February 6, 2011 12:22 PM
Teaching children about the orchestra, classical music
This is a great piece to show your children. Even if you have not grown up as a fan of classical music (I sure didn't!), I can tell you it's very rewarding to learn alongside your children.
Just think how much richer their lives will be - and how much less vulnerable they will be to trashy music when they are teens - if they are filled with an appreciation of good music. I have grown-up kids, so I know this works.
Here's a great video to watch with them: Rimsky Korsakov's Flight of the Bumblebee.
This video is superb because it will give children clear close-ups of each of the instrument groups.
Watch it again, asking your child first if he could "see" the bumblebee - isn't it amazing how the composer paints a picture with music?
You can expand your children's interest with books, CDs and DVDs on instruments of the orchestra. Here are some Amazon links, but check your local library, Paperback Swap, and Netflix:
Also, check your local symphony orchestra to see if they have family or children's programs on their schedule. Loudoun has one coming up February 19 - you don't want to miss this opportunity.
Remember, that the impressions we give children before they are six are the ones that will be part of them forever. Think how children who grow up in bilingual households grow up with two languages. You can plant the seeds of a broad musical appreciation and give them the roots that will activate their curiosity as they grow older.
I also found that by filling my kids' lives with a wide range of good music, they had a level of discernment when they were teens that made them uninterested in trashy music. That's not to say that they weren't interested in contemporary artists like Cold Play, Snow Patrol, Regina Spektor, the Avett Brothers - my kids have introduced me to so much great music :) - and indie artists pre-discovery.
Give your children the language of classical music!
Posted in Homeschooling, Montessori, Music, Teens and Tweens, Toddlers | Permalink
Comments
Great article! I have always exposed my son to many different types of music. I forced none on him but rather had it around. He is now 12 and likes many different types of music.
Posted by: Gary Benson | February 6, 2011 10:32 PM
This book on amazon is about classical music, and a family of mice who live in an orchestra bass:
http://www.amazon.com/Neko-Twiggets-Donna-Hoke/dp/0557807395
Posted by: Dana Kelly | August 8, 2011 9:49 AM
