Music Appreciation
15. Mole Music
Introductory/Parents
By David McPhail. A spiritual story about the far-reaching effects of private actions. Mole has always led a simple life, but lately he feels something is missing. When he first hears someone playing a violin, Mole realizes that he longs to make beautiful music, too. Through practice and patience, Mole learns to play. And even though he plays alone, in the privacy of his underground home, his music has an effect on others that is more magical than Mole will ever know.
22. Songs of the Church with Stories of Their Writers
Introductory/Parents
By Lady Ellen M'Dougall. "Let us tell the children stories of the brave men and women who, in the midst of war and persecution, of suffering and isolation, wrote the hymns that have helped others to face the hardships of life." There are many stories in here that can be adapted for children.
31. Symphony Stories
Introductory/Parents
These are program notes from a series of symphonies performed for children by the North Carolina Symphony. You'll find stories and interesting tidbits of info to help your children enjoy the pieces. There are a lot of choices here that can be used for mini-music appreciation classes.
79. The Spiritual Lives of the Great Composers
Advanced
By Patrick Kavanaugh. Handel, Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Brahms, Dvorak, Stravinsky, Messiaen . . . Men of genius as different as their music - but all inspired by deep spiritual convictions. Peter Kavanaugh uncovers the spirituality of twenty of music's timeless giants, revealing legacies of the soul as diverse as the masterpieces they created. Warmly written, beautifully illustrated, and complete with listening recommendations for each composer, Spiritual Lives of the Great Composers is a fascinating look at the inner flame that lit the works of these masters.