Busy Kids Love Music

Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music! In this second episode of our three-part series on the incredible composer Gustav Holst, we're diving into one of his most famous and beloved works: The Planets. Whether you're a budding astronomer, a lover of mythology, or a homeschooling student learning about the solar system, this episode offers a fun and fascinating musical journey through the stars.

In The Planets, Holst composed a suite of seven movements, each named after a different planet in our solar system and its corresponding astrological character. Holst’s fascination with astrology -- a belief some held that the positions and movements of stars and planets might influence lives on Earth—played a significant role in the creation of this work.

We'll explore how Holst used music to bring these celestial bodies to life, portraying the intense and dramatic nature of Mars, the serene beauty of Venus, the playful speed of Mercury, the jubilant energy of Jupiter, the solemn wisdom of Saturn, the mysterious magic of Uranus, and the ethereal mysticism of Neptune.

This episode is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and homeschoolers alike, as it connects the worlds of music, mythology, and the cosmos. Plus, it's a fantastic way to experience how music can convey the character and personality of each planet.

If you missed the first episode in this series, where we discussed Holst's life and musical style, be sure to check it out [here](#). And don't forget to explore our curated playlist of The Planets, linked in the show notes, to hear more of Holst's incredible work.

In our next episode, we'll take an in-depth look at another of Holst's other notable works and his lasting legacy in the world of music. Until then, keep listening and keep loving music!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 130: The Life of Gustav Holst

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Holst: The Planets, 'Mars' - BBC Proms

The Planets - II. Venus, The Bringer of Peace - Gustav Holst

The Planets - III. Mercury, the Winged Messenger - Gustav Holst

The Planets - IV. Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity - Gustav Holst

Gustav Holst - Saturn

The Planets - VI. Uranus, the Magician - Gustav Holst

The Planets - VII. Neptune, the Mystic - Gustav Holst

I've curated a playlist on YouTube of the pieces you heard in today's episode (in addition to a few additional performances of the Jupiter theme). Listen here.

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Welcome to Busy Kids Love Music, the podcast for busy families and kids who love music and want to learn more about their favorite composers, instruments, and styles of music. I'm your host, Carly Seifert, the creator of Busy Kids Do Piano, and today we are kicking off a special 3-part series on the life and music of the great composer, Gustav Holst.

In this first episode, we’ll explore Holst's family life, his early interest in music, his musical training, and some of the unique characteristics that make his compositions stand out.

Episode Highlights:

- Early Life and Family Background: Gustav Holst was born on September 21, 1874, in Cheltenham, England, into a musical family. His father, Adolph von Holst, was a professional musician, and his mother, Clara, was a singer and pianist. Sadly, Clara passed away when Gustav was just eight years old.

- Musical Training: Holst received his first piano lessons from his father and also learned to play the violin and trombone. Despite health issues such as severe asthma, neuritis, and eyesight problems, Holst's passion for music never waned. He began composing at the age of twelve.

- Royal College of Music: Holst faced initial rejection but eventually gained admission to the Royal College of Music in London in 1893. There, he studied composition with Sir Charles Villiers Stanford and formed a lifelong friendship with fellow composer Ralph Vaughan Williams.

- Family Life: In 1901, Holst married Isobel Harrison, a soprano and former student. They had a daughter, Imogen Holst, who became a respected composer, conductor, and musicologist. The Holst family was close-knit, providing Gustav with inspiration and support.

- Musical Influences and Style: Holst incorporated various influences into his compositions, including English folk music and Indian music. His innovative harmonies and complex rhythms gave his music a distinctive sound. He was also interested in astrology, which inspired his famous suite, "The Planets."

I hope you enjoy learning about the life of Gustav Holst. In our next episode, we’ll dive deeper into some of his most famous works, including "The Planets." Be sure to tune in and discover the magic of Holst’s music.

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Holst St. Paul's Suite

Gustav Holst - Two Pieces for Piano, H. 179 (1930-32)

Holst - Savitri

Gustav Holst - Mars

I've curated a playlist on YouTube of the pieces you heard in today's episode as well as additional famous works by Gustav Holst. Check it out here.

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If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!

Welcome to the final episode of our Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music series! Travel with me today as we explore the vibrant and historical folk music of Greece. This summer, we’ve traveled through Zambia, Fiji, Finland, and Argentina, learning about their rich musical traditions. If you missed any episodes, don’t worry – I’ve linked them all below. Grab your musical passport, and let's dive into the sounds of Greece!

In This Episode:

• Greek Dimotiko Music: Discover the traditional rural music known as Dimotiko, which features songs about love, nature, history, and heroic tales.
• Traditional Greek Instruments:
  • Bouzouki: Learn about this iconic stringed instrument, its history, and its distinctive, bright sound.
  • Lyra (Lyre): Explore the soulful and expressive three-stringed bowed instrument, central to the folk music of Crete and other Greek islands.
  • Santouri: This fascinating instrument, similar to a piano without keys, i played with small wooden mallets to create beautiful, ringing sounds
• Rebetiko Music: The "Greek blues" emerged in the early 20th century, with their expressive and often melancholic melodies.
• Greek Dance: Discover the famous Greek dance, Sirtaki, known for its lively pace and fun rhythms.

Thank you for joining me on this incredible musical adventure around the world during these summer months. I hope you’ve enjoyed exploring different cultures and their unique sounds. Music truly is a universal language that brings us all together. Don’t forget to tune in for our next brand-new episode in 2 weeks!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR GREECE

VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)

VISIT FINLAND (EPISODE 126)

VISIT FIJI (EPISODE 127)

VISIT ARGENTINA (EPISODE 128)

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Incredible Greece Folk Music

Themis Bouzouki - Manolis Karantinis | Solo Bouzouki - Dinata

Ancient music - Oldest complete song "Epitaph of Seikolos" - Greek Lyre, Har-Mose lute

Traditional music students from university of Ioannina (Greece)🇬🇷 are playing santouri

Greek Rebetiko Music

Zorba The Greek Dance - The Greek Orchestra Emmetron Music

Check out this curated playlist on my YouTube channel to view the instruments and dances we learned about in today's episode.

Subscribe & Review 

If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!

Welcome to Episode 128 of Busy Kids Love Music! I’m thrilled to bring you the 4th stop of our Around the World series, where we journey to different countries to explore their unique folk music traditions. Today, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant sounds of Argentina!

In This Episode:

• Chacarera: Discover this lively folk style from rural Argentina, characterized by guitars, bombo drums, and energetic dance movements.
•  Zamba: Experience the melancholic beauty of zamba, a slower genre with roots in indigenous and African music, featuring graceful dances with handkerchiefs.
• Tango: Learn about the iconic tango, its rich history, and its evolution from the neighborhoods of Buenos Aires to a global phenomenon.
• Instruments: Explore the distinctive sounds of Argentine folk music with instruments like the bombo drums and the bandoneón, adding depth and emotion to the compositions.

Join me again in two weeks for our final destination of the Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music summer series. Keep listening, exploring, and loving music!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR ARGENTINA

VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)

VISIT FINLAND (EPISODE 126)

VISIT FIJI (EPISODE 127)

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Argentina Folk Music

Facundo Toro - Enganchado de Chacareras pal' asado con amigos

ZAMBA Romantica ARGENTINA Georgina & Oscar MANDAGARAN

Buenos Tango | ARGENTINE MUSIC [The Best of Tango]

Che, Bandoneón! - Anibal Troilo - (arr. Leopoldo Federico)

Music from Argentina for Guitar and Bandoneon

The beautiful instruments and dances of Argentina can be viewed in this curated playlist on my YouTube channel.

Subscribe & Review 

If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!

Welcome to Episode 127 of Busy Kids Love Music! I’m thrilled to have you join me as we continue our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music. So far, we've explored the musical traditions of Zambia and Finland. If you missed those episodes, you can catch up by visiting the links below, where you can also print your passport stamps.

In This Episode:

• Fiji's Musical Heritage: Explore the beautiful island nation of Fiji, known for its vibrant and deeply rooted folk music.
• Traditional Instruments:
  • Lali Drum: Discover the resonant sounds of this long, wooden drum carved from a single piece of wood, used for communication in Fijian villages.
  • Bamboo Nose Flute: Learn about this unique instrument played by blowing through the nose, providing soothing music in ancient Fiji.
•  Cultural Traditions:
  • Meke Dance: Experience the traditional Fijian dance accompanied by singing and drumming, often performed during celebrations and gatherings.
  • Kava Ceremony: Understand the significance of this social ritual, where people share stories and music over a bowl of traditional kava.

Thank you for joining me on this musical journey to Fiji! Stay tuned for our next destination in two weeks as we continue our summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music. Until then, eep listening, exploring, and loving music!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR FIJI

VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)

VISIT FINLAND (EPISODE 126)

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Bula Maleya: Fiji Welcome Song

Lali Drum Beat at Sofitel Fiji

Fijian Meke Performance at Samoan & Fijian Wedding in Samoa

KALALENG(nose flute)

Tagi a Manumanu, Nautusolo

Enjoy the interesting instruments and dances from Fiji in this curated playlist.

Subscribe & Review 

If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!

Welcome to another episode of Busy Kids Love Music! In this episode, we continue our fourth annual summer series, Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music, with a journey to Finland. Discover the enchanting musical traditions of this beautiful Scandinavian country, from the mystical sounds of the kantele to the lively tunes of Pelimanni music.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: - The role of the kantele in Finnish folk music and its origins in Finnish mythology. - The significance of the Kalevala, Finland’s epic poem, and its influence on Finnish music. - The characteristics of Pelimanni music and its place in Finnish celebrations. - How Finnish folk music is inspired by nature and community.

Continue our musical journey around the world in the next episode of Busy Kids Love Music. Until then, keep listening, exploring, and creating beautiful music!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR FINLAND

VISIT ZAMBIA (EPISODE 125)

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Finnish folk song "Swans", arranged by V. Dulev, performed by Anastasia Krasilnikova

Finnish Nature & Kalevala Rune song NOSTATUS - Korjuu (runolaulu & kantele)

"Säkkijärven Polkka" - Finnish Folk Song

Finnish Kantele & Finland's nature | Suomen luonto ja Nostatus "Sanan Synty"

Enjoy viewing some of Finland's beauty as you listen to its folk music in this curated playlist.

Subscribe & Review 

If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more music-loving families!

Hello Busy Kids Love Music families! I am so excited to welcome you to the fourth annual summer series of our podcast: Around the World with Busy Kids Love Music! This summer, we’re packing our musical bags and embarking on a journey to explore folk music from different countries, collecting passport stamps along the way.

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT HERE

DOWNLOAD YOUR PASSPORT STAMP FOR ZAMBIA HERE

What is Folk Music?

Before we dive into our first destination, let's take a moment to understand what folk music is. Folk music tells stories about people, places, and traditions. It's music that has been passed down from generation to generation, helping us learn about different cultures, histories, and the unique qualities of each place.

First Stop: Zambia

For our first stop, we're heading to the vibrant and beautiful country of Zambia, located in southern Africa. My family and I had the incredible opportunity to visit Zambia recently, and we were absolutely enchanted by everything -- including the diverse musical experiences we encountered. In this episode, I'll share with you a little of what I learned!

Modern Influence and Cultural Fusion

Zambian folk music significantly influences modern Zambian music. Imagine mixing a special recipe with all kinds of flavors! People in Zambia love using traditional beats, catchy tunes, and cool instruments to create contemporary songs. Churches across Zambia incorporate indigenous musical elements, creating dynamic and spiritually uplifting worship services. This fusion of musical styles reflects Zambia's diverse cultural heritage and fosters a sense of community and belonging.

Listen to the Episode

In this podcast episode, you'll hear many of my own recordings from our trip to Zambia, including performances by the Ngoni people, music played on the silimba, and beautiful melodies from the thumb piano. I’ve also put together a curated playlist on YouTube (linked below) of other examples of Zambian folk music.

Make sure you have your passport and your stamp for Zambia, and let’s get ready to embark on this musical adventure together!

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Here is a reel from my Instagram of some of the music you heard from my personal recordings in Zambia.

Kalindula Music - Zambian Traditional Music 2023

Tinashé: Mbira version of "Zambezi"

In addition to this highlight reel of music from my visit, I put together a curated playlist of Zambian folk music on YouTube. Check it out 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!

Welcome back to Busy Kids Love Music, where we delve into the fascinating world of music and its incredible instruments. Today's episode is dedicated to exploring the unique and versatile banjo, the perfect instrument to learn about during this African-American Music Appreciation Month as it is significant in Black musical traditions of the past and present.

**Exploring African Ancestors:**

Listeners will be treated to a glimpse of the banjo's ancestor, the akonting, as we learn about similar instruments in West Africa and their journey to the Americas through the enslaved African population.

**The Influence of Blackface Minstrelsy:**

In the 1830s, blackface minstrelsy propelled the banjo into fame in the United States, albeit through problematic portrayals of Black culture. We'll discuss the role of Joel Walker Sweeney and other white performers in popularizing the banjo in minstrel shows. By the mid-19th century, the banjo had become a ubiquitous part of American musical culture. We'll explore how makers and music book writers tailored the banjo's image and playing style to appeal to white audiences.

**Banjo's Enduring Legacy:**

The banjo's bright tones and distinctive fingerpicking style made it the most popular stringed instrument in America by the late 1800s. Let's learn about and celebrate the banjo's continued influence across different musical genres, from bluegrass to jazz and rock. Modern banjo virtuosos like Béla Fleck and Rhiannon Giddens ensure the ongoing relevance in today's music landscape. I encourage you to explore the curated playlist of banjo music linked below!

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Daniel Jatta Plays an Akonting Tune Written by his Father

Willow Osborne - Foggy Mountain Breakdown

Alabama Joe Tom Briggs banjo

Appalachian Bluegrass Banjo & Fiddle Music

Béla Fleck - Wheels Up

You'll love the variety of banjo music in this episode's curated playlist. Check it out 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!

Welcome to the latest episode of Busy Kids Love Music, where we embark on a musical journey into the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev's ballet masterpiece, "Cinderella." Today we'll dive into the enchanting melodies and unforgettable moments that make this composition a timeless treasure.

**Discovering Prokofiev's Ballet Legacy:** Sergei Prokofiev, renowned for his innovative compositions and mastery of musical storytelling, left an indelible mark on the world of ballet. Throughout his illustrious career, Prokofiev completed eight ballets, each a testament to his unparalleled creativity and ability to transport audiences to new worlds.

**Unveiling the Magic of Cinderella:** "Cinderella" is a ballet in three acts, composed by Prokofiev between 1940 and 1944. Inspired by the classic fairy tale, the ballet follows the story of Cinderella, a kind-hearted young woman longing for escape from her life of hardship. With evocative music and enchanting choreography, Prokofiev brings this beloved tale to life in a way that captivates audiences of all ages.

**Exploring Key Musical Pieces:** In our podcast episode, we spotlight some of the most iconic pieces from "Cinderella," including the grand finale "Waltz-Coda," the suspenseful "Midnight" music, and the romantic melody known as "Amoroso." Through these excerpts, listeners are transported into the heart of Prokofiev's enchanting world, where magic and emotion intertwine.

**Historical Significance:** Despite the challenging circumstances of World War II, "Cinderella" made its debut on November 21, 1945, at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. The premiere was a resounding success, enchanting audiences with its rich music, dazzling costumes, and breathtaking choreography, solidifying its place as a beloved classic of the ballet repertoire.

Join me on this enchanting journey through the magical world of Sergei Prokofiev's "Cinderella." Let the captivating melodies and timeless tale of love, hope, and transformation transport you to a world of beauty and wonder. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more musical explorations and episodes!

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 121: The Life of Sergei Prokofiev

Episode 122: Peter and the Wolf

Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:

Prokofiev - Cinderella Suite (Introduction)

Cinderella - Ballet in Three Acts, Op. 87, Act II: No. 37 Waltz - Coda

Prokofiev - Cinderella Suite - Midnight

Prokofiev - Cinderella "Amoroso"

Check out this episode's curated playlist on YouTube, where I've shared live performances to some of Prokofiev's music from Cinderella.

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!

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

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!