Classical Children

The other day I had the good fortune of accompanying the Lower Elementary class on a trip to the Brooklyn Philharmonic for a performance, which included works from Beethoven and Haydn.  The 40-minute performance was a perfect introduction to classical music for these six through nine-year old students.  I could not help watching them as the music played; they were mesmerized.

I've always been in love with classical music that paints pictures through music.  Vivaldi's "Four Seasons," Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture," and Bizet's "Carmen Overture" help any listener - young and old - understand  that music is vivid and picturesque.  My favorite is Modesto Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" for painting images with music.  First read what Mussorgsky accomplished with his music then listen to the composition . . . and do it with your child.