 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
A Child's Celebration of Classical Music
- By Various Artists
- Genre: Children's Music
Common Sense Media says
Talented celebs promote classics for kids.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this album is supposed to celebrate classical music with children -- but three of the seven tracks aren't really classical music, and one rendition of a true classical composition is quirky at best. Also, the liner notes don't provide information about the composers, the instruments, or the history of the compositions.
What's the story?
A CHILD'S CELEBRATION OF CLASSICAL MUSIC hosts an impressive medley of celebrity orchestras and artists, playing ageless classical compositions alongside more obscure and contemporary selections. The Boston Pops Orchestra performs a dramatic piece from Edward Grieg's Peer Gynt. Carol Channing narrates a 15-minute story ("Gerald McBoing Boing") about a boy whose voice produces only the sounds of musical instruments. Bobby McFerrin performs an entire piece with his versatile voice, and the Symfunny Orchestra offers an unconventional rendition of Handel's "Water Music."
Is it any good?
The CD brings together talented, well-known artists to perform classic works. For example, a brief piano solo from Sleeping Beauty, composed by Maurice Ravel (famous for Bolero), is preceded by Meryl Streep's skillful narration. Prokofiev's "Peter and the Wolf" is performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra and narrated by David Bowie. And Danny Kaye's enchanting presentation of "Tubby the Tuba" quickly attracted the attention of one 4-year-old listener.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about what they know or would like to know about the composers and compositions -- and maybe take a trip to the library (okay, perhaps the Internet) to find out. They can also try to identify the instruments featured.
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
| Artist: | Various Artists |
| Release date: | July 6, 1999 |
| Label: | Music for Little People |
| Genre: | Children's Music |
| Parental advisory: | No |
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