Introducing classical music

[elizabeth.scalf]

Turns out my kids love classical music. I'm trying to decide how to introduce more of it. We've been doing music time a few times a weeks, where I put it on for 15-20 minutes and we can sit quietly, or they stand a dance a little. My oldest has started picking up some of the melodies.

We have two CDs that I rotate between. They are a collection of various composers. What's the easiest way to make music accessible for young kids? Should I let them learn these 2 CDs thoroughly so they really understand the music and can hum along? Or should I have a dozen CDs that I cycle through so they learn a greater variety? Does it matter?

[luvsviola]

Doesn't really matter. I would probably play two or three things regularly to start, then add new stuff in, while continuing to play the old stuff too. The Suzuki method has kids listen to the songs they are learning 10 times per day, and you keep listening to the old stuff so you don't forget it when you add new stuff in.

I wouldn't make them sit still for it, though. I'd just put it on while they are playing.

We have a DVD player in my car, and I put on concert DVDs in the car. That way, it is like I have a captive audience! The kids enjoy them.