classical music 101: Classical music for children... and adults! (scale challenge bonus point opportunity)

When learning an instrument, it is important to listen to various pieces composed for the instrument. It is also helpful to listen to a variety of different music in general. Listening to music (or noticing it... as music is played everywhere these days) regularly is a good habit to form as a musician. Being aware of stylistic conventions in different genres of music is a crucial skill for the modern violinist who is asked to play in many different styles. As a violin teacher, I build a foundation of technique in my students based on classical violin playing traditions. Like many teachers, I believe that a good foundation in Western classical techniques can allow a violinist to play not only classical music, but allow them to transfer their technique to other styles. It is important to be familiar with the music which these techniques were developed for.

Today, I am offering a bonus point opportunity for my students for their summer scale challenge, but anyone can participate in this listening exercise by commenting on this post. The assignment is to listen to two pieces from Classic FM's list of "10 Best Pieces of Classical Music for Kids" and jot down some thoughts about them. Classic FM deems this list as good starting point for listening to classical music for children, but these pieces are also a great starting point for the adult unfamiliar with popular classical pieces. 

Here are some questions to ponder for each selection:

1. Do you know when/where this piece comes from?
2. What mood/feeling does this piece convey?
3. What instruments do you hear? (try your best to identify different sounds if you can't identify the instrument by name)
4. Do you like this piece?
5. Which piece was your favorite? Why?

Ms. Holly's Students: you may respond to these questions as a comment on this post, via email, or hand me a paper in person (or put in my box at Evola) by August 18th to earn 5 bonus points for the Summer Scale Challenge. Follow the link above and watch two videos from the list. Violin is featured/present in most of these pieces. You do not have to choose pieces that have violin in them for this challenge.

What is your favorite piece? Comment below and let me know!