Until my time on the TOS Crew this year, I had never heard of Maestro Classics. I'm so glad to have found them now! They offer CD's of classic children's stories set to music performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Classic stories plus beautiful classical music equals an enriching multi-sensory educational experience!
What we received: The Story of Swan Lake CD
Price: $16.98 for a CD or $9.98 for a downloadable mp3
I've enjoyed Tchaikovsky's ballets since I was 12 years old so I was very glad to receive the Swan Lake CD. I've hoped to pass on my love for classical music to my girls. Listening to classical music is one thing, but really appreciating it and understanding it doesn't always come easily. Maestro Classics makes the music very accessible to children specifically in the 6-12 year old range. Any age can enjoy them, though! Lil Sis (4) and Baby Girl (2) both listened very attentively to the music and story. I was actually surprised by their level of attention. They enjoyed Yadu's voice (the narrator) very much. Big Sis (10) was already familiar with the Swan Lake story, but she enjoyed listening as well. Since we have done a composer study in the past, she liked the facts about Tchaikovsky which are given after the story.
Included with the CD is a booklet with further details about the Swan Lake story; the conductor Stephen Simon and executive producer of the series Bonnie Ward Simon; guitars; a maze; a crossword puzzle; and song lyrics for the Swan Lake song on the CD. There is a track entitled Speed Metal Swan, which is an electric guitar version of the Swan Lake theme. It was interesting, to say the least, and reminded me of Mannheim Steamroller's take on classic Christmas songs.
We first listened to the CD at home while making homemade play-dough. The girls' hands were busy with mixing the ingredients and then playing with the dough while they listened. I think it helped them to really absorb the music and story since it was a sensory activity. This would also make great "traveling music" while riding in the car.
Beyond hearing a story and good music, Maestro Classics offers companion lessons on a variety of subjects to go along with their CD's specifically for homeschoolers. Take a look at the website to find ideas to incorporate these CD's into math, history, geography, and other lessons. I love this feature! In fact, I would love to own the whole collection of Maestro Classics!
Don't forget to visit the Crew blog to read more reviews!
Disclaimer: I received a Maestro Classics CD at no cost for the purpose of review. No other compensation was given for my honest opinion.
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