Listen to the Birds: An Introduction to Classical Music, Gerhard

Author: Ana Gerhard
Illustrator: Cecilia Varela
Format: Hardcover, 48 pages
Publisher: The Secret Mountain (2013)
ISBN: 9782923163895

Throughout history birds have caught the imagination of composers and inspired their creativity, and this selection of works by Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Vivaldi and others introduces children to classical music through the discovery of the melodious similarities between notes produced by instruments such as the flute, organ and harpsichord to birdsong. In addition to lovely illustrations, the book features a glossary of musical terms, a short biography of each composer and a brief description of each bird evoked or mentioned in the composition.

The accompanying CD offers excerpts of 20 different recordings — ranging from The Goldfinch, Hens and Roosters and The Dance of the Swans to The Cuckoo and the Nightingale and the Firebird — performed by world-class luminaries including the London Symphony Orchestra, Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Toronto Chamber Orchestra.

About Ana Gerhard:

Ana Gerhard studied as a concert pianist at the Mexican National Conservatory. She has taught piano for several years and has hosted numerous radio programs dedicated to the promotion of classical music.