Busy Kids Love Music

Latest Episodes:

Songs of Thanksgiving Nov 22, 2022

Show notes

As we head into the season of gratitude, Busy Kids Love Music is celebrating Thanksgiving with a special musical episode! In Episode 84, we'll explore beautiful works of classical music that capture the heart and spirit of thankfulness.

A Musical Celebration of Gratitude

Thanksgiving looks a little different all around the world, but at its heart, it's about pausing to give thanks for our blessings and the people we love. In this episode, we'll listen to three pieces of music that express gratitude in unique and moving ways.

1. Simple Gifts

We'll start with "Simple Gifts," the beloved Shaker hymn that reminds us to find joy in life's simple moments. Its familiar melody and gentle message make it a perfect piece for this time of year.

2. Shepherd's Song of Thanksgiving

Next, we'll journey into the countryside with the "Shepherd's Song of Thanksgiving" from Beethoven's Pastoral Symphony. You'll hear how the composer used music to express peace, gratitude, and the beauty of nature after a storm.

3. Nun Danket Alle Gott (Now Thank We All Our God)

We'll finish with "Now Thank We All Our God," a hymn that has been sung for generations as an expression of deep thankfulness and faith. It's a timeless reminder of how music can unite us in praise.

A Family Tradition in Sound

Episode 84 is all about slowing down and soaking in the warmth of gratitude—through the language of music. Whether you're listening while baking pies or driving to visit family, I hope this episode fills your home with harmony and thankfulness.

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.

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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!

The Clarinet Nov 08, 2022

Show notes

Greetings, music enthusiasts and families! Today, we're embarking on a delightful journey into the world of a fascinating woodwind instrument—the clarinet. In Episode #83 of Busy Kids Love Music, I'm here to share the magic, versatility, and unique sounds that make the clarinet a standout in the musical realm.

**A Musical Chameleon:** Known as one of the most expressive and versatile instruments in the woodwind family, the clarinet has a remarkable ability to imitate the human voice. Composers throughout history have harnessed its emotive power to convey a wide range of feelings

**Peter and the Wolf: A Clarinet Tale:** Our journey through the world of the clarinet takes an exciting turn with a nod to 20th-century composer Sergei Prokofiev and his iconic work, "Peter and the Wolf." In this enchanting piece, the clarinet steps into the spotlight, embodying the mischievous character of the cat. As you listen, we invite families to ponder the choice of the clarinet for this playful feline role. What unique qualities does the clarinet bring to the portrayal of the cat in Prokofiev's musical narrative?

**Geared for Families, Loved by All:** Busy Kids Love Music is designed to be an engaging and educational experience for the entire family. In Episode #83, I aim to captivate the curiosity of young minds while providing insights that resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned music enthusiast or new to the wonders of the clarinet, there's something for everyone in this exploration.

**Unlocking the World of the Clarinet:** The clarinet holds a special place in the heart of many musical genres, from classical to contemporary. Its distinctive tones and wide-ranging capabilities make it an instrument that can enchant and inspire. As we unlock the secrets of the clarinet in this episode, families are invited to immerse themselves in the rich sounds that define its character.

**Join Me on this Musical Adventure:** Whether you're a parent, a child, or somewhere in between, the clarinet awaits your discovery in Episode #83. Tune in to Busy Kids Love Music and let the clarinet's playful melodies transport you to a world where music comes to life. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the enchanting universe of the clarinet—it's a musical adventure for the whole family!

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 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!

Duke Ellington Oct 25, 2022

Show notes

Get ready to swing! In Episode #82 of Busy Kids Love Music, we're exploring the unforgettable sound and legacy of one of America's greatest composers—Duke Ellington. Known for his innovative style and bold creativity, Ellington changed the course of jazz forever.

From Edward to Duke: Born Edward Kennedy Ellington, this musical legend got his nickname thanks to his polished manners and sharp sense of style—traits his mother encouraged from a young age. But it wasn't long before "Duke" would become known for something even more impressive: his incredible gift for music.

Early Notes: Duke began piano lessons at age seven, and that first introduction to the instrument opened the door to a lifetime of musical exploration. As a young man, he was already composing, performing, and shaping a sound that would eventually define an era.

The Sound of Innovation: Ellington wasn't just writing music—he was reinventing it. With his big band at the Cotton Club and beyond, he experimented with harmonies, rhythms, and instrumental textures in ways no one had done before. He wasn't afraid to try something new, and his work helped elevate jazz to new heights.

A Musical Legacy: In this episode, we'll highlight just a few of the hundreds of compositions Ellington wrote throughout his career. From upbeat swing tunes to moody, elegant pieces, Duke Ellington's music shows us the power of imagination, hard work, and fearless creativity.

Tune in to Episode #82 and celebrate the incredible life and music of Duke Ellington—a true jazz icon!

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 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!

The Contemporary Era Oct 11, 2022

Show notes

Hello, fellow music explorers! Join me for a remarkable finale as Busy Kids Love Music wraps up its enlightening four-part series on the major periods of music history. In Episode #81, we step into the present, exploring the diverse and expansive landscape of the Contemporary Era.

**The Contemporary Kaleidoscope:** Our musical journey has led us to the era we currently inhabit—the Contemporary Era of music. In this episode, prepare to be immersed in a vast array of styles, ideas, and innovations, as composers from our time express their creativity through a kaleidoscope of musical genres.

**A Symphony of "-Isms":** As we navigate the turn of the century, you'll discover that the Contemporary Era boasts a rich tapestry of musical styles, each marked by its unique "-ism." From impressionism to serialism, modernism to minimalism, the music of our time embraces diversity and eclecticism. Sub-genres like jazz, ragtime, and blues add additional layers to the multifaceted soundscapes of contemporary compositions.

**Technology's Influence:** Advancements in technology have played a pivotal role in shaping the Contemporary Era. As our world becomes more connected, composers can easily share their creations with a global audience. The result is a musical landscape that reflects the globalized and interconnected nature of our contemporary world.

**Inspiration from the Past:** Even as we explore new frontiers, the Contemporary Era is marked by a continued reverence for the past. Composers draw inspiration from the classical periods, with compositions reflecting the styles of Baroque or Romantic masters. Operas and symphonies, traditional forms from earlier eras, are still alive and well, demonstrating the enduring influence of classical music.

**A Musical Tapestry of Today:** Episode #81 invites you to unravel the intricacies of the music that defines our present. From the experimental to the classical, jazz to modernism, the Contemporary Era is a celebration of the myriad ways composers express their artistic visions in the here and now.

**Embrace the Contemporary Symphony:** Tune in, absorb, and let the Contemporary Era serenade you with its diversity and innovation. As we conclude this enlightening series, remember that the beauty of classical music lies in its ability to transcend time, connecting us with the past while echoing the harmonies of the present.

Don't miss the grand finale—Episode #81 of Busy Kids Love Music, where the Contemporary Era becomes a vibrant musical canvas.

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 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!

The Romantic Era Sep 27, 2022

Show notes

Join me for another enchanting episode of Busy Kids Love Music as we continue our exploration of the four major periods of Western classical music. Today's spotlight is on the Romantic Era, a captivating period from 1830 to 1900 that ushered in a wave of expressive and dramatic compositions.

**A Symphony of Emotions:** As we delve into the Romantic Era, the music takes on a new dimension, filled with intensity and passion. Episode #80 unravels the threads of this evocative period, where composers embraced a more emotive and personal approach, giving rise to some of the most beautiful and stirring compositions in classical music history.

**Beethoven's Prelude:** The Romantic Era finds its roots in the innovations of the legendary Ludwig van Beethoven. Towards the end of the classical period, Beethoven began to pave the way for Romanticism by pushing the boundaries of classical music. His sonatas and symphonies, such as Symphony No. 6, ventured beyond the strict rules, introducing a sense of freedom and creativity. In this episode, we'll explore how Beethoven's countryside-inspired compositions set the stage for the passionate music of the Romantic Era.

**Virtuoso Pianists and Expressive Melodies:** As a pianist, I can't help but express my fondness for the Romantic Era—a time when virtuoso pianists took center stage, composing and performing works that showcased the expressive capabilities of the piano. The music of this era reflects a deep connection to personal emotions, making each piece a profound and emotive experience.

**Unlocking the Secrets of Romanticism:** Discover the key elements that define Romanticism in music, from its departure from classical rigidity to its embrace of rich harmonies, lush melodies, and imaginative storytelling. The Romantic Era invites listeners to embark on a journey through compositions that evoke a wide range of emotions, from the tender to the tumultuous.

**Stay Tuned for the Final Chapter:** Our exploration of Western classical music will soon culminate in the final episode of our series, where we'll unravel the intricacies of the Contemporary Era. Don't miss the opportunity to deepen your understanding and appreciation of classical music with Busy Kids Love Music.

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 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!

The Classical Era Sep 13, 2022

Show notes

As our musical journey through the epochs of Western classical music continues, we find ourselves immersed in the refined elegance of the Classical Era. In Episode #79 of Busy Kids Love Music, we unravel the secrets of this period that defined an age and shaped the works of renowned composers like Mozart and Beethoven.

**Demystifying the Terminology:** Before we dive into the symphonies and sonatas of the Classical Era, let's clear up a common misconception. While we often use the term 'classical music' broadly, the Classical Era (with a big C!) specifically spans the years 1750 to 1820. This era is the second chapter in our exploration of the four major periods of Western classical music.

**Melodic Mastery:** What sets the Classical Era apart? Tune in to discover the distinct characteristics that make this period a melodious marvel. Unlike the intricate melodies of the Baroque era, the Classical period introduces a noticeable shift—music becomes more accessible, and you can easily find yourself humming along to the enchanting tunes.

**Harmony and Structure:** Classical compositions are marked by a sense of balance, clarity, and structural elegance. Discover the harmonious interplay of instruments and the meticulous construction of symphonies that define the Classical Era's unique musical language.

**Tune in, Hum Along:** Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or just beginning your musical exploration, Episode #79 promises to be a delightful journey through the refined sounds of the Classical Era. Get ready to appreciate the melodic mastery that has left an indelible mark on the world of classical music.

**Stay Tuned for More Musical Chronicles:** As we venture through the rich tapestry of classical music, our series will soon explore the Romantic and Contemporary periods, offering a comprehensive understanding of the diverse landscape of Western classical music.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your musical knowledge and appreciation. Tune in to Busy Kids Love Music and let the Classical Era enchant your ears and enrich your understanding of the timeless world of classical music.

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.

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!

The Baroque Era Aug 30, 2022

Show notes

Greetings, music enthusiasts! Get ready for a captivating journey through the annals of Western classical music as we embark on a four-part series, starting with the grandeur and opulence of the Baroque Period. In Episode #78 of Busy Kids Love Music, we dive headfirst into the ornate world of Baroque music, unraveling the secrets that make this era truly distinctive.

**Baroque Extravaganza:** If you have a penchant for the extravagant and fancy, then the Baroque Period is your musical haven. Join me as we explore the richness of Baroque compositions, a style that embodies grandeur, complexity, and a touch of theatricality.

**Unveiling Baroque Maestros:** Chances are you've already encountered the enchanting melodies of the Baroque era without even realizing it. In this episode, I'll shine a spotlight on the masterful composers who crafted the musical tapestry of this period, leaving an indelible mark on classical music history.

**Decoding the Baroque Essence:** What exactly defines a piece of music as "Baroque"? From intricate ornamentation to bold contrasts and elaborate structures, I unravel the key characteristics that make Baroque music a unique and timeless art form.

**A Musical Time Machine:** Transport yourself back in time as we take a musical stroll through the Baroque period. Feel the pulse of the harpsichord, marvel at the virtuosity of the violin, and let the intricate interplay of voices transport you to a world of musical splendor.

**Join Me on this Musical Expedition:** Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this four-part series promises to be an enlightening voyage through the different epochs of Western classical music. Don't miss out on the Baroque extravaganza that awaits in Episode #78!

**Stay Tuned for More Musical Time Travel:** As we unravel the secrets of the Baroque era, keep an ear out for upcoming episodes exploring the Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary periods. Each episode is a gateway to a different musical landscape, offering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse world of classical music.

Tune in, turn up the volume, and let Baroque brilliance surround you in this exciting episode of Busy Kids Love Music. Let the journey through time and music begin!

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.

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!

Folk Music of Newfoundland & Labrador Aug 16, 2022

Show notes

Hello, fellow musical globetrotters! Can you believe it? We've reached the final destination of our extraordinary journey – Newfoundland and Labrador. In this concluding episode of our "Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music" summer series, we dive into the rich artistry of folk music that echoes through the charming landscapes of this Canadian province.

**Collect Your Final Stamp:** As we bid adieu to our global exploration, make sure to grab the last stamp for your musical passport. Download your passport and this episode's stamp, sealing your participation in this melodic adventure that has taken us to the far corners of the world.

**Episode #77: A Musical Tapestry from Newfoundland and Labrador:** Our musical sojourn brings us to the eastern shores of Canada, where the folk music of Newfoundland and Labrador is deeply intertwined with the region's Celtic roots. Drawing influences from Brittany, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, the earliest settlers found solace in music – from church hymns and fiddling to ballads and tunes brought over from Europe.

**Preserving Stories Through Song:** Folk music in this maritime province serves as a living testament to the stories, tragedies, and unique experiences of its communities. Passed down orally from generation to generation, the warmth and welcoming spirit of the people are reflected in the tunes that echo through the picturesque landscapes.

**A Multifaceted Musical Legacy:** From the 19th-century church choirs to military and civilian bands, Newfoundland and Labrador embraced diverse musical influences. The Moravian missionaries introduced Protestant spiritual music to Labrador, where choirs and brass bands flourished. However, it's important to note the unfortunate erasure of the original music of the indigenous Inuit tribes during this process.

**Reflecting on Our Global Journey:** As we conclude this musical odyssey, take a moment to reflect on the incredible diversity of folk music we've explored together. From the rhythmic beats of Indonesia to the soulful melodies of Italy, each episode has been a harmonious celebration of the world's musical tapestry.

**Thank You for the Musical Memories:** A heartfelt thank you to our young listeners, parents, and music enthusiasts for joining me on this unforgettable journey. I hope this series has ignited a lifelong love for global music exploration and appreciation.

**Until Our Next Musical Adventure:** Although our summer series may be coming to a close, the world of music is boundless. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes from Busy Kids Love Music, where every musical note is a gateway to discovery and joy.

Safe travels, musical explorers!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Print the Passport

Print Newfoundland & Labrador Stamp

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.

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!

Folk Music of Indonesia Aug 02, 2022

Show notes

Greetings, music explorers! I'm delighted to welcome you back for the penultimate stop on our summer series, "Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music." In each bi-weekly episode, we've been jetting off to a new destination, immersing ourselves in the diverse and vibrant world of folk music.

**Collect Stamps for Your Passport:** As we approach the finale of this musical journey, don't forget to collect stamps for your passport. This interactive experience allows you to build a global repertoire, adding unique stamps from each episode. Download your passport and grab this episode's stamp, featuring the captivating sounds of Indonesia.

**Episode #76: The Folk Music of Indonesia:** In our latest episode, our musical odyssey transports us to Indonesia, a country with a rich cultural tapestry and a musical legacy that resonates across the islands. Discover the mesmerizing sounds of Gamelan, an ensemble of traditional Indonesian instruments, and listen to the beats of Dangdut and Qasidah, two genres that have left an indelible mark on the country's musical landscape.

**Musical Diversity Rooted in Culture:** Indonesia's rich cultural heritage has given rise to a diverse range of musical styles. Gamelan, with its unique ensemble of percussion instruments, provides an exciting journey into the heart of Indonesian tradition. Dangdut and Qasidah, with their rhythmic beats and soulful melodies, showcase the modern influences that have shaped Indonesia's contemporary folk music scene.

**Begin Your Indonesian Musical Voyage:** Ready to embark on a musical voyage to Indonesia? Download your passport and episode stamp and let the enchanting sounds of this diverse archipelago transport you to a world of cultural richness and artistic diversity. Whether you're a young music enthusiast or a parent seeking educational and entertaining content, Episode #76 promises an engaging blend of learning and joy.

Join me as we approach the culmination of our global exploration of folk music. Happy listening!

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 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!

Folk Music of Italy Jul 19, 2022

Show notes

Our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music, makes its third stop this week — and we're landing in Italy.

Italy is one of those countries that most people associate with music almost instinctively. Opera, of course, comes to mind first — but Italian folk music runs much deeper than that, and older too. In this episode, we dig into the roots of Italy's musical tradition, exploring how its position at the crossroads of Europe and the Mediterranean left its sound shaped by an unusually wide range of cultures: Celtic, Slavic, Arabic, Spanish, and more. Each of those influences left something behind, and what emerged over centuries is a folk tradition full of variety and regional personality.

One of the more interesting threads we pull on in this episode is opera itself. We typically think of opera as high art — the kind of thing performed in grand venues for dressed-up audiences — but it actually fits the definition of folk music in some important ways, and that makes it worth looking at through a different lens.

Collect your passport stamp!

If you've been following along with the series, don't forget to download this episode's Italy stamp for your passport. And if you haven't grabbed the passport yet, you can download it here — it's a fun way to keep track of all the musical destinations we're visiting this summer.

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 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!

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