Books can be a wonderful way to introduce children to the world of music or supplement their musical instruction. As a teacher, I have gone to many used book stores searching for the best children’s books on music. With time I’ve been able to compile a great library of books appropriate for a range of ages and covering a variety of musical topics, which students (or their siblings) can then borrow to read at home.
There are many wonderful books where authors and illustrators have collaborated together to tell stories that are easily digestible by young readers and at the same time enrich their knowledge of the musical world. Whether it’s a book that introduces the instruments and sounds of the orchestra, the life of a composer, or the concept of chamber groups, reading about these concepts, and listening to supplemental recordings that often come with the books, can enhance a child’s knowledge and understanding of music.
Libraries and used book stores are a great way to find books on music and avoid spending a lot of money. Below are just a few of the many wonderful books published with attractive illustrations and engaging story-telling that I’ve found over the years. I have not provided links to these books, but hope that you might be able to find them at your own local library or bookstore.
Before There Was Mozart: The Story of Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-George
By Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome
While almost everyone has heard the story of Mozart, Joseph Boulogne was a contemporary and amazing prodigy in his own right. Boulogne, the son of a white plantation owner and Black slave, showed an extraordinary musical talent from a young age. His father took him and his mother to Paris to help further his musical career and allow him more opportunities as a professional violinist. This book provides an easy read to introduce children to the life of Joseph Boulogne, including the struggles he faced due to the color of his skin. There have been quite a few recordings made of Boulogne’s own compositions in recent years and one can find many articles and in depth information to learn even more about his life.
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought)
Written and illustrated by Kathleen Krull
Suitable for older children, Kathleen Krull provides brief and entertaining biographies of key figures of classical music. Krull paints vibrant portraits, both as an illustrator, and in words, to bring these incredible musicians to life. Unusual facts help to draw in the young reader:
Johannes Brahms did things other people might have wished they could do. He fell asleep once when composer Franz Liszt was playing piano for him. He dressed strictly for comfort, and he left his clothes on the floor when he went to bed. He liked merry-go-rounds and circus sideshows. Not until he was almost thirty did he stop playing with tin soldiers.
Do Re Mi: If You Can Read Music, Thank Guido d’Arezzo
Written and illustrated by Susan L. Roth
Just where did musical notation come from? Before it was notated down on paper, music was shared aurally, learned by ear and passed down from generation to generation. A written musical language needed to be invented. Susan Roth’s book introduces the readers to Guido d’Arezzo who is credited with figuring out a way to create written notation that could be understood by other musicians. His ideas, invented 1000 years ago, have since evolved into the notation that we are used to seeing today. There is a short glossary of musical terms included in the back of the book.
The Composer is Dead
Written by Lemony Snicket
Music by Nathaniel Stookey
Illustrated by Carson Ellis
This silly mystery story takes readers on a journey through orchestral instruments, providing clever descriptions of each section. Depending on the age and musical experience of the child, it may simply be a way to get to know the names of all the instruments and some composers, or a way to learn about the role of each instrument in the orchestra.
“We were doing bird imitations,” said the Flutes, the shiniest and highest pitched of the woodwinds. “It seems like that’s all we every do. Whenever the orchestra needs a bird, there we are.”
“You can trust me,” the Oboe said. “Everyone trusts me. After all, I tune up the entire orchestra by playing an A.”
Some of the jokes and implications may go over a child’s head but a musical parent will likely be in the know! This book also comes with a narrated CD with musical accompaniment.
Listen to the Birds: An Introduction to Classical Music
Written by Ana Gerhard
Illustrated by Cecilia Varela
Composers have often sought to depict the natural world within music; the storms of summer, the pastoral qualities of springtime, or the sounds of animals. Listen to the Birds takes readers through classical works incorporating bird calls, starting as early as the Renaissance period (Clément Janequin) through 20th century composers like Olivier Messiaen and Einojuhani Rautavaara.