Busy Kids Love Music

 "April showers bring May flowers!" This common saying reminds us that rainy days lead to beautiful spring blooms. In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re exploring three classical pieces that capture the sound and feeling of rain. From gentle drizzles to powerful storms, these composers found incredible ways to bring rain to life through music. 🎵 Music Featured in This Episode: 1️⃣ "Raindrop" Prelude – Frédéric Chopin Listen for the repeating note that sounds like steady raindrops. Did you know Chopin may have been inspired by a real rainstorm while staying at an old monastery? 2️⃣ "Gardens in the Rain" – Claude Debussy A fast, playful piece that feels like a sudden spring rainstorm. Debussy even weaves in snippets of old French nursery rhymes—can you hear them? 3️⃣ "Cloudburst" – Eric Whitacre A musical journey through a thunderstorm, featuring voices whispering, fingers snapping, and hands clapping to create the sound of rain! 🌟 Listen & Learn: Want to hear the full performances of these pieces? I've put together a special YouTube playlist so you can enjoy them all week long! Find the link here:  https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfKdW5enb0-VYOFZa_JGa5Vw6-m8FnwtW&si=7MPTAA8OYH0lxXKY Join me again in two weeks for another musical adventure! Until then, listen closely to the world around you—you never know what might inspire your next favorite melody. 

Welcome back, music enthusiasts and families! Today, we dive into the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev's timeless masterpiece, "Peter and the Wolf." In our latest episode of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, we delve deep into the whimsical tale of young Peter and his encounters with various animals in the Russian forest. Join me as we uncover the magic behind this beloved composition and discover its profound impact on generations of listeners. **The Story Unfolds:** "Peter and the Wolf" is not just a musical composition; it's a vivid fairy tale brought to life through Prokofiev's masterful orchestration. Follow along as Peter ventures into the forest, defying his grandfather's warnings, and crosses paths with a bird, a duck, a cat, and ultimately, a fearsome wolf. Each character in the story is intricately woven into the fabric of the music, creating a symphonic narrative that sparks the imagination and stirs the soul. **Educational Purpose and Premier Success:** Commissioned by the Central Children's Theatre in Moscow, "Peter and the Wolf" serves as an ingenious educational tool to introduce children to the instruments of the orchestra. Through the use of leitmotifs, Prokofiev assigns specific musical themes to each character, allowing young listeners to identify and connect with the sounds of the symphony. The premiere of "Peter and the Wolf" in 1936, conducted by Prokofiev himself with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, was met with resounding success, captivating audiences of all ages with its enchanting storytelling. **Musical Examples and Narrative Depth:** In our podcast episode, we explore excerpts from "Peter and the Wolf," highlighting the musical representation of characters such as the bird (flute) and the cat (clarinet). Additionally, we delve into the innovative narration that adds depth and engagement to the musical experience, guiding listeners through Peter's thrilling adventures in the forest. **Adaptations and Legacy:** Since its premiere, "Peter and the Wolf" has inspired numerous adaptations, including ballet productions and animated short films. From the iconic 1946 Walt Disney adaptation to modern interpretations, the story of Peter's bravery and the power of music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. I invite you to explore these adaptations and discover the enduring legacy of Prokofiev's masterpiece. Don't miss out on future episodes of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, where we continue to explore the wonders of classical music and inspire the next generation of music lovers. Subscribe today on your preferred podcast platform and don't miss each episode's show notes for links to referenced content and resources. 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! 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!

In Episode #87 of Busy Kids Love Music, we embark on a captivating three-episode journey into the life, works, and enduring legacy of one of the most under-appreciated yet greatest composers — Franz Schubert. As we unravel the pages of Schubert's musical story, you'll discover the brilliance of a composer whose name might not be as widely recognized as Mozart or Beethoven but is equally, if not more, deserving of our admiration. **Schubert's Short Yet Prolific Life:** Franz Schubert's life was tragically brief but remarkably prolific. The last years of his life saw an outpouring of masterpieces, including the awe-inspiring Fantasy in F Minor, a testament to his unparalleled talent. Despite his short-lived career, Schubert left an indelible mark on the world of music. **Musical Expressiveness Beyond His Years:** Schubert's compositions bridge the gap between the Classical and Romantic periods, infusing emotions and expressiveness that foreshadow the evolving landscape of music. While his recognition during his lifetime fell short of his aspirations, posthumously, he earned the admiration of fellow composers like Mendelssohn and Brahms, securing his place among the greatest in Western music history. **The Legacy of Schubert's Genius:** Even in the wake of Schubert's untimely death at the age of 31, his impact on music endured. The Romantic period, with its emphasis on emotional depth, found a precursor in Schubert's compositions. Today, we recognize him as a trailblazer, whose works continue to captivate audiences and inspire musicians across the globe. **Dive into Schubert's Musical World:** As we delve into Schubert's life and works, I invite you to explore the rich artistry of his compositions. Episode #87 is the first installment in our three-part series dedicated to Franz Schubert, offering a glimpse into the genius of a composer who, despite facing challenges during his lifetime, now stands as a luminary figure in classical music. **Tune In and Rediscover Schubert:** Don't miss the chance to rediscover the magic of Franz Schubert's music in Episode #87 of Busy Kids Love Music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music lover or a curious newcomer, this series promises to unveil the depth and brilliance of a composer who deserves a spotlight of his own. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Enrollment to Busy Kids Do Piano Enrollment to Busy Moms Do Piano Music Heard in this Episode: Franz Schubert - Piano Sonata D. 959 Franz Schubert - Fantasy for Violin and Piano Franz Schubert - Symphony No. 1 Schubert - Ave Maria Schubert: Fantasie in F minor - Lucas & Arthur Jussen Music Listening Schedule for Episode 87 I’ve created a YouTube playlist for you that includes some performances of music from today's episode as well as a few additional pieces from Franz Schubert. 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! 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!    

Think you can solve a musical mystery? In this extra-fun episode of Busy Kids Love Music, you’ll become a musical detective as we play a guessing game with four mystery instrument sounds. I’ll play you a short clip from a famous piece of music—your job is to figure out “What Was That Sound?” Once you make your guess, I’ll reveal the answer and share some fascinating facts about the instrument, including: The fastest-fingered member of the string family The tallest instrument in the orchestra The woodwind with a delightfully sneaky tone The percussion star that keeps an entire piece marching along To make it even more fun, I’ve created a free printable worksheet that you can use to write down your guesses. This is a perfect at-home, in-the-car, or classroom activity to sharpen your listening skills—and you can even quiz your family and friends afterward. Plus, I’ve put together a playlist of the full-length versions of all the music featured in today’s game, so you can enjoy each piece from start to finish. Listen now and put your musical ears to the test! 📄 Free Worksheet: Download here 🎶 Featured Playlist: Listen here

It’s time for a spooky (but silly!) musical adventure as we wrap up our 3-part series on the brilliant French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. In today’s episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re exploring one of Saint-Saëns’ most imaginative and well-known pieces: Danse Macabre — or “Dance of Death.” But don’t worry — while the title sounds a bit eerie, this piece is more like a playful Halloween dance party than a fright fest. With dancing skeletons, chiming midnight bells, and a dramatic story told entirely through music, Danse Macabre is the perfect mix of spooky and fun. Inside this episode, your child will: Learn the meaning behind the title Danse Macabre Discover how Saint-Saëns uses musical instruments like the xylophone, violin, and oboe to paint a vivid scene Hear how a spooky-sounding interval called a tritone helps set the mood Use their imagination to picture the skeleton dance party in full swing Listen for musical clues like midnight chimes and a rooster crowing at dawn Don’t forget to download your FREE Audio Treasure Hunt! I’ve hidden six questions throughout the episode for your child to uncover as they listen. 👉 Download it here Mentioned in this episode: Danse Macabre by Camille Saint-Saëns Instruments to listen for: xylophone (rattling bones!), harp (midnight chimes), violin (creepy tritone), and oboe (the rooster at dawn) Previous episodes in our Saint-Saëns series: → Episode 156: Meet the Composer – Camille Saint-Saëns → Episode 157: Carnival of the Animals Whether you’re listening around Halloween or just in the mood for something dramatic and fun, this episode will show how music can spark imagination and tell a story — even without any words.

Get ready to explore a musical zoo like no other! In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re diving into one of Camille Saint-Saëns’ most imaginative and beloved works—Carnival of the Animals. This whimsical suite features 14 short movements, each representing a different animal or creature, from regal lions and squawking roosters to gliding swans and even... piano students!  You’ll hear musical excerpts that bring each animal to life and learn: Why Saint-Saëns wrote Carnival of the Animals in secret What instrument represents the elephant Why The Swan was the only movement published during his lifetime How this suite became one of his most popular works after his death PLUS: It’s an Audio Treasure Hunt episode! Hidden throughout today’s episode are six musical clues. Download your free Treasure Hunt printable and see if you can answer them all as you listen. Want to explore even more? Sign up for my FREE 5-Day Online Music Camp inspired by Carnival of the Animals! Each day features music exploration, fun piano activities, and creative ways to bring the animals to life. Perfect for music-loving kids of all ages! 🔗 Link to join in the show notes. Next Week: We wrap up our Saint-Saëns series with a spine-tingling piece—Danse Macabre—just in time for spooky season. Don’t miss it! Resources Mentioned: Download the Audio Treasure Hunt Printable Join the FREE Carnival of the Animals Online Music Camp Listen to Carnival of the Animals in its entirety here Busy Kids Love Music is created by Carly Seifert, piano teacher and founder of Busy Kids Do Piano, helping families explore the joy of music from their own homes. 📌 Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode — and keep your ears open for more musical adventures!

We’re kicking off a brand-new composer series—and this one’s all about the brilliant French composer Camille Saint-Saëns! 🎼 In this first episode of our 3-part series, your child will discover: What made Saint-Saëns a child prodigy  His early musical education and incredible memory How travel and science inspired his compositions  The tragedies and triumphs that shaped his life Why his music stood apart from others in his time Plus! This episode includes a FREE Audio Treasure Hunt to make listening extra interactive and fun. Can your child catch how old Saint-Saëns was at his first public concert? Or what inspired his “Egyptian” piano concerto? 🎧 Featured Music Includes: Organ Symphony Piano Concerto No. 5 “The Egyptian” Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor Don’t forget to download your free Audio Treasure Hunt worksheet and explore my curated playlist of Camille Saint-Saëns’ most beloved compositions. 🎹 Enrollment Now Open: If you’ve been thinking about starting piano lessons at home, now’s the perfect time! Public enrollment for Busy Kids Do Piano is open through August 18th. Learn more and sign up here. Don’t miss Episode 157, where we’ll take a closer listen to The Carnival of the Animals—a delightful musical zoo full of lions, kangaroos, and the famous swan. Until next time, keep listening and keep making music! 

Welcome to the final stop on our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series! In this episode, we journey to the breathtaking island of Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, where folk music and dance are central to cultural life. From the energetic rhythms of the ʻoteʻa dance to the booming beats of the toʻere and pahu drums, Tahitian music is filled with movement and joy. We’ll explore the traditional instruments, musical styles, and even group choral chants like himene tarava, which blend Polynesian harmonies with European influences. You’ll also: Hear samples of traditional Tahitian drumming and singing Learn how music and dance are celebrated at the Heiva Festival Discover how Tahitian children carry on musical traditions today Explore how modern musicians are blending traditional instruments with new sounds Don’t forget! Download your Tahiti Passport Stamp to complete your musical journey around the world. Check out this playlist on YouTube to view incredible Tahitian performances. 🎹 Plus, exciting news! Public enrollment for Busy Kids Do Piano and Busy Moms Do Piano opens August 4th! Learn more about Busy Kids here and Busy Moms here. Thanks for joining us on this global musical adventure—see you in two weeks for more musical exploration!

In today’s episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we head to the vibrant country of Colombia—a place full of colorful landscapes, rich traditions, and joyful rhythms! Part of our special summer series Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music, this musical journey introduces your child to the diverse folk styles that make Colombian music so special. From the African-influenced drums of the coastal regions to the haunting melodies of Indigenous flutes and the lively accordion tunes of vallenato, we’ll explore how Colombia’s music reflects its unique blend of cultures: Indigenous, African, and Spanish. 🎶 Highlights from this episode include: A deep dive into cumbia, one of Colombia’s most iconic musical styles. Listening to the gaita—a traditional Indigenous flute—and how it’s used in folk ensembles. Learning about the tambora, a drum essential to Afro-Colombian rhythms and celebrations. Discovering the accordion’s role in vallenato and its European roots. Exploring how Colombian folk music is still a vibrant part of everyday life—from school songs to street parades! 📌 Episode Resources: 🎟 Download your free Colombia Passport Stamp here 🎵 Curated YouTube Playlist of Colombian Folk Music featuring cumbia, vallenato, and more 🗺️ Previous Stops on Our Around the World Series: Folk Music of Ethiopia Folk Music of Ukraine Folk Music of South Korea 📍Next stop: Our final destination of the summer series—don’t miss it in two weeks! This episode will transport your family to Colombia through the power of music. Don’t forget to grab your musical passport stamp and explore even more music with my bonus playlist! 🎧 Subscribe to Busy Kids Love Music on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. 💬 Let’s Connect: Have a question or want to share your child’s musical discoveries? Tag me on Instagram @busymomsdopiano or send us message to carly@busymomsdopiano.com!

Welcome back to Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! In today’s episode, we journey to the eastern side of Asia to explore the rich folk music traditions of South Korea. From heartfelt folk songs to energetic drumming ensembles, Korean traditional music—known as gugak—is a vibrant part of the country’s culture and history. Join me as we explore: 🎶 Minyo – Traditional Korean folk songs passed down through generations 🎤 Arirang – One of Korea’s most beloved and historic songs 🎭 Pansori – Dramatic musical storytelling with a single singer and drummer 🥁 Samulnori – A thrilling percussion style performed with four instruments 🎼 Traditional Korean instruments including: The janggu (hourglass drum) The gayageum (12-string zither) The haegeum (two-string fiddle) Along the way, we’ll learn how these beautiful sounds continue to influence modern music—from classrooms to K-pop stages. 👉 Don’t forget to: Download your South Korea passport stamp Check out the YouTube playlist featuring instruments and performances mentioned in today’s episode Revisit any of the previous episodes in this global series  

In this episode of our Around the World summer series, we’re traveling to Ukraine, a country with a deep love of singing, a powerful history, and some truly fascinating folk instruments! Join me as we: Discover the meaning of folk music and why it matters.  Learn about Ukraine’s journey to independence and how music has helped preserve its culture. Explore the beautiful three-part harmonies often sung a cappella by Ukrainian choirs. Hear traditional instruments like: Bandura – a harp-like instrument with up to 60 strings. Trembita – one of the world’s longest instruments used in mountain villages. Tsymbaly – a hammered dulcimer that creates rhythmic dance music. Understand how folk music varies from region to region in Ukraine. You’ll hear snippets of folk songs throughout the episode and learn how modern Ukrainian artists are keeping these traditions alive today. 📍 Download your Ukraine Passport Stamp Add to your musical passport collection by downloading this week’s stamp here. 🎧 Bonus Playlist Want to keep listening? Check out the curated playlist of Ukrainian folk music linked on YouTube by clicking here. Subscribe & Follow: Never miss an episode! Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow me on Instagram @busymomsdopiano for updates, behind-the-scenes, and extra resources. Busy Kids Love Music is the podcast that helps kids explore composers, musical styles, instruments, and cultures from around the world—one note at a time.    

  Welcome to a brand new season of our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! Every 2 weeks this summer, we’re visiting a different country to explore its folk music traditions—and today, we’re heading to the Horn of Africa to discover the rich and unique sounds of Ethiopia! In this episode, you’ll learn: What makes Ethiopian music sound so different from Western music The special musical scales called qignit (including the Tizita scale) The fascinating traditional instruments of Ethiopia: the krar, masenqo, and washint How music is woven into celebrations, faith, and storytelling The unique Ethiopian dance called eskista, full of fast footwork and expressive shoulder movements Plus, we’ll hear musical clips throughout the episode to bring these traditions to life! 🧳 Don’t forget your passport stamp! Download your printable Ethiopia stamp to add to your musical passport as we travel the world this summer. You’ll find it linked here. ▶️ YouTube Playlist Be sure to check out the curated playlist I’ve included so you can see these amazing instruments and dances in action—especially the mesmerizing eskista dance! Thanks for joining me on this exciting musical adventure. See you in two weeks as we journey to another corner of the globe for more incredible folk music traditions.

As we approach Memorial Day in the United States, this episode honors one of the most poignant and powerful pieces of American music — Taps. Although this bugle call is only 24 notes long, it carries deep meaning and emotion, used to honor those who have served and sacrificed in the military. In this episode, you and your young listeners will: Discover the origins of Taps during the Civil War. Learn about the bugle and how it was used to signal soldiers throughout the day. Hear different performances of Taps, including from Arlington National Cemetery. Reflect on how a simple melody can express gratitude, peace, and remembrance without a single word. 🎧 Musical excerpts featured: Taps – USMC Drum & Bugle Corps Reveille – West Point Band Taps – Live recordings from Arlington National Cemetery Semper Fidelis – “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band 📝 Mentioned in this episode: Visit this link for a short playlist of a few full-length performances of Taps 🎶 What’s Next: Join me in two weeks as we launch our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series! We’ll explore folk music traditions from across the globe — and your child can collect printable passport stamps along the way!

Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! In today’s episode, we’re celebrating the blossoming beauty of spring with classical music inspired by flowers! This episode is the perfect follow-up to our April Showers adventure, and it’s all about music that captures the feeling of blooming gardens, delicate petals, and peaceful springtime scenes. 🌸 Here’s what we’re listening to today: Waltz of the Flowers by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – A graceful dance from The Nutcracker ballet that brings a garden of twirling flowers to life. Voices of Spring (Frühlingsstimmen) by Johann Strauss II – A joyful waltz celebrating the arrival of spring, with sparkling melodies and fluttering flutes. (Psst… you’ll recognize the opening from the podcast theme!) Flower Duet from Lakmé by Léo Delibes – A stunning vocal duet that transports us to a peaceful riverside garden, blooming with flowers and calm. 🌷 Imagination Prompts: As you listen, picture yourself surrounded by colorful blossoms, dancing petals, and chirping birds. What does the music feel like? What colors or movements do you imagine? 🎨 Extras for Today’s Episode: 🎵 YouTube Playlist featuring full-length performances of each piece 🖍️ Printable Flower Coloring Page to enjoy while listening 📣 Reminder: This episode airs during Busy Kids Do Piano’s spring public enrollment period! Learn more about how to join before May 15th by visiting busykidsdopiano.com/membership or busymomsdopiano.com/membership. Thanks for joining me for this beautiful musical bouquet! I’ll see you next time with a brand-new episode.

Happy Earth Day! Today, we’re celebrating our beautiful planet the best way we know how—through music! 🎶 For centuries, composers have found inspiration in nature, and in this episode, we’re exploring three stunning pieces that bring the sounds of the Earth to life. 🎼 Featured Music: Beethoven’s "Pastoral Symphony" – A joyful musical journey through the countryside, filled with singing birds, flowing streams, and even a thunderstorm! Smetana’s "The Moldau" – A breathtaking piece that follows the journey of a mighty river as it winds through forests, villages, and castles. John Luther Adams' "Become Ocean" – A modern, atmospheric work that captures the vastness and movement of the deep blue sea. Your Turn! After listening, step outside and create your own "Earth Symphony" using the sounds of nature around you. Can you hum like the wind, tap like raindrops, or play an instrument to mimic the outdoors? More Music: Want to listen to the full recordings of the pieces from this episode? Find them in our special playlist by clicking here. 🌍 Let’s celebrate Earth Day by listening, creating, and caring for our planet! 💚 📆 Next Episode: I’ll be back in two weeks with more musical fun—see you then!

Hi friends! Have you ever wondered what makes a sonata different from other pieces of music? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of sonatas—one of the most important forms in classical music! You’ll learn: ✅ What the word "sonata" means and where it comes from ✅ How composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn used a special structure called sonata form ✅ How to listen for the exposition, development, and recapitulation in famous sonatas 🎧 We’ll explore examples from Mozart’s “Easy Sonata,” Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata,” and more! Listen closely and follow along as we break down the form of these timeless masterpieces. 🎵 Download the Free "Sonata Roadmap" Worksheet! I’ve created a fun printable worksheet to help you map out sonata form while you listen. Grab your free download by clicking here. 🎼 Listen Along with Our Sonata Playlist! Want to explore more beautiful sonatas? I’ve put together a special Sonata Playlist so you can hear this form in action. Click here to listen to the playlist. 💡 Challenge: As you listen to a sonata, try to identify when the exposition ends, when the development begins, and when the recapitulation brings everything back together. It’s like following a musical treasure map! 🗺️🎶 Thanks for tuning in to Busy Kids Love Music! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss our next episode. Until next time, keep listening and keep learning!

Happy (almost) St. Patrick’s Day! 🍀 In this episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we’re traveling back in time to explore the life and music of one of Ireland’s most beloved composers—Turlough O’Carolan. Known for blending traditional Irish melodies with European Baroque influences, O’Carolan created music that is still performed and loved today. 🎵 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Who was Turlough O’Carolan, and how did he become a traveling harpist? ✅ What are planxties, and why did O’Carolan compose them? ✅ How did he blend Irish folk music with Baroque elements from composers like Bach and Vivaldi? ✅ Listen to some of his most famous works, including: Carolan’s Concerto  Planxty Irwin  Sí Beag, Sí Mhór  🎧 Listen & Learn More: Curated Playlist – Enjoy a hand-picked selection of O’Carolan’s most famous compositions, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations! Find it here! Thank you for tuning in to celebrate Irish music with me!  Have a wonderful St. Patrick’s Day, and don’t forget to enjoy some traditional Irish tunes. See you in two weeks for another brand-new episode! Until then—keep listening and learning!

In this special Black History Month episode of Busy Kids Love Music, we explore the life and legacy of the extraordinary musician and composer, Blind Tom Wiggins. Born into slavery in 1849, Blind Tom overcame immense challenges, including blindness and exploitation, to become one of the most celebrated musical prodigies of the 19th century. Join me as we delve into his remarkable story, his unique musical talent, and his enduring contributions to American music. Learn about his compositions, including his dramatic retelling of a Civil War battle in "The Battle of Manassas," and discover how his life continues to spark conversations about genius, resilience, and the history of Black music. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The early life and extraordinary talent of Blind Tom Wiggins. How his musical abilities were both celebrated and exploited during his lifetime. The role of African American spirituals and folk music in shaping his compositions. Speculation on whether Blind Tom may have been neurodivergent. How his legacy is remembered and honored today. Links and Resources: 🎶 Curated Playlist of Blind Tom Wiggins' Compositions – Listen to his stunning works and experience his genius firsthand. Learn more about Blind Tom Wiggins’ life through this resource from the National Museum of African American History and Culture and this documentary from American Masters PBS episode Thank You for Listening! Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Busy Kids Love Music. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss our next episode in two weeks! You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts.

Hi friends, and welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! This week, we conclude our three-part series on the brilliant composer George Gershwin with a look at his opera masterpiece, Porgy and Bess. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Background on Porgy and Bess: Learn how Gershwin, his brother Ira, and DuBose Heyward collaborated to create this groundbreaking "folk opera" that premiered in 1935. The Story: Explore the opera’s plot, centered on the struggles and resilience of a close-knit African American community in Catfish Row, Charleston. Unforgettable Music: Enjoy excerpts from iconic pieces like: “Summertime” “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin’” “Bess, You Is My Woman Now” Cultural Impact: Discover how Gershwin’s decision to cast African American performers in the leading roles broke barriers while also sparking debate. Modern Reflections: Understand how productions today balance honoring Gershwin’s work with addressing cultural sensitivities. Additional Resources: 🎶 YouTube Playlist: Enjoy performances of Porgy and Bess classics, including standalone pieces and opera excerpts. Find it here. 🎧 Missed the First Two Episodes of our Gershwin series? Catch up below: Episode 141: Gershwin’s Life and Musical Journey Episode 142: Rhapsody in Blue Thank You for Listening! Join me again in two weeks for another exciting dive into the world of music. Until then, keep exploring, discovering, and enjoying the sounds that inspire you.

Welcome to Busy Kids Love Music! In today’s episode, we continue our series on the remarkable George Gershwin, focusing on one of his most famous works, Rhapsody in Blue. Discover the story behind this iconic piece, learn what makes it unique, and hear why it’s considered a groundbreaking moment in American music history. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Inspiration: Learn how a train ride and a tight deadline led to the creation of Rhapsody in Blue. The Title: Explore the meaning behind the title and how the piece captures the spirit of America. The Music: Dive into Gershwin’s innovative blend of jazz and classical styles, featuring instruments like the clarinet, saxophone, and piano. The Premiere: Hear how the piece’s 1924 debut wowed audiences and redefined jazz as a serious art form. Why It’s Famous: Discover why Rhapsody in Blue is still celebrated as one of the greatest American compositions. 🎧 Featured Musical Moments: The iconic clarinet glissando opening. Excerpts showcasing jazz rhythms and sweeping melodies. Links & Resources: 🎹 Listen to Rhapsody in Blue in its entirety here. 🎹 Listen to Episode 141: The Life of George Gershwin here 🎶 Explore more podcast episodes and composer activities at Busy Kids Love Music. Coming Up Next: In the final episode of our George Gershwin series, we’ll explore his operatic masterpiece, Porgy and Bess, including the iconic song "Summertime." Stay Connected: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the next one! Share the love of music by telling a friend about the podcast. 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app!