Busy Kids Love Music

Latest Episodes:

The Banjo Jun 04, 2024

Show notes

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!

Prokofiev's Cinderella May 21, 2024

Show notes

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!

Peter and the Wolf May 07, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back, friends! Today we're heading into the Russian forest with Sergei Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf — one of those pieces that's been introducing kids to the orchestra for almost 90 years, and honestly, it still holds up.

The story

Peter sneaks out past the garden gate against his grandfather's warnings (kids never listen to their grandfathers, do they?) and runs into a bird, a duck, a cat, and eventually a very hungry wolf. What makes this piece so brilliant is that Prokofiev didn't just tell the story with words — he gave every character their own instrument and musical theme. The bird flits around on flute. The duck waddles along on oboe. The cat creeps in on clarinet. You hear who's on stage before anyone says a word.

Why it was written

Prokofiev wrote this for the Central Children's Theatre in Moscow, and his goal was pretty simple: teach kids what the instruments of the orchestra sound like, using a story they'd actually want to listen to. It premiered in 1936 with Prokofiev himself conducting the Moscow Philharmonic, and it was a hit right out of the gate. Nearly a century later, it's still one of the most-performed pieces written for children — which tells you he was onto something.

What we cover in this episode

We listen to how each character comes to life through their instrument (the bird's flute runs are some of my favorite moments in the whole piece), and we talk about how the narration works alongside the music instead of just sitting on top of it. It's a great lesson in how a composer can "say" something without a single word.

Where the story went from there

Peter and the Wolf has been adapted more times than I can count — ballets, animated shorts, even Disney took a crack at it back in 1946. If your family wants to explore some of those adaptations together, I've linked a few of my favorites below.

Grab this episode's listening guide below, and if you're enjoying the podcast, I'd love it if you'd rate and review — it helps other music-loving families find us. Thanks for being here.

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!

Sergei Prokofiev Apr 23, 2024

Show notes

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!

Solar Eclipse Part 2 - Songs Inspired by the Moon Apr 09, 2024

Show notes

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 depth that has captivated listeners for centuries.

🌙 **"Song to the Moon" from Rusalka by Antonín Dvořák:** Join me as we delve into the world of opera with Dvořák's mesmerizing aria, "Song to the Moon". Experience the longing and yearning of Rusalka as she sings to the moon, seeking solace and guidance in her quest for love.

🌙 **Clair de Lune by Debussy:** Next, we immerse ourselves in the dreamy soundscape of Debussy's "Clair de Lune". Lose yourself in the shimmering moonlight as Debussy paints a musical portrait of nocturnal beauty.

🌙 **"Lake in the Moonlight" from Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky:** Finally, we conclude our lunar journey with Tchaikovsky's ethereal "Lake in the Moonlight" from his beloved ballet Swan Lake. Lose yourself in the magical atmosphere as Odette dances under the moon's gentle glow.

Join me as we explore these enchanting pieces and discover the timeless allure of music inspired by the moon. Tune in to Episode 120 of Busy Kids Love Music and let the fun begin!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 119: Songs Inspired by the Sun

Episode 55: Clair de Lune

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Beethoven - Moonlight Sonata (FULL)

Renee Fleming,@Dvorak - Song to the moon - Rusalka

Clair de Lune (Extended)

Tchaikovsky - Lake in the Moonlight

Playlist for Episode 120

I've put together a curated playlist of the 4 pieces we learned about in today's episode so that you can hear them in their entirety.

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!

Solar Eclipse Part 1: Songs Inspired by the Sun Mar 26, 2024

Show notes

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. Across centuries, composers have drawn inspiration from the majestic glow and celestial dance of our nearest star, crafting masterpieces that capture its essence in musical form.

Join me as we delve into three extraordinary compositions: Richard Strauss's awe-inspiring Alpine Symphony, Joseph Haydn's enchanting 'Sun' quartets from his Op. 20, and Carl Nielsen's evocative Helios Overture. Each piece offers a unique perspective on the sun's power, beauty, and mystique, inviting us to bask in its radiance through the language of music.

At Busy Kids Love Music, we believe in making learning a joyous adventure for the whole family. Join me as we journey through the celestial symphony of the cosmos, where music and education unite to inspire curiosity and ignite imaginations!

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Eine Alpensinfonie (An Alpine Symphony) , Op. 64: Nacht (Night) - Sonnenaufgang (Sunrise)

J. Haydn — String Quartet No. 4, Op. 20 / Meccore String Quartet

Carl Nielsen - Helios Overture, Op. 17

Playlist for Episode 119

I've put together a curated playlist of the 3 pieces we learned about in today's episode. It makes great background music for science homework if your student is learning more about the upcoming solar eclipse!

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!

Fanny Crosby Mar 12, 2024

Show notes

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 Crosby, born in 1820, lost her sight as an infant due to a medical mishap. Despite this early adversity, she went on to become one of the most productive hymn writers in history, penning over 8,000 hymns during her lifetime. Her timeless compositions, including beloved classics like "Blessed Assurance," "To God Be the Glory," and "Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior," continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, transcending generations and denominations.

Throughout Episode 118, listeners will be treated to an immersive exploration of Fanny Crosby's life and music. From her humble beginnings in rural New York to her enduring legacy as a trailblazing female composer, each segment offers valuable insights into her remarkable journey.

Moreover, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite. Fanny Crosby's hymns, with their profound lyrics and timeless melodies, have provided solace and strength to countless individuals throughout history, serving as a source of comfort and hope in times of joy and sorrow alike.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's essential to reflect on the countless contributions of women like Fanny Crosby, whose talents and tenacity have left an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond. Through Episode 118 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, listeners of all ages are invited to join in this celebration, honoring the life, legacy, and enduring spirit of an influential female composer.

Tune in to Episode 118 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast and embark on a musical journey through the life and works of Fanny Crosby—a fitting tribute to Women's History Month and a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift us all.

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Blessed Assurance by Fanny Crosby (Piano Instrumental)

Fanny Crosby Hymns on Harp

Praise The Lord (To God Be The Glory) (Hymns with lyrics)

Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior - Jonathan Anderson Violin Hymns

Music Listening Schedule for Episode 118

I've put together a curated playlist of some of the pieces we highlighted in today's episode as well as a few of the many hymn arrangements of Fanny Crosby's collection.

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!

Georg Philipp Telemann Feb 27, 2024

Show notes

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 of musical history, was not just a composer; he was a virtuoso of his time. Born in 1681, Telemann's legacy extends far beyond his era, leaving an indelible mark on the Baroque period with his innovative compositions and unparalleled creativity.

As we explore this episode, we'll journey through the tapestry of Telemann's life, discovering the influences that shaped his music and the groundbreaking compositions that defined an era. From his early days in Magdeburg to his later years in Hamburg, Telemann's musical odyssey is a testament to the transformative power of art.

Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of Baroque music or a newcomer eager to explore the classics, Episode 117 promises to be a captivating journey into the heart of Telemann's genius. Join me as we unravel the layers of his compositions, appreciating the artistry that continues to resonate through the centuries.

Gather your young music enthusiasts and let the melodies of Georg Philipp Telemann transport you to a bygone era of musical splendor. Episode 117 is not just a podcast episode; it's an invitation to discover, appreciate, and fall in love with the Baroque brilliance of one of history's musical giants.

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Telemann: Viola Concerto in G major, Rose Armbrust Griffin

Telemann: Trumpet Concertos Vol.1

Telemann: Complete Tafelmusik

Telemann - Wassermusik suites & concertos

Music Listening Schedule for Episode 117

I've put together a curated playlist of some of the pieces we highlighted in today's episode as well as a few other selections of Georg Philipp Telemann. You'll have the chance to see what choreographed ballet performances look like to some of the music we learned about in the podcast when you view the videos in this playlist.

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!

Nina Simone Feb 13, 2024

Show notes

There are some artists you listen to, and then there are some artists you feel. Nina Simone is the second kind.

In honor of Black History Month, I wanted to spend this episode on her — because honestly, one episode barely feels like enough. Nina Simone wasn't just a singer. She was a classically trained pianist, a storyteller, and someone who used her music as a form of protest long before it was safe or popular to do so. Her sound pulled from jazz, blues, classical, and gospel all at once, and somehow it never felt like a blend — it felt like something entirely her own.

What You'll Hear

We'll start where her story starts: North Carolina, where a young Eunice Kathleen Waymon showed early signs of being a musical prodigy at the piano. From there, we'll trace how she became "the High Priestess of Soul," and sit with some of her most iconic songs — "Feeling Good," "I Put a Spell on You," and "To Be Young, Gifted and Black" — and what made each of them land the way they did.

We'll also talk about the parts of her story that go beyond the music: her role in the civil rights movement, and the courage it took to use her platform the way she did, at a time when that came with real cost.

This isn't just a music history episode for me. It's a chance to sit with someone whose talent and courage still echo through so much of the music we love today. Whether you already adore Nina Simone or you're meeting her for the first time through this episode, I think you're in for something that stays with you.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Wizard of Oz Camp

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Nina Simone - I put a spell on you

Nina Simone "Love Me Or Leave Me" on The Ed Sullivan Show

Nina Simone: Mississippi Goddam

Feeling Good - Nina Simone

Young, gifted and black - Lyrics - Nina Simone

Music Listening Schedule for Episode 116

A curated playlist of songs by Nina Simone can be found here. It contains performance of Nina Simone performing on shows such as Sesame Street and The Ed Sullivan Show. Enjoy!

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!

Fanfare for the Common Man Jan 30, 2024

Show notes

Today marks the grand finale of our 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 Common Man."

Composed in 1942, right in the heart of World War II, Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man" is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people. This fanfare serves as a musical salute to the ordinary men and women who, during a tumultuous time, were contributing to the war effort in various ways. It's a celebration of the strength and resilience found in everyday citizens, echoing the sentiment that in the face of adversity, the common person rises to extraordinary heights.

In today's episode, we'll explore the historical context surrounding the creation of this powerful composition. We'll delve into the wartime atmosphere of 1940s America, understanding how Copland's fanfare became not just a musical piece but a symbol of unity and patriotism.

We'll also uncover the diverse instances where "Fanfare for the Common Man" has been used throughout history, resonating in moments of triumph, resilience, and shared humanity. From its inclusion in major events to its presence in popular culture, the fanfare continues to inspire and uplift.

But that's not all—we'll also draw connections between Copland's masterpiece and the iconic Superman Theme. Discover how composer John Williams found inspiration in the opening notes of "Fanfare for the Common Man" and used its grandeur to set the stage for the legendary superhero.

Join me as we bring this composer series to a triumphant close!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 113: The Life of Aaron Copland

Episode 114: 3 Iconic Ballets by Aaron Copland

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Aaron Copland – Fanfare For The Common Man

Superman: Main Theme

Music Listening Schedule for Episode 114

I've put together a curated playlist of some of the pieces we highlighted in today's episode. You'll have the chance to see what choreographed ballet performances look like to some of the music we learned about in the podcast when you view the videos in this playlist.

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!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected