membership info for Busy Moms Do Piano
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Pachelbel - Canon - Stringspace String Quartet
Row, Row, Row Your Boat (Round)
Wedding String Quartet - Canon in D (Best Version) (Johann Pachelbel)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 104 Check out this episode's playlist to hear a few different interpretations of Pachelbel's famous piece.
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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Let’s finish up our 2-part series on Baroque composer Johann Pachelbel by learning about his most famous piece — and perhaps one of the most well-known classical pieces of all time — Canon in D Major. In this episode, we’ll talk about what as musical canon is and how this piece soared to popularity in […]
We're kicking off a new school year here in the U.S., and I thought I'd kick off the back-to-school season with a brand new composer series on famous Baroque composer Johann Pachelbel. Today we'll learn about his life, style and legacy. In two weeks, be sure to tune in again when we dig in deep about one of his most famous pieces, Canon in D Major.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Membership info for Busy Kids Do Piano
Membership info for Busy Moms Do Piano
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
(2) J. Pachelbel - Hexachordum Apollinis (1699)
(2) Johann Pachelbel (1653-1706): Toccata in G Minor (P 468)
J. PACHELBEL - Toccata in e minor (Anne-Isabelle de Parcevaux, organ)
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Violin & Piano
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 103 This episode's playlist highlights some of Pachelbel's pieces from today's episode as well as a few others.Listen to it here.
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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We’re kicking off a new school year here in the U.S., and I thought I’d kick off the back-to-school season with a brand new composer series on famous Baroque composer Johann Pachelbel. Today we’ll learn about his life, style and legacy. In two weeks, be sure to tune in again when we dig in deep […]
You've reached this summer's FINAL destination on our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music tour! We're heading to Turkey and learning about the enchanting, beautiful folk music there. Don't forget to print your passport stamp and check out the YouTube playlist at the bottom of this post, where you can see the instruments we discuss in today's episode.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Turkey Stamp
Visit Scotland (Episode 98)
Visit India (Episode 99)
Visit Jamaica (Episode 100)
Visit Australia (Episode 101)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Best Turkish Folk Songs | Traditional Music #1
Muhlis Berberoğlu - Bahçalarda Mor Meni
Raquy Darbuka Music Video - Monkey Mind
Dimitrie Cantemir Taqsim Makam Turkish classical music
Turkish Folk Songs | Eastern Black Sea | Traditional Music
Çökertme - Turkish Folk Song from Aegean Region | AyseDeniz
Anadolu Rock Seçmeler (Orjinal Versiyonlar)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 102 This episode's playlist is on the shorter side, but it highlights the beauty and intricacy of some of the Turkish instruments we discussed in today's episode.Listen to it here.
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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
You’ve reached this summer’s FINAL destination on our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music tour! We’re heading to Turkey and learning about the enchanting, beautiful folk music there. Don’t forget to print your passport stamp and check out the YouTube playlist at the bottom of this post, where you can see the instruments […]
Episode 101 takes us to Australia to explore the rich and varied folk music of the people in the land "down under". In this episode, you'll hear instruments and songs of the Aboriginal people, toe-tapping polkas and the unofficial national anthem of this beautiful country.
Don't forget to print your passport stamp and check out the YouTube playlist at the bottom of this post. You'll have a chance to SEE all the dancing and instruments that we discuss in today's episode.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
5 Day Summer of Sight-reading Challenge
Print the Passport
Print Australia Stamp
Visit Scotland (Episode 98)
Visit India (Episode 99)
Visit Jamaica (Episode 100)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Aussie Folk Song - Waltzing Matilda
Traditional Didgeridoo Rhythms by Lewis Burns, Aboriginal Australian Artist
Aboriginal dance show - Australia
Commonwealth of Australia | Heel and Toe Polka
Commonwealth of Australia | Bush Dance
"Waltzing Matilda" - Australian Patriotic Song
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 101 You'll love this playlist of folk songs from Australia, featuring video performances of some of the folk dances discussed in today's episode.Listen to it here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Episode 101 takes us to Australia to explore the rich and varied folk music of the people in the land “down under”. In this episode, you’ll hear instruments and songs of the Aboriginal people, toe-tapping polkas and the unofficial national anthem of this beautiful country. Don’t forget to print your passport stamp and check out […]
Welcome to the ONE HUNDREDTH episode of Busy Kids Love Music! This podcast is one of my favorite things I do in my business, and I'm so grateful to all of you who support our little corner of the Internet by listening to and sharing about this podcast with others. Thanks for being here!
In today's brand new episode, we are visiting our 3rd country in our annual summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music. We'll be learning about the rich and vibrant folk music of Jamaica. You won't believe the widespread influence the music of this tiny island country has! Be sure to check out the curated playlist that I've linked to at the bottom of this post, because there are so many fun performances of Jamaican folk music to view.
If you're new here, here's how Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music works: With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new country and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from JAMAICA
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Jamaica Stamp
Visit Scotland (Episode 98)
Visit India (Episode 99)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
MENTO 1) HILL AND GULLY RIDER
Harry Belafonte Banana Boat Song Day O + lyrics
Good Old Jamaican SKA! - Original 60's Ska Music Compilation
Rocksteady! (Volume 1) The Roots Of Reggae - Jamaican Music Compilation
Jamaica 50th Reggae Greats (Full Album)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 100 This fun and uplifting playlist that I've put together to you features a variety of styles of Jamaican folk music. You'll get to see Harry Belafonte perform with the Muppets, the Jolly Boys play a rhumba box, and Bob Marley's iconic reggae song, "One Love".Listen to it here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome to the ONE HUNDREDTH episode of Busy Kids Love Music! This podcast is one of my favorite things I do in my business, and I’m so grateful to all of you who support our little corner of the Internet by listening to and sharing about this podcast with others. Thanks for being here! […]
Welcome back to our second episode in the Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series. I absolutely loved researching this episode all about the folk music of India. Don't skip out on the playlist I've put together for you below! There are so many beautiful and fascinating instruments that we'll learn about in today's episode, and I would love for you to SEE them being played and performed in the video clips.
If you're new here, here's how Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music works: With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new country and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from INDIA!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
5-Day Summer of Sight-Reading Challenge
Print the Passport
Print India Stamp
Visit Scotland (Episode 98)
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Incredible Indian Folk | Rajasthan Nomads Music
Bhangra Boliyan (The Folk Project) (Full Audio) | Pukhraz | Jasraj Lailna | Folk Vibez Music
Indian Sitar Instrumental Music
Hang Drum + Tabla || Pure Positive Energy Meditation Music || Namaste Music, Yoga Music
Traditional Hindu Music | Madhyalaya | Instrumental Indian Music
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 99 I have a FANTASTIC playlist for you, which includes dancing, instrument demonstrations, and all kinds of beautiful folk music from India.Listen to it here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome back to our second episode in the Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series. I absolutely loved researching this episode all about the folk music of India. Don’t skip out on the playlist I’ve put together for you below! There are so many beautiful and fascinating instruments that we’ll learn […]
Welcome to our THIRD annual summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! If you're new around here, here's how it works:
With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new country and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from SCOTLAND!
When I was prepping for this summer's series, I asked followers on social media where they would like to visit this summer. The country with the most requests was Scotland! Many folks mentioned they were excited to learn about the bagpipe -- and don't worry, we'll definitely cover that in the episode.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Scotland Stamp
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Scotland Traditional Music
Scottish Bagpipes | Celtic Music with Beautiful Views of Scotland, Ireland and Wales
Robert Burns Complete Songs - What can a young lassie do wi' an auld man
Elephant Sessions - For The Night [Official Video]
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 98 I think you'll love the playlist I've created for you on YouTube to correspond with this episode! It contains a wonderful sampling of Scottish folk music -- both contemporary fusions and original songs -- and allows you to also see and hear some of the instruments that were discussed in today's episode. Listen to it here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome to our THIRD annual summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! If you’re new around here, here’s how it works: With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new country and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each […]
In our last episode, we learned about the Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff. You might recall learning that he composed in the Romantic style of music, and especially featured the piano in his work.
Today we're going to take a more in-depth at some of his most famous piano compositions, his collection of preludes. While we won't learn about each and every one of them (he wrote one for each major and minor key!), we'll learn about the collection as a whole and some of the ones that are performed most frequently.
MUSIC HEARD IN THIS EPISODE Rachmaninoff Prelude in C Sharp minor Op.3 No.2 Lisitsa
Yuja Wang – Rachmaninov: Prelude in G Minor, Op. 23, No. 5 (Live at Philharmonie, Berlin / 2018)
Ashkenazy plays Rachmaninov Prelude Op.32 No.12 in G sharp minor
MUSIC LISTENING SCHEDULE FOR EPISODE 97
I've created a curated playlist on YouTube of some of the music from today's episode as well as complete performances of all Rachmaninoff's piano preludes. Listen to the playlist here.
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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
As a pianist, I'm thrilled to introduce you to a legendary pianist and composer in today's episode -- the first of 2 in a series -- about Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff.
Both hearing and playing his piano music gets me all in my feelings, and I think you'll understand what I mean after you listen to some of his very expressive music in our episode today. I hope you enjoy the breathtaking beauty of his lyrical compositions as you learn about the ups and downs of this composer's life!
MUSIC HEARD IN THIS EPISODE Sergei Rachmaninoff – The Bells, Op.35 – Simon Rattle, Berliner Philharmoniker
Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto no.2 op.18 - Anna Fedorova - Complete Live Concert
Sergei Rachmaninoff - Three Nocturnes for Piano
MUSIC LISTENING SCHEDULE FOR EPISODE 96
I've created a curated playlist on YouTube of some of the music from today's episode as well as other famous works by Sergei Rachmaninoff. Listen to the playlist here.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
As Broadway month continues, I’m so excited to bring you a very special interview on today’s episode.
When I was in New York City last month, I had the honor of interviewing a REAL, ACTUAL person on Broadway! Meg Zervoulis is a music director, conductor, teacher, arranger and accompanist who has a busy career in musical theatre. As you’ll learn from the interview, her time is precious — and she was so kind to meet with me at a recording studio near Times Square during her short dinner break amidst a busy day of rehearsal.
There is so much valuable advice that Meg shares in her interview — not just because they are important lessons for those of you hoping to pursue a career in music one day, but also because they are just important life lessons. I hope you’ll tune in and enjoy the chance to listen and learn from this gifted musician!
LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Busy Kids Do Piano Membership
Busy Moms Do Piano Membership
Meg Zervoulis
Maestra Music
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
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Two of my very favorite things are music (duh!) and theatre. So when you combine those two things? Well, let's just say Broadway musicals are way up there for me. And since this month's Broadway month here in the Busy Kids community, our next two episodes will be focused on this favorite thing of mine.
Last month, I had the privilege of visiting New York City and researching the history of Broadway, while taking in a few shows myself. (You can check out some highlights from when I visited the Museum of Broadway on my Instagram reel.)
In today's episode, we're going to learn about what it is that defines a Broadway show and a little bit of the history of how Broadway musicals came to be. Be sure to join me in a couple of weeks for the next episode, where I'll be sharing my interview with a Broadway music director!
SPECIAL BONUS
To go along with this episode, I have a special bonus for you. I'm sharing links to all of my piano lesson tutorials for Broadway songs -- six tutorials in all! Click here to have the tutorials sent to you.
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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
I'm so thrilled to be able to share today's very special episode with you. If you've ever been to Nashville, Tennessee at all, you probably know why it is called "Music City". Walk down the famous Broadway Street of downtown and you'll hear live music beckoning from every restaurant and bar. Everywhere you turn, there are legendary music venues such as Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Old Opry. Modern-day Music Row -- the area around 16th and 17th Avenues South -- is populated with a collection of recording studios, record labels, entertainment offices -- all kinds of businesses related to the music industry.
Nashville has also long been known as the "Songwriting Capital of the World" because songwriters from all over the globe come to Nashville to learn about and collaborate in the art of songwriting. Nashville is one of our favorite places to visit as a music-loving family, and when our family stole away for a quick getaway to Music City, I was so excited to be able to connect with Nashville singer/songwriter Tori Tullier.
Today's podcast episode is a bit longer than our typical episodes around here, because I'm sharing my interview with this lovely songbird. I think you'll find it fascinating to learn about the art of songwriting from someone who actually does this for a living! Tori is as warm and lovely as she is talented and was so generous with her time in answering my questions about her life and career with thoughtful candor.
After you listen to Tori Tullier's interview, you're going to want to listen to more of her music and follow her. Check out the links below to keep up with her:
Tori Tullier (website)
Follow on Facebook
Follow on Instagram
Listen on Spotify
Listen on YouTube
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Women's History Month is a fantastic time to celebrate and recognize the achievements of women in music, and today we're spotlighting the talented French composer, Lili Boulanger.
Boulanger's life was tragically short, but her life experiences are certainly a lesson in never giving up on your dreams.
Be sure to check out other episodes from the archives about female composers throughout history:
Episode 16: Important Moments for Women in Music History
Episode 15: Fanny Mendelssohn
Episode 42: Clara Schumann
Episode 66: The Life and Music of Florence Price
Music Heard in this Episode:
Lili Boulanger - Piano Works
Boulanger: Faust et Hélène - Radio Filharmonisch Orkest o.l.v. Karina Canellakis
Lili Boulanger: D'un soir triste
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 92 Check out this link for a curated playlist of works by Lili Boulanger. This is an excellent playlist to have on in the background while doing other work, allowing you to become more appreciative and familiar with the works of Lili Boulanger..
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On this podcast, we learn about many composers whose names are familiar to you because they are composers who are widely recognized and performed.
But there are many great composers whose names are not familiar to us, whose works have been largely lost over time.
Today we are going to learn about one such composer. A biracial violin prodigy who inspired one of Beethoven's most famous and passionate pieces, George Bridgetower is mostly known for his famous public rift with the volatile composer. We'll learn more about the legendary concert where two brilliant performers dazzled a crowd with their incredible skills, though only one performer would go onto become a household name.
Music Heard in this Episode:
George Bridgetower - Henry: a Ballad - arr. String Quartet
George Bridgetower: Henry, A Ballad (c. 1812)
Beethoven.Violin.Sonata.No.9.Op.47.kreutzer. [Anne-Sophie Mutter.-.Lambert.Orkis]
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 91 As I note in the podcast, the majority of Bridgetower's works are, sadly, lost to us. The playlist I've put together includes two recordings of the one piece we do have available to us, a performance of the "Bridgetower" Sonata, and and an excerpt of an opera about Bridgetower that was mentioned in the podcast. You can view the playlist here.
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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
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Happy Valentine's Day! In celebration of the holiday, we're going to be diving deep into three real-life love stories of composers.
The first one is a perfectly lovely, normal romance.
The second one is a tragic love triangle.
The third one is...well...more of a stalker situation than a love story. But it resulted in a musical masterpiece.
This episode is filled with beautiful excerpts from songs that were inspired by these real-life romances. Be sure to check out the playlist below to hear the music from the episode in its entirety!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Parent-Child Piano 101 Workshop: Everything You Need to Know to Play Your 1st Song at the Piano
Music Heard in this Episode:
Anna Magdalena Bach Notebook (complete) P. Barton, FEURICH harmonic pedal piano
Schumann - Bunte Blätter, Op. 99 - Grigory Sokolov, Geneva 12.12.2020
Brahms: Variations on a Theme by Schumann, Op.9 (Barenboim, Biret)
Berlioz : Symphonie Fantastique (Fantastical Symphony)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 90 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes a variety of incredible music inspired by the romances you learned about today. Many of these songs are lengthy, so I suggest using the playlist as background music while you complete other activities!
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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We're finishing up our 3-part series on Austrian composer Franz Schubert. Today we're learning about his most famous art song, Der Erlkönig. What is an art song, you ask? Well I'm going to answer that question in today's episode as we learn the spooky story of this poem (written by Goethe) and how Schubert created the characters of the poem using the instruments of the voice and the piano.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 87: The Life and Music of Franz Schubert
Episode 88: Ave Maria
Music Heard in this Episode:
Schubert - Der Erlkönig (complete version)
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We're continuing our 3-part series on composer Franz Schubert by studying a piece of his that you might be familiar with, Ave Maria. But chances are, you aren't familiar with the very original text and story of how this piece came to be. We're going to learn all about it in today's episode. And you don't want to miss this episode's beautiful, curated playlist on YouTube, linked at the bottom of this post.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 87: The Life and Music of Franz Schubert
Music Heard in this Episode:
Schubert - Ave Maria
Ave Maria (Schubert) - Solo Harp - Helen Maxwell, Harpist
Schubert/Liszt - Ave Maria
ANDREA BOCELLI (HQ) AVE MARIA (SCHUBERT)
Ave Maria Schubert Liszt Valentina Lisitsa
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 88 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes a variety of incredible performances and different interpretations and instrumentations of Schubert's masterpiece. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Years ago, when I lived in Montana, I was good friends with a fellow colleague and concert pianist who also happened to be a dog lover. His beloved retriever at that time was named Schubert. When I first met Schubert, I told his pianist owner, "I meet a lot of dogs named Mozart and Beethoven, but I've never met one named Schubert."
He told me that Schubert is one of the most under-appreciated composers yet also one of the greatest.
I realized that in my years of piano study under many talented teachers, I had only learned a few Schubert pieces along the way. I set out to rectify that and it completely changed my own view and appreciation of this composer.
I'm excited to dig into Schubert's life and works with you in our next 3-episode series. We'll kick it off in this episode by learning a bit about his short life and his style and techniques as a composer.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Enrollment to Busy Kids Do Piano
Enrollment to Busy Moms Do Piano
Music Heard in this Episode:
Franz Schubert - Piano Sonata D. 959
Franz Schubert - Fantasy for Violin and Piano
Franz Schubert - Symphony No. 1
Schubert - Ave Maria
Schubert: Fantasie in F minor - Lucas & Arthur Jussen
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 87 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some performances of music from today's episode as well as a few additional pieces from Franz Schubert. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
One of the things I love about doing this podcast is that I often uncover music that is new-to-me -- a piece or a composer that I never have heard about, despite minoring in music in college and playing classical piano for most of my life. The episode I put together today is an example of one such "new-to-me" piece -- an unexpectedly gentle and surprisingly accessible collection of piano songs by Franz Liszt: Christmas Tree Suite. Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Waitlist for Busy Kids/Busy Moms Do Piano
Episode 32: The Piano
Music Heard in this Episode:
Franz Liszt - The Christmas Tree Suite
Weihnachstraum, S186/R71: IV. Adeste Fideles (March of the Three Holy Kings)
"Glockenspiel" from Weihnachtslied (Liszt)
"Schlummerlied" (Slumber Song) by Franz Liszt - Maria Dolnycky, piano
Liszt Ehemals
Liszt - Die Hirten and der Krippe - "In dulce jubilo"
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 86 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some performances of music from today's episode as well as other orchestrations and versions of Christmas Tree Suite. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
If you've been around here awhile, you know that I love all things Nutcracker. It's such a fantastic way to introduce even the littlest ones to the world of classical music. (I even created a whole music camp around it for this reason.) A few episodes ago, we learned about the musical genius of Duke Ellington. Did you know he partnered with another creative genius to put together a super amazing JAZZ version of Tchaikovsky's famous ballet? We're going to learn all about it in today's episode.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Free Nutcracker Camp
Episode 82: Duke Ellington
Episode 9: The Nutcracker
Music Heard in this Episode:
Duke Ellington - Overture
Duke Ellington - Peanut Brittle Brigade (March)
(1) The Nutcracker, Op. 71, TH 14 (Excerpts) : No. 14c, Pas de deux. Var. 2, Dance of the Sugar
Duke Ellington - Sugar Rum Cherry (Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy)
Duke Ellington - The Volga Vouty (Russian Dance)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 85 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some of Ellington's and Strayhorn's re-imagined interpretations from the Nutcracker. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Many countries around the world celebrate a festival or holiday of Thanksgiving. As we celebrate ours this week here in the United States, I put together a podcast episode where we'll learn about three classical songs that focus on thankfulness. Enjoy!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 12: Beethoven’s Nine Symphonies
Music Heard in this Episode:
Simple Gifts (Instrumental)
Simple Gifts from Appalachian Spring
Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op. 68 "Pastoral": V. Allegretto - Shepherd's Song, Thanksgiving
Crüger: Now Thank We All Our God (Nun Danket)
Bach - Nun danket alle Gott BWV 657 - Kofler | Netherlands Bach Society
Edward Taylor plays Nun danket alle Gott by S. Karg Elert
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 84 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some music from today's episode as a few additional arrangements of the songs discussed. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Many countries around the world celebrate a festival or holiday of Thanksgiving. As we celebrate ours this week here in the United States, I put together a podcast episode where we’ll learn about three classical songs that focus on thankfulness. Enjoy! Links Mentioned in this Episode: Episode 12: Beethoven’s Nine Symphonies Music […]
It’s time to learn about another musical instrument, this time from the woodwind family of instruments. Today’s episode is all about the clarinet. The clarinet is a versatile instrument used in a variety of genres — including a famous piece of music written just for kids!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 3: The Flute
Music Heard in this Episode:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Clarinet Concerto in A major, K.622
Clarinet Concerto in B-Flat Major: I. Allegro
Prokofiev Peter and the Wolf Cat Themes
Sidney Bechet Jazz Clarinet : Blues Clarinette, Blue Horizon / Best Blue Note Jazzmen
Essentially Ellington 2019: Dillard Center for the Arts – Blues to Be There
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 83 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some music from today’s episode as a few additional songs featuring the clarinet. You can view the videos I’ve complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Today we're learning about a legendary American composer who made significant contributions to the musical world, Duke Ellington. He has such a vast library of works and was always experimenting with new techniques and styles, and I think you're going to love learning about him and hearing a sampling of his works.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Save $25 on your Daily Harvest box
Music Heard in this Episode:
Duke Ellington, "Take the A Train"
Duke Ellington - It don't mean a thing
East St. Louis Toodle-Oo - Duke Ellington and his Kentucky Club Orchestra
Duke Ellington - Swampy River
mood indigo - Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington - Black, brown and beige
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 82 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some music from today's episode as a few additional songs from Duke Ellington. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Today we’re learning about a legendary American composer who made significant contributions to the musical world, Duke Ellington. He has such a vast library of works and was always experimenting with new techniques and styles, and I think you’re going to love learning about him and hearing a sampling of his works. […]
We are finishing up our 4-part series on the four major periods of music history in this episode by learning about the era you and I are currently living in -- the Contemporary Era of music.
The music of our time is VAST in style. You're going to hear works today from composers who had many different ideas about how to create music.
Be sure to check out all the links I've included below to learn more about some of the composers from this period that we've discussed previously on the podcast.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 78: The Baroque Era
Episode 79: The Classical Era
Episode 80: The Romantic Era
Previous Episodes About Contemporary Composers:
Episode 23: Scott Joplin
Episode 53: The Life of Claude Debussy (overlaps Romantic and Contemporary period)
Episode 57: The Life and Music of Villa-Lobos
Episode 66: The Life and Music of Florence Price
Music Heard in this Episode:
Scott Joplin - Ragtime
Reich: Piano Phase
H A N S Zimmer Ultimate Mix - The Most Beautiful Film Music
Debussy - Arabesque No.1 and No.2
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 81 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some music from today's episode as a few additional songs from the Modern Era. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We are finishing up our 4-part series on the four major periods of music history in this episode by learning about the era you and I are currently living in — the Contemporary Era of music. The music of our time is VAST in style. You’re going to hear works today from composers who […]
We are moving right along in our series about the 4 major periods of western classical music by learning about the Romantic Era in today's episode. As a pianist, I'm rather partial to the music of this era -- which was a time when many virtuoso pianists composed and performed. The expressive music in today's episode makes for a beautiful and dramatic experience as we learn more about this period of time from 1830-1900.
Be sure to check out all the links I've included below to learn more about some of the composers from this period that we've discussed previously on the podcast.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Music History Course
Episode 78: The Baroque Era
Episode 79: The Romantic Era
Previous Episodes About Romantic Composers:
Episode 32: The Piano
Episode 2: Edvard Grieg & Peer Gynt Suite
Episode 15: Fanny Mendelssohn
Episode 20: The Life of Tchaikovsky
Episode 40: Frédéric Chopin
Episode 42: Clara Schumann
Episode 44: The Life of Johannes Brahms
Music Heard in this Episode:
Beethoven: Symphony No. 6, Pastoral | Bernard Haitink & Berlin Philharmonic
Eric Lu – Mazurka in A minor Op. 17 No. 4
Johannes Brahms -- Hungarian Dance No.5 - Hungarian Symphony Orchestra Budapest
Franz Liszt Hungarian Rhapsody no 2
Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake (Swan Theme)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 80 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes music from today's episode as a few additional songs from the Romantic Era. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We are moving right along in our series about the 4 major periods of western classical music by learning about the Romantic Era in today's episode. As a pianist, I'm rather partial to the music of this era -- which was a time when many virtuoso pianists composed and performed. The expressive music in today's episode makes for a beautiful and dramatic experience as we learn more about this period of time from 1830-1900.
Be sure to check out all the links I've included below to learn more about some of the composers from this period that we've discussed previously on the podcast.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Music History Course
Episode 78: The Baroque Era
Episode 79: The Romantic Era
Previous Episodes About Romantic Composers:
Episode 32: The Piano
Episode 2: Edvard Grieg & Peer Gynt Suite
Episode 15: Fanny Mendelssohn
Episode 20: The Life of Tchaikovsky
Episode 40: Frédéric Chopin
Episode 42: Clara Schumann
Episode 44: The Life of Johannes Brahms
Music Heard in this Episode:
Beethoven: Symphony No. 6, Pastoral | Bernard Haitink & Berlin Philharmonic
Eric Lu – Mazurka in A minor Op. 17 No. 4
Johannes Brahms -- Hungarian Dance No.5 - Hungarian Symphony Orchestra Budapest
Franz Liszt Hungarian Rhapsody no 2
Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake (Swan Theme)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 80 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes music from today's episode as a few additional songs from the Romantic Era. You can view the videos I've complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We are continuing our series on the four major music periods of Western classical music by learning about...the Classical Era! Confused? We use ‘classical music’ (small C) as an umbrella term for Western instrumental, orchestral and choral (sung) music. But the Classical (big C!) era refers specifically to music that was composed between the years 1750 and 1820. This is the second of the 4 major periods, and many of the most well-known composers of all-time, such as Beethoven and Mozart, wrote during this period.
Be sure to check out all the links I've included below to learn more about some of the composers from this period that we've discussed previously on the podcast.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 78: The Baroque Era
Previous Episodes About Classical Composers:
Episode 17: Haydn – Musical Prankster
Episode 31: Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges
Episode 36: The Life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Episode 11: The Symphony
Episode 12: Beethoven’s Nine Symphonies
Music Heard in this Episode:
Mozart - The Piano Sonata No 16 in C major
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik - Mozart
Joseph Haydn - Piano Concerto No. 11 in D major, Hob. XVIII/11 - Mikhail Pletnev
Beethoven: 1. Sinfonie ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ Andrés Orozco-Estrada
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 79 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes music from today's episode as well as additional music from the Classical Era. You can view the videos I've complied here.
We are continuing our series on the four major music periods of Western classical music by learning about...the Classical Era! Confused? We use ‘classical music’ (small C) as an umbrella term for Western instrumental, orchestral and choral (sung) music. But the Classical (big C!) era refers specifically to music that was composed between the years 1750 and 1820. This is the second of the 4 major periods, and many of the most well-known composers of all-time, such as Beethoven and Mozart, wrote during this period.
Be sure to check out all the links I've included below to learn more about some of the composers from this period that we've discussed previously on the podcast.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 78: The Baroque Era
Previous Episodes About Classical Composers:
Episode 17: Haydn – Musical Prankster
Episode 31: Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges
Episode 36: The Life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Episode 11: The Symphony
Episode 12: Beethoven’s Nine Symphonies
Music Heard in this Episode:
Mozart - The Piano Sonata No 16 in C major
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik - Mozart
Joseph Haydn - Piano Concerto No. 11 in D major, Hob. XVIII/11 - Mikhail Pletnev
Beethoven: 1. Sinfonie ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ Andrés Orozco-Estrada
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 79 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes music from today's episode as well as additional music from the Classical Era. You can view the videos I've complied here.
We're kicking off a brand new, four-part series on the podcast -- all about the four main periods of Western classical music. First up? The Baroque Period!
If you like things that are extravagant and fancy, then you will love the music of the Baroque period! You probably are familiar with some of the composers and music of this time in music history, even though you may not have realized that it was part of this era. So what exactly makes a piece of music "baroque"? We'll learn all about that in today's episode!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Music History
Previous Episodes About Baroque Composers:
Episode 28: The Life of J.S. Bach
Episode 63: The Life of George Frideric Handel
Music Heard in this Episode:
Bach: Harpsichord Concerto No.1 in D Minor BWV 1052 (Jean Rondeau)
Bach - Concerto in A minor BWV 1065 | Netherlands Bach Society
Pachelbel - Canon In D Major
Sonata in E Major K.380 (Scarlatti) – Pep Organ, St Mary's Cathedral Sydney
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 78 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes music from today's episode as well as additional music from the Baroque Era. You can view the videos I've complied here.
We're kicking off a brand new, four-part series on the podcast -- all about the four main periods of Western classical music. First up? The Baroque Period!
If you like things that are extravagant and fancy, then you will love the music of the Baroque period! You probably are familiar with some of the composers and music of this time in music history, even though you may not have realized that it was part of this era. So what exactly makes a piece of music "baroque"? We'll learn all about that in today's episode!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Music History
Previous Episodes About Baroque Composers:
Episode 28: The Life of J.S. Bach
Episode 63: The Life of George Frideric Handel
Music Heard in this Episode:
Bach: Harpsichord Concerto No.1 in D Minor BWV 1052 (Jean Rondeau)
Bach - Concerto in A minor BWV 1065 | Netherlands Bach Society
Pachelbel - Canon In D Major
Sonata in E Major K.380 (Scarlatti) – Pep Organ, St Mary's Cathedral Sydney
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 78 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes music from today's episode as well as additional music from the Baroque Era. You can view the videos I've complied here.
We've reached the final destination of our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music tour!
With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new destination and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Newfoundland & Labrador Stamp
Visit Indonesia
Visit Peru
Visit Morocco
Visit Ital
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Stan Rogers - Fogarty's Cove
Catch The Wind
Great Big Sea - The Banks of Newfoundland
I'se The B'y - Great Big Sea - Lyrics
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 77 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes music from today's episode as well as additional folk music from Newfoundland & Labrador. You can view the videos I've complied here.
We’re nearing the end of our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music.
With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new destination and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from INDONESIA!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Your Indonesia Stamp
Visit Peru
Visit Morocco
Visit Italy
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Traditional Indonesian Music – Java
Sound Tracker – Gamelan (Indonesia)
Vita Alvia – Kopi Dangdut – Tarik Sis Semongko (Official Music Video ANEKA SAFARI)
Nasida Ria – Jakarta Jakarta (Official Music Video)
UNIC – Ya Hanana (Official Music Video)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 76 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes four samples of Indonesian folk music. You can view the videos I’ve complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome back for our third stop on our world tour — our summer series special called Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music.
With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new destination and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from ITALY!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Your Italy Stamp
Peter & the Wolf Music Camp
Visit Peru
Visit Morocco
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Italian Folk Music
Arlequin – La Piva dal Carnèr
Occitan Folk Song – A l’entrada del temps clar
Tarantelas. Luigi Albertini
The Best Italian Songs of All Time
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 75 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes five samples of folk music and dancing. You can view the videos I’ve complied here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome back for our second stop on our world tour — our summer series special called Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music.
With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new destination and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from MOROCCO!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Your Morocco Stamp
Busy Kids Do Music Camp
Visit Peru
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Morocco Chaabi Music
Andalusian Classical Music
Berber music
Ammouri M’barek – Nik Dik Tazwit |Music, Tachlhit ,tamazight, souss , اغنية , امازيغية ,جميلة
Laïla Amezian : Les Sheikhs Shikhats & B’net Chaabi
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 74 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today’s episode. Click here to listen to it and see some of the Moroccan musicians in action!
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
I am so excited to kick off a special summer series on the podcast today — our second edition of Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music.
With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we’ll be traveling to a new destination and learning about that particular place’s folk music. As you listen to each episode, you’ll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode’s stamp — from PERU!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Your Peru Stamp
Busy Kids Do Music History
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
International Folk Festival – MUSIC OF PERU led by Claudia Medina
A Taste of Afro-Peruvian Music | Tony Succar
Huayno. Music Of Peru Vol. 2 1960-1975
Marinera Norteña Concheperla
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 73 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today’s episode. Click here to listen to it and see some of the beautiful dances of the Peruvian people.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Have you ever found yourself so deeply moved by a song that you are moved to tears? Have you ever had a terrible day and then your favorite song came on the radio and completely changed your mood? Music has the power to move and inspire us. There have been songs throughout history that stir strong emotions and build group identity, and today we are going to learn about and listen to one such song.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Busy Kids Do Music History
Children's Book Recommendation
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Kirk Franklin - Lift Every Voice and Sing
The Roxbury Latin Glee Club: Lift Every Voice and Sing
Lift Every Voice and Sing | Piano Instrumental
Lift Every Voice and Sing with Lyrics
"Lift Every Voice and Sing"
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 72 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today’s episode along with some other arrangements of the pieces you've heard. Click here to listen to it.
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We’ve explored many instruments on the podcast (see links to those episodes below), and today, we’re taking a deep dive into the world of the trombone! This instrument requires great skill and precision to play and is a staple for many different musical genres. In this episode, you’ll hear a smattering of some of the ways a trombone can be used as you learn about the construction and history of this versatile instrument. Be sure to check out my curated playlist to see and hear some fabulous trombonists work their magic!
Other Podcast Episodes About Instruments
Episode 3: The Flute
Episode 7: The Cello
Episode 10: The Saxophone
Episode 18: The Trumpet
Episode 24: All About that [Double] Bass
Episode 32: The Piano
Episode 52: The Harp
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Rimsky Korsakov Trombone Concerto Movement 1: Allegro Vivace
Schwob Trombone Ensemble – Apogee Fanfare (Chris Sharpe)
Beethoven 5th Symphony, Mov IV (Trombones & Trumpets)
J. J. Johnson – Like Someone In Love
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 71 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today’s episode along with some other arrangements of the pieces you’ve heard. Click here to listen to it.
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
When it comes to things that have inspired the great works of composers throughout history, we’ve discussed many of these in episodes past. From bugs to the weather, there is plenty around us to get the creative juices of great artists flowing! Today, we’ll take a look at three pieces that were inspired by the mothers of composers in the past. You’ll find quite the variety of words and styles when it comes to these three compositions! Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Empress of Night Op.2, No.3 by Amy Beach
Amy Beach – Piano Concerto
Augustin Hadelich – Dvořák: “Songs My Mother Taught Me” (with Charles Owen)
A. Dvořák: Songs My Mother Taught Me
Edith Wiens “Muttertändelei” Richard Strauss Op. 43
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 70 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today’s episode along with some other arrangements of the pieces you’ve heard. Click here to listen to it.
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We’re finishing up our series on the March King, John Philip Sousa, in today’s episode of Busy Kids Love Music. We’re going to learn all about the official piece of the United States Marine Corps – Semper Fidelis.
Links Mentioned in this Episode: Busy Kids Do Piano Membership
Busy Moms Do Piano Membership
Episode 67: The Life & Music of John Philip Sousa
Episode 68: The Stars and Stripes Forever
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Semper Fidelis – John Philip Sousa
Can you identify the sections of the military march form as you listen to the music above?
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Let's continue our series on John Philip Sousa today by digging into one of his most famous pieces, "The Stars and Stripes Forever." There is SO MUCH to discuss about this piece! We'll learn the story about how and why he wrote the famous march and we'll also study the structure of a traditional military band march that Sousa left as his legacy.
Links Mentioned in this Episode: Free Piano 101 Course
Episode 67: The Life & Music of John Philip Sousa
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode: Stars and Stripes Forever
SOUSA The Stars and Stripes Forever
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 68 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today's episode along with some other arrangements of "The Stars and Stripes Forever." Click here to listen to it.
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In episodes past, we've learned about composers who've earned titles such as the King of Ragtime (Scott Joplin) or Father of the Symphony (Franz Joseph Haydn). Today we're going to learn about the March King as we kick off a new composer series about American composer John Philip Sousa.
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode: SOUSA The Stars and Stripes Forever - "The President's Own" U.S. Marine Band
SOUSA Our Flirtation (1880) - "The President's Own" U.S. Marine Band
SOUSA Semper Fidelis - "The President's Own" US Marine Band
SOUSA Hands Across the Sea (1899) - "The President's Own" United States Marine Band
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 67 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today's episode along with some other arrangements of pieces of ohn Philip Sousa's music. Click here to listen to it.
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It’s Women’s History Month — so we’re celebrating and learning about a fantastic female composer named Florence B. Price in today’s episode! Her background and training in European classical music with Black church tradition resulted in many unique and incredible masterpieces.
Other Episodes to Check Out During Women’s History Month:
Episode 15: Fanny Mendelssohn
Episode 16: Important Moments for Women in Music History
Episode 42: Clara Schumann
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode: Florence B. Price “Adoration”
Florence Price – Fantasie Negre (1929)
Price: Symphony No. 1 in E Minor – II. Largo, maestoso
‘SWING LOW, SWEET CHARIOT’, from ‘Five Folksongs in Counterpoint | Florence B. Price
DSO – My Soul Been Anchored in the Lord – arr. Florence Price, orch. William Henry Curry (Premiere)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 66 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today’s episode along with some other arrangements of pieces of Florence Price’s music. Check it out here.
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For our final episode in our composer series about George Frideric Handel, we're going to learn the story behind another of his most famous compositions -- Water Music, a collection of orchestral works performed for the king. If you enjoyed the music from this episode, be sure to check out the corresponding listening calendar as well as previous episodes from our Handel series. Links Mentioned in this Episode Busy Preschoolers Do Music Course
Episode 63: The Life and Works of George Frideric Handel
Episode 64: Music for the Royal Fireworks
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode: Handel: Water Music, Overture
Handel Water Music: Hornpipe; FestspielOrchester Göttingen, Laurence Cummings, director
Handel - Water Music - Air
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 65 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today's episode along with some other arrangements of pieces from Water Music. Check it out here.
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Imagine that you're able to attend what is to be the most expensive, spectacular fireworks display ever, set to the music of the most popular musician ever. What a grand event that would be!
In 1749, such an event occurred -- and the popular musician to arrange the music? None other than George Frideric Handel. Let's learn about his famous collection of music for this important event in today's episode.
When it comes to famous Baroque composers, Handel is certainly one of the most recognizable. His oratorio The Messiah is one of the best-known classical works of all time. He had some of the wealthiest most notable patrons of the period, which allowed him to pursue his career as a composer securely and compose prolifically. Today we’re going to kick off our 3-part series on Handel by learning a bit of his life and background.
Brrrrrr…winter is underway! What do you think of when you think of winter? Maybe it makes you think of having to shovel snow and help your grown-up scrape off the car whenever you go places. Maybe you love winter and the cozy feeling of sitting by a fireplace with hot cocoa in hand. Composers thought of lots of different things when it came to winter, and today we’re going to take a look at some winter-inspired classical music!
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode: Antonio Vivaldi – Winter (Full) – The Four Seasons
Émile Waldteufel: The Skater’s Waltz
Josef Strauss – Winterlust – Polka-schnell, Op. 121
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 62 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with the music discussed in today’s episode along with a few other winter-inspired pieces. Check it out here.
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When it comes to music associated with New Year's Eve, the song Auld Lang Syne is likely one that comes to mind. In this episode, we'll learn the history of how this song was written and how it grew to world-wide notoriety through the years.
Link Mentioned in this Episode Busy Kids Do Piano Membership
Busy Moms Do Piano Membership
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode: Auld Lang Syne piano music
♫ Scottish Bagpipes - Auld Lang Syne ♫
Duke Ellington - Auld Lang Syne (Remastered)
Auld Lang Syne - String Quartet Tribute - Vitamin String Quartet
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 61 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a few different versions of Auld Lang Syne, including one that shows the corresponding dance often performed with the song in Scotland. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Today we’re going to learn about a famous ancient Christmas Carol. “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” was originally written in Latin and has an interesting history and symbolism in its original text. While the melody is perhaps a bit moodier than typical Christmas carols, this famous tune has been given contemporary makeovers from a variety of modern-day artists and has been re-interpreted by classical composers as well.
Link Mentioned in this Episode
Busy Kids Do Piano Waitlist
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 60 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with music from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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There is so much spectacular classical holiday music, and we've certainly dived into some on this podcast in Decembers past. One such holiday masterpiece which might be less familiar to you is J.S. Bach's Christmas Oratorio. In today's episode, we'll be listening to some beautiful excerpts of this six part work.
Link Mentioned in this Episode
Busy Kids Do Nutcracker Camp
Episode 28: The Life of J.S. Bach
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Bach: Christmas Oratorio I - 1. Jauchzet, frohlocket - Koopman
BWV 248 - Christmas Oratorio - Part 2 of 6
Bach: Christmas Oratorio (Part IV), BWV 248 (Kuijken)
BWV 248 - Christmas Oratorio - Part 6 of 6
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 59 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with music from Bach's Christmas Oratorio. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
From humble beginnings to becoming one of the leading conductors of his time, the life of Gustav Mahler certainly has the makings of a rags-to-riches storyline. Yet Mahler’s talents as a composer weren’t truly appreciated and recognized until 50 years after his death. Learn more about Mahler’s fascinating life and enjoy some of his music in this episode of Busy Kids Love Music.
Link Mentioned in this Episode
Busy Kids Play Christmas Music course
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Symphony No. 1 in D Major: II. Kraftig bewegt, doch nicht zu schnell
Mahler’s 8th symphony Finale
Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C-Sharp Minor – IV. Adagietto. Sehr langsam
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 58 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with music from today’s episode as well as other performances of Mahler’s work. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We often associate great classical music with names of European composers like Bach, Beethoven and Mozart. To be sure, those composers deserve to be the legends that they are, but the truth is that incredible music comes from all over the world. Today we're going to learn about an incredible composer from South America — one who combines the indigenous music of his home country with classical influences. The legendary conductor, guitarist, cellist and composer -- Heitor Villa-Lobos.
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Etude No. 1 • Villa-Lobos • Andrés Segovia
Cello Sonata No. 2 • Villa-Lobos • Antonio Meneses
Uirapurú • Villa-Lobos • Dani Pannullo Dance Theatre Company
Bachianas Brasileiras No. 1 • Villa-Lobos • Berlin Philharmonic
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 57 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with music from today’s episode as well as other performances of Villa-Lobos’s work. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Music composers find inspiration all around them. As I go for a walk in my neighborhood in October, the crisp air, changing colors of leaves and pumpkins on front porches certainly give me feelings of Fall! Composers were inspired by the seasons, too, and in today’s episode, I’m going to share with you three classical works that were inspired by the beautiful, colorful season of fall. Be sure to check out the playlist I’ve curated for more fall-inspired musical performances!
Let’s finish up our series on Claude Debussy by learning about his most well-known piece — "Clair de Lune". In this episode we’ll talk about how this piece got it’s name and how it actually was a setting for two different poems by the same author.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 53: The Life of Claude Debussy
Episode 54: Children’s Corner
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Pascal Rogé — “Clair de Lune”, Claude Debussy
Soprano Pretty Yende Sings Debussy’s “Clair de lune”
(1) Debussy: Claire de lune ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ Jean-Christophe Spinosi
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 55 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with music from today’s episode as well as other arrangements of Debussy’s “Clair de Lune”. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We’re continuing our series about Claude Debussy in this episode, and learning all about his famous Children’s Corner suite. This precious collection of music was composed by Debussy for his young daughter, Claude-Emma, who was nicknamed Chouchou. I think you’ll love hearing Chouchou’s dolls, toys, and imagination come to life in this playful, dream-like collection of piano works!
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Lang Lang – Debussy: Children’s Corner, L. 113: 1. Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum
Debussy: Children’s Corner, L. 113 – 2. Jimbo’s Lullaby
Claude Debussy – Serenade of the Doll, from “Children’s Corner”
Debussy “The Snow is Dancing” Paul Barton, FEURICH HP piano
Seong-Jin Cho – Debussy: Golliwog’s Cakewalk (Children’s Corner, L. 113)
Children’s Corner, L. 113 (Arr. A. Caplet for Orchestra) : I. Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 54 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with music from today’s episode as well as other arrangements of Debussy’s music from the Children’s Corner suite. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Today we are learning about one of my favorite composers -- French impressionist composer, Claude Debussy. His music is simply gorgeous and I love to both play it and hear it played. It feels and sounds dreamy and there's not usually a strong beat. There's something simply poetic about it.
Debussy's music was meant to create images and moods. As you check out this week's playlist after listening to the episode, try painting or coloring an image that comes into your mind as you listen to his music. When you do so, you can enter a fun drawing and win one of two $25 gift cards two Amazon!
Here's how to enter the drawing:
- Listen to the Debussy playlist I've put together for you. As you listen, paint or color or draw a picture inspired by the music that you hear.
- Send me an image of your picture at carly@busymomsdopiano.com or tag me on Social Media (be sure image setting is public!) on Instagram or Facebook.
- Entries must be received by midnight EST on September 7th. Drawing will be conducted on September 7th and two entrants will receive $25 gift cards to Amazon.
- Winners will be contacted via e-mail or social media (depending on how entry was submitted).
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Claude Debussy ‒ Images (Complete)
CLAUDE DEBUSSY: CLAIR DE LUNE
Claude Debussy - Violin Sonata
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 53 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of Debussy performances and interpretations that includes some of the music from today's episode. Check it out here. (Monet was a contemporary of Debussy, so you'll also enjoy "viewing" some of his art as you listen to the first song!)
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Here on the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, we've learned a bit of the history and importance of many different musical instruments -- among them the cello, the saxophone and the flute. In today's episode, we are learning about one of the oldest instruments, the harp.
Join me as we discover the ways this instrument was used in ancient times, its technological advancements through the centuries and how it continues to be played in a variety of musical genres today.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Piano Program
Busy Moms Do Piano Program
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Harp concert by Sophia Kiprskaya , soloist of the Mariinsky Theater
Harp-lute (kora) made by Idrissa Coulibay, Mali (Bamako)
Tchaikovsky - Waltz of the Flowers from Nutcracker on Harp cover by Alexander Boldachev
W. Mathias: Improvisations for Harp (Elinor Bennett, harp)
Celtic Harp at Lorient
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 52 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of visually stunning performances that include much of the music from today's episode. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Can you believe we've reached our FINAL stop in the Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music series? Today we're visiting the beautiful and colorful country of Mexico, where we'll learn about Son Mexicano, ranchera music, and of course, mariachi music -- all part of a diverse array of Mexican folk music. Be sure to print that final passport stamp (below) after you listen to today's episode!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Piano Free Snackable Course
Print your Mexico stamp
Links for Previous Passport Stamps:
Print your stamp and visit Japan
Print your stamp and visit Ireland
Print your stamp and visit Congo
Print the passport and visit Brazil
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Happy Mexican Traditional Music MEXICAN PARTY Mariachi, Guitar, Trumpet
La Perra, Son Planeco de Michoacán. Grupo Fandangueros
Mexican Music & Mariachi Music: Best Traditional & Most Popular Mexican Songs. Rancheras & Corridos
Folk Songs of Mexico (Alfonso Cruz Jimenez)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 51 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of visually stunning performances that include much of the music from today's episode. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We are heading to the Far East today to visit the country of Japan, a beautiful island country of Asia. The music we’ll be listening to in this episode is going to be different for your ears if you are used to listening to Western music, but it is filled with the beauty and history of the Japanese people and reflects their religious practices and theatrical forms.
We’re going to learn all sorts of brand new things as we listen to the folk music of Japan!
Let's head north of Africa for our next stop. We're heading to a gorgeous country in Europe with folk music that reflects the beauty found in its scenery and sites --Ireland.
Many unique instruments are used to create Irish folk music, and I'm going to tell you a little bit about some of them in today's episode as we listen to a variety of rich songs. Be sure to check out the playlist below so that you can see the instruments and musicians in action!
After you've listened to the podcast, don't forget to print your passport stamp below!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print your Ireland Stamp
Print the passport and visit Brazil
Print your stamp and visit Congo
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Irish Music | Beautiful Celtic Music | Traditional Irish Folk Music - YouTube
Swallowtail Jig - Irish Fiddle Tune! - YouTube
Brian Finnegan & Joseph Carmichael Irish Medley - YouTube
James Hamilton - Irish Flute - Two Jigs - YouTube
Uilleann piping - YouTube
Irish Polkas - YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 48 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of Irish folk music performances that includes much of the music from today's episode. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Today we are headed across the ocean to the heart of Africa -- to the country many consider to be the heartBEAT of African music -- the Democratic Republic of Congo. In our next stop for our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music will be learning about the rich and diverse folk music of the Congolese people.
After you've listened to and learned about the incredible folk music of Congo in this episode, be sure to print your passport stamp below and add it to your passport!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Your Congo Stamp
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
BIBOC - traditional folk musical assembly of Democratic Republic of Congo - YouTube
"Ngange" Bakolo Music International au Centre Wallonie Bruxelles - YouTube
Africa Mokili Mobimba | Playing For Change | Song Around The World - YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 48 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of Congolese folk music performances. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
I am so excited to kick off a very special summer series on the podcast today -- Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music.
With each new episode (new episodes air every 2 weeks), we'll be traveling to a new destination and learning about that particular place's folk music. As you listen to each episode, you'll collect a stamp to add to your passport while you work your way around the globe and learn about the incredible artists, cultures and communities that have contributed to folk music. Use the links below to download your passport and this episode's stamp -- from Brazil!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Print the Passport
Print Your Brazil Stamp
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Brejeiro - Brazilian Folk Song - YouTube
Afro-Brazilian Street Band in Salvador, Brazil - YouTube
Capoeira Music - YouTube
Evolução de Bateria - Maracatu Estrela Brilhante do Recife - YouTube
Mas, que Nada | Live in Brazil | Playing For Change - YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 47 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with fun selections of Brazilian folk music and dancing. Check it out here.
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In this episode, we’re finishing up our 3-episode series on the great Johannes Brahms. We learned in our last episode about Brahms’s entertaining and well-known Hungarian Dances. They were often lively, exciting and fun. In today’s episode, we’re talking about one of Brahms’s more “serious” works — something written because of his grief over losing a dear friend and his beloved mother.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 44: The Life of Johannes Brahms
Episode 45: The Hungarian Dances
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Brahms – Ein deutsches Requiem – 1. Selig sind – YouTube
J. Brahms: Wie lieblich sind deine Wohnungen (Ein Deutsches Requiem op. 45) – YouTube
Brahms – Ein deutsches Requiem – 7. Selig sind die Toten – YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 46 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with a few selections from Brahms’s famous requiem. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We’re continuing our series all about Johannes Brahms in today’s episode of Busy Kids Love Music by learning all about Brahms’s famous Hungarian Dances — a collection of entertaining dances inspired by Hungarian folk music. Be sure to visit the playlist I’ve curated for you — you’ll be able to SEE as well as hear some of the dances that are part of this beautiful culture.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Piano Membership
Busy Moms Do Piano Membership
Episode 44: The Life of Johannes Brahms
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Brahms – Hungarian Dance No. 1 – Part 1/9 – YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 45 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances of the songs by Johannes Brahms. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
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If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Today we’re kicking off a new composer series on one of the “three great Bs” — Johannes Brahms. In this episode, we’ll learn a little bit about his life before we go onto learn more about some of his most famous works in the next two episodes. Listen to this episode to learn about Brahms’ friendship with the Schumann family and how he expressed his feelings and interests through his music.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Busy Kids Do Piano Waitlist
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Brahms: Violinkonzert ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ Hilary Hahn ∙ Paavo Järvi – YouTube
Yuja Wang: Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major Op. 83 [HD] – YouTube
Yo-Yo Ma, Kathryn Stott – Lullaby (Brahms) – YouTube
Brahms: Ein deutsches Requiem ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ MDR-Rundfunkchor ∙ Solisten ∙ David Zinman – YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 44 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances of the songs by Johannes Brahms. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
When you think of things that have inspired famous musical works, you might think of the moonlight that inspired Debussy's "Clair de Lune" or Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata".
But did you ever think about a bee? Or even...a flea? Insects have inspired some of the most well-known -- and comical -- works of art in history. Today we're going to listen and learn about 3 such works of art.
March is Women’s History Month, so let’s celebrate a brilliant female composer and musician, shall we?
Clara Schumann was an incredibly gifted pianist and and composer who led a fascinating life. Her love story with another famous composer is one filled with triumphs and tragedies. In this episode you’ll learn about…
- Her rigid childhood piano practicing routine that earned her the nickname “Queen of Piano”
- Her greatest compositional work, written when she had 4 children underfoot
- How her virtuoso piano skills helped her composer-husband in his career
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
$25 off Daily Harvest Box
Episode 16: Landmark Moments for Women in Music History
Episode 15: Fanny Mendelssohn
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Isata Kanneh-Mason | Clara Schumann‘s Scherzo No.2 in C Minor | Classic FM Session – YouTube
Luisa Splett performs Clara Schumann: Variationen über ein Thema von Robert Schumann – YouTube
Schumann Piano Trio No.1 Clara Trio filmed by Simon – YouTube
Clara-Jumi Kang: C. Schumann, Three Romances for violin and piano, Op. 22 – YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 42 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances that include the pizzicato technique. Because it’s Women’s History Month, all these performances feature amazing female musicians! Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
In today’s episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re learning about all things PIZZICATO!
Isn’t that a fun word to say? It’s fun to listen to – and fun to play as well. You’re going to hear lots of examples of what it means to play with the pizzicato technique in our episode. We’ll listen to how different composers used pizzicato to set a certain mood, indicate weather or just get a little silly.
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Johann Strauss II – Pizzicato Polka – YouTube
Edvard Grieg: Anitra’s Dance from Peer Gynt Suite • Volker Hartung, conductor – YouTube
Vivaldi Four Seasons: Winter (L’Inverno), complete. Cynthia Freivogel & Voices of Music RV 297 4K – YouTube
Willie Dixon Awesome Bass Playing – YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 41 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances that include the pizzicato technique. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
When I was in college I loved tackling Frederic Chopin pieces with my piano teacher. While incredibly difficult, there was such a feeling of accomplishment when I learned the piece. I love all the opportunities for expression and emotion that his music allows. In today's episode of Busy Kids Love Music, you're going to learn about this much-loved composer while also listening to some of his beautifully expressive piano music. We will learn more about how...
- Chopin valued his Polish heritage and incorporated it into his music
- He earned the nickname "poet of the piano"
- His skills as a child earned a comparison to another famous child-composer
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Chopin Nocturne E Flat Major Op.9 No.2 - YouTube
Evgeny Kissin: Chopin - Piano Concerto No. 1, Op 11 (Tel Aviv, 2011) - YouTube
Chopin Military Polonaise op 40 no 1 in A major - YouTube
Chopin - Barcarolle in F sharp major op. 60 | Timothy Chiang - YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 40 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances and interpretations of Chopin's music. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
It’s Black History Month, and today’s episode is all about hip hop music — which has its roots in African and Black American culture. I’m thrilled to have to very special guests on this episode, Christina M. Johnson and her daughter Jael (aka DJ K) to give you some background about hip hop music. Christina and Jael are hip hop artists and, together with their family, have written a best-selling children’s book about hip hop music called Hip Hop Hair.
You’ll learn about…
- the beginnings of hip hop music
- what poetry and hip hop have in common
- how DJ K creates her own hip hop beats using technology (that you can use, too!)
Links Mentioned in this Episode
@umotiv8cre8tions | Linktree
HIP HOP HAIR – Kindle edition by JOHNSON, JFAM, JOHNSON, ABIGAIL, C, JOHNSON, JAEL, K. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 39 Christina and DJ K created a kid-friendly playlist for you with a variety of hip-hop performances. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Time for the final episode in our series all about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Last week, we learned about his famous opera, The Magic Flute, and today we’ll be learning about another of his well-loved and recognizable works, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.
In today’s episode you’ll learn what the following words mean…
- Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
- Tempo
- Serenade
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Busy Kids Do Music History | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 36: The Life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Busy Kids Do Piano
Episode 37: The Magic Flute | Busy Kids Do Piano
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik – Mozart – YouTube
Mozart Eine kleine Nachtmusik – Serenade in Gmajor, K-525, 2nd Movement II Romance Andante – YouTube
Mozart – Eine Kleine Nachtmusik – Menuetto (Allegretto) Movt.3 – Gewandhaus Quartett – YouTube
Mozart: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, IV. Rondo: Allegro | New Century Chamber Orchestra – YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 36 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances from Mozart’s Magic Flute. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Welcome to the second part of our series on one of the most famous composers of all time, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Last week, we learned a little bit about Mozart's life and legacy, and today we're going to take deeper look at one of his most famous works: The Magic Flute
In today's episode you'll learn about...
- One of the most famous opera arias of all-time
- What an overture is
- Which role many opera singers consider the most difficult to play
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Save $25 on your Daily Harvest box
Episode 5: The Opera
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
The Magic Flute: Overture - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - YouTube
Diana Damrau sings Mozart's "Queen of the Night" aria - YouTube
Papagena/Papageno Duet - Montserrat Caballé y Thomas Quasthoff - YouTube
The Magic Flute, Finale scene, W.A.Mozart (Score) - YouTube
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 36 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances from Mozart's Magic Flute. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is one of those composers whose name is immediately associated with greatness. A child prodigy and a prolific composer, he is considered one of the best of all times. This episode begins a 3-part series about Mozart, where we’ll learn a bit about his life and most famous works.
In today’s episode you’ll learn…
- How much Mozart had already accomplished in the musical world by the age of 12
- That Mozart wasn’t as wise about spending money as he was about composing music
- About his friendship with another great Classical composer
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Busy Kids Do Piano
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major
Marriage of Figaro, Overture
Violin Concerto No. 3 in G Major
Requiem
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 36 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with a variety of performances of Mozart’s music. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
A Christmas carol is a song or hymn about the theme of Christmas that is usually sung during the Christmas holiday season. There are so many beloved Christmas carols; I have my favorites, and I'm sure you do, too! Join me in today's episode to take a closer look at 3 of them: "Hark the Herald Angels Sing", "Go Tell it on the Mountain" and "Joy to the World".
You'll learn...
- How many different collaboraters through the decades contributed to the versions of the carols we now sing
- Which of these carols became a show-stopper for the concerts of the Fisk Jubilee Singers
- Which Christmas carol wasn't even written to be sung at Christmas in the first place
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Busy Kids Play Christmas Music
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Go Tell It on the Mountain (Lex Allen)
Go Tell It on the Mountain
Joy to the World
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 35 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with 11 performances of these 3 Christmas Carols. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
One week from now is the festival of Hanukkah, an eight-day Jewish celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Jewish families all over the world will celebrate with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games, gifts -- and music.
In today's episode, we are going to listen and learn about some of the songs that are part of the celebration of Hanukkah. You'll learn about...
- Some Hanukkah songs that have become popular as part of family celebrations
- The song which many consider to be the anthem of Hanukkah, sung at the conclusion of the candlelighting ceremony
- What a driedel is and why there are songs about it
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Save $25 on your first Daily Harvest box
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Jewish Lullabies (Shevet Achim Ensemble)
Hanukkah Blessings (Tracy Thomas)
Maoz Tzur (Tracy Thomas)
Hanukkah oh Hanukkah! (BimBam)
I Have A Little Dreidel (E's Jammy Jams)
Sevivon Sov Sov Sov (Trena Anderson)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 34 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with ten performances of Hanukkah songs. Check it out here.
The month of November is Native American Heritage Month. It’s a special time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, histories and contributions of Native people, and we’re doing that on the podcast today.
In this episode, we’ll be learning a little bit more about the role of music in modern Native American powwows. You’ll learn…
- Differences between the Northern style and Southern style of powwow music
- What an honor beat is
- The role of the Master of Ceremonies
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Episode 6: Instruments in Native American Music
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Stoney Creek Drum Circle
Poundmakers Tribute Song
One of the Smoothest Songs Around
Young Spirit Flag Song
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 33 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with eight performances of Native American powwow music — including a Grand Entry and a Flag Song! Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
Thirty-two episodes in, and I’m finally doing an episode on the instrument that I personally play and teach — the piano!
In this episode, you’ll learn…
- How the piano got its name
- How the piano produces a sound when a key is struck
- Why Franz Liszt was such an influential pianist and composer
Today you are going to learn about one of the most important musicians in Paris during the pre-revolutionary period. He was an expert swordsman an composer and the first noted classical composer of African ancestry. His life was fascinating, and I think you are going to enjoy learning more about him!
In this episode, you’ll learn…
- About the many unique achievements — musical and otherwise — of Saint-Georges
- What instruments make up a string quartet
- Why Saint-Georges’ music was removed from orchestra repertoires for 200 years
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Symphony No. 1 in D Major, Overture (Sainte-Georges)
Violin Concerto No. 1 in D Major (Sainte-Georges)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 31 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with nine performances connected to this episode’s theme. Check it out here.
We've reached the final episode in our series on composer J.S. Bach, and we're closing it with a look into some of my favorite pieces that Bach has written -- the six solo cello suites.
In this episode, you'll learn...
- The definition of a suite
- Why Bach's undertaking of these compositions was risky
- The function of a prelude in the structure of a suite
Links mentioned in this episode:
Busy Kids Do Music History Course
Episode 28: The Life of J.S. Bach
Episode 29: St. Matthew Passion
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Cello Suite No. 1 in G
Cello Suite No. 4 in E flat Major
Cello Suite No. 6 in D Major (Prelude)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 30 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with nine performances connected to this episode's theme. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
We’re continuing with our series on composer Johann Sebastian Bach! In our last episode, we learned about Bach’s life, family, style and career. Today we’re going to learn about one of his most famous compositions — St. Matthew Passion.
You’ll learn…
- What the term Passion refers to when we use it in music
- Definitions to fancy vocabulary words like recictatives and arias
- How this choral work led to the resurgence of Bach’s popularity
Links mentioned in this episode:
Episode 28: The Life of J.S. Bach
Episode 8: Handel’s Messiah
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
St. Matthew Passion — Opening Chorus
St. Matthew Passion – No. 18 (Evangelist, Jesus)
St. Matthew Passion – No. 39 (Aria)
St. Matthew Passion (Chorale Settings)
St. Matthew Passion (Final Chorus)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 29 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with ten performances connected to this episode’s theme. Check it out here.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!
If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!
A few months back, we did a series about Romantic composer Tchaikovsky here on the podcast. Today, we’re kicking off another composer series on a famous Baroque composer named Johann Sebastian Bach. In this episode, we’ll learn a little bit about his life, family and composing style.
You’ll learn…
- How Bach managed to land himself in jail
- Just how big Bach’s family was
- What a harpsichord is
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach)
Partita for Violin Solo No. 1 in B Minor (Bach)
Fugue in G Minor (Bach)
Minuets from Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach (Bach)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 28 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you with ten performances connected to this episode’s theme. Check it out here.
We're living during a global pandemic -- which can sometimes feel scary and frustrating. But we aren't the first people to live through a pandemic. Pandemics have happened before, and when they have, composers have created beautiful music in response to the challenging times. Today we're going to learn about some of those works of art.
You'll learn...
- What a cantata is and which prolific composer of cantatas wrote one about a pandemic in France
- How Stravinsky repurposed a famous piece to make a little extra money when times were tough during a global pandemic
- About a funny opera commissioned during the 1918 flu pandemic
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Cantata No. 25 (J.S. Bach)
Stella Celi (Cooke)
The Firebird Suite (Stravinsky)
Two Pieces from The Love for Three Oranges (Prokofiev)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 27 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with ten performances connected to this episode's theme. Check it out here.
In two previous episodes of Busy Kids Love Music, we learned about two ballets -- Nutcracker and Swan Lake. Today we're diving deeper into ballet itself to give you a better understanding of this type of art and musical form.
You'll learn...
- Where ballet got its start
- How different ballet looks and sounds from what we think of as "modern day" ballet
- How and why ballet costumes changed over time.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Busy Kids Do Piano Membership
Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode:
Pavane "Mille regretz"
Introduction from Cinderella (Prokofiev)
Ballet de Xerxes - Part II/Aradia Baroque Ensemble (Jean-Baptiste Lully)
Swan Lake Theme (Tchaikovsky)
The Firebird (Stravinsky)
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 25 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with ten performances connected to this episode's theme. Check it out here.
Many things inspire the music of composers. Sometimes it’s a person or a loved one. Other times it’s a fairy-tale or story.
Today we’re going to discuss some songs by classical composers that were inspired by animals.
In this episode, you’ll learn…
- What a duet is (and you’ll listen to a veryunusual one!)
- Why Handel’s organ concerto earned the nickname that it did
- How one composer’s most famous work was actually a source of worry and discomfort for him
Today we’re going to learn about the largest and lowest-pitched string instrument in the orchestra — the double bass. If you’re all about that bass, you don’t want to miss this episode!
In this episode, you’ll learn…
- Different ways of playing the bass to achieve different sounds
- How the bass is used in a variety of musical styles
- Why so many basses are needed in a symphony orchestra
We’re closing out the month of June — African American Music Appreciation Month — with an epsidoe all about one of my personal favorite composers, Scott Joplin.
In this episode, you’ll learn…
- Why Scott Joplin is considered the King of Ragtime
- What special award Jopin received after his death
- A little bit about Joplin’s opera, Treemonisha
Today's episode is the final installment in our little series about Tchaikovsky, and we're going to be digging into all things Swan Lake.
In this episode, you'll learn...
- Why dancers thought the music in the ballet score was undanceable
- A bit of the story that is told through the music and dance of Swan Lake
- How Tchaikovsky completely changed ballet scores
We're continuing on with our series about composer Tchaikovsky by digging into one of his famous pieces -- 1812 Overture. You may be familiar with this piece as it is sometimes used during fireworks displays or in film and television. Let's dive in!
In today's episode, you'll learn...
- What program music is
- Which wars are represented in this music
- Who really truly hated this piece (the answer might suprise you!)
Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky was a Romantic period composer from Russia who wrote some of the popular classical music of today. We'll take a closer look at his work in the next episodes, but today, we're getting to know a little bit about the man behind the music!
In today's episode, you'll learn...
- About Tchaikovky's tumultous marriage, which he called a "brief insanity"
- How a friendship with a wealthy widow led to an abundance of musical compositions
- What different styles and events influenced his compositions
Composers in the past and present have been and continue to be inspired by nature -- and especially the changes in nature that occur with the seasons. In celebration of spring, we are taking a closer look at some famous songs in classical music inspired by the season of spring.
In today's episode, you'll learn...
- About a composer's most well known work, inspired by the seasons
- How Beethoven's violin sonata was given a nickname after he died -- and why we think he'd be okay with the nickname
- How a dramatic lead up to marriage sparked a creative period for a prominent Romantic period composer
If you were to give a musical instrument an award for the "Best All-Around", that award would probably go to the trumpet. Whether it's carrying a strong, rhythmic melody in a jazz band or alerting soldiers to battle, the trumpet has a rich and varied past and present.
In today's episode, you'll learn...
-Why trumpeters were important in ancient battles
-How a musician produces sound from a trumpet
-What some of the earliest trumpets were made from
When you think about composers of the past, do you think about boring, stuffy men with white wigs and fancy clothes?
While this may be true of their appearances, composers of the past were anything but boring. Today we're going to learn about one such composer of the past, who loved to play jokes on people in real-life -- and in his music.
In this episode, you'll learn how Franz Joseph Haydn...
- Got himself kicked out of school for a wicked prank on a fellow choir member
- Used a bassoon to imitate the sound of...a fart (yes, I'm serious)
- Wrote an ending into a symphony to get across this message to a prince: let the musicians go home!
We’re continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month by learning about some SUPER important women in musical history, who helped put cracks in that glass ceiling with their talent and determination!
In this episode, you’ll learn…
- How the first female composer we have on record had quite the long list of interests and talents
- Which orchestra didn’t allow female musicians to be members until 1997
- About the first female conductor, who declined invitations from suitors in order to remain a musical conductor and teacher in a convent
March is Women’s History Month, and there are many female unsung composers throughout history who faced many obstacles in order to publish their work.
One such composer is Fanny Mendelssohn. You may be more familiar with her famous brother, Felix Mendelssohn, but in this episode, you’re going to learn why Fanny herself was under-recognized yet truly great.
You’ll learn…
- Which Mendelssohn sibling was the most talented pianist
- Why Fanny was discouraged from publishing her musical works
- How Felix embarrassed himself in front of Queen Victoria over one of Fanny’s compositions
Happy Black History Month! Throughout history, black folks have contributed much to the world of music. In today's episode, we are spotlighting the history of African-American spirituals and gospel music.
You'll learn...
- Which gospel song was a favorite of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- The historical importance of call and response spirituals in worship
- How the Fisk Jubilee Singers brought African-American spirituals to a worldwide audience
It's just a few days before Valentine's Day, so in today's podcast, we're talking about famous love songs in classical music. Don't worry -- I promise not to get too mushy on you!
In this episode you'll learn about...
- Which composer was unlucky in love, though he did write a famous piano piece for one of two possible loves (who both turned his marriage proposals down)
- A song that inspired one of Elvis Presley's own love songs
- A ballet that almost rewrote the ending to one of Shakespeare's most famous plays
Head over to my website to listen to more famous classical love songs!
While Haydn may be considered the Father of the Symphony, Beethoven's symphonies are perhaps the most well-known -- and groundbreaking -- symphonies of all time.
In today's episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we are going to take a look at each of these symphonies and learn more about the famous and flawed composer himself as we do.
Today's episode of Busy Kids Love Music explores the symphony, which is a word that you might hear a lot but aren't exactly sure what it means. Not only will I tell you what it means, but we'll also learn...
- How many musicians play in a symphony orchestra
- Who is considered the Father of the Symphony
- All about the symphonic form
Today's episode is going to prepare you for Episode 12, where we'll be listening to and discussing Beethoven's nine symphonies.
The saxophone is an instrument with a lot of personality. Perhaps because it produces a sound that is shockingly similar to the human voice or maybe because it has a wide range of dynamics, the saxophone gives way to emotional expression that not all instruments are able to create. Whether it's a classical piece by a French composer or a jazz improvisation by a virtuoso musician, this instruments style is as versatile as its sound.
In today's episode, we're going to look at the saxophone's role throughout music history, learn about the different components of the sax and listen to some examples of the more unusual types of saxophone.
The Nutcracker is perhaps the most well-known of ballets, and chances are, you're hearing some of this famous music quite often during this holiday season!
Today's episode of Busy Kids Love Music is a story-telling episode. I am going to tell you the story of The Nutcracker as it is portrayed in the ballet. As I tell it to you, you'll have a chance to listen to excerpts from Tchaikovsky's famous Nutcracker suite.
For many people, attending a performance of George Frideric Handel's Messiah is as much of an annual Christmas tradition as decorating the tree and opening presents. So what better way to kick off the month of December than with a dive into this famous oratorio?
In today's episode, we'll learn a little bit about Handel -- the famous composer of Messiah -- and define some big fancy words like oratorio and libretto as we listen to a few selections from one of the most famous pieces of all-time.
There's something about the cello. Whether I'm rocking out to a mash-up of pop tunes played by piano/cello duo The Piano Guys or listening in awe of Sheku Kanneh-Mason's emotional performance of Elgar's cello concerto, I truly love listening to the cello play just about anything.
In today's episode, we'll learn a bit about the anatomy of the cello, what it means to play a solo, and listen to two very famous pieces of cello music. Be sure to also download this episode's listening calendar for a chance to hear cello tunes from all sorts of different genres.
On August 3, 1990, President H. W. Bush declared the month of November National American Indian Heritage Month. (We refer to it now as Native American Heritage Month.) While certainly any month is the perfect month to learn about and celebrate Native peoples, November is a time especially encouraged to do so.
With that in mind, we're exploring some of the instruments often used and treasured in indigenous music. From turtle shelled rattles to eagle bone whistles, we're going to hear some incredible Native American music in today's episode. On a personal note, this has been my favorite episode of the podcast thus far to research and create. I can't wait for you to learn new things about Native American music!
To get access to the full show notes and all the resources mentioned, visit busykidsdopiano.com/podcast/6
The opera is one of those things that people seem to really love...or really not love.
There are so many different styles of opera music, so many composers who have arranged opera music, and so many skilled vocalists who have performed opera music. All this to say, even if you might think you DON'T like opera music, there's a variety of opera music out there. Maybe -- just maybe -- you'll find an opera song or singer that you enjoy.
Or maybe you'll at least grow appreciative of the skill that goes into creating and performing opera music.
With that said, I urge you to keep an open mind as we dive into this week's podcast episode on opera music.
Do you ever listen to a piece of music that gives you the shivers?
Maybe it's something about the musical instruments that are used, or maybe you associate a certain song with a spooky scene in a movie.
In today's episode, we're going to explore three famous classical music songs that are...well...spooky.
One of the oldest instruments in the orchestra is the flute. Rich and melodic in sound, the flute is used in special and unique ways as part of the orchestra. In this episode, we'll listen to some examples of how the flute is used in a couple of famous musical compositions. We'll also learn a bit about the origins and construction of today's modern day flute. Let's dive in!
Perhaps around Halloween time, you'll start to hear a familiar tune. It starts out softly, with the bassoon playing low, short notes. Gradually it gets louder and faster and louder and faster until there is a big CRASH of instruments at the end!
This popular tune is "In the Hall of the Mountain King", the most famous piece written by Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg.
In today's episode, we'll learn more about this composer and also listen to some of his well-known compositions -- including "In the Hall of the Mountain King", of course!
If I asked you to tell me what rhythm is, would you be able to define it?
Sometimes there are words that we hear a lot, but we aren't exactly sure what they mean.
In this episode, I'll teach you what, exactly, rhythm is. We'll practice clapping a rhythm, and listen to lots of examples of rhythms from famous works of music.