Busy Kids Love Music Carly Seifert

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"
Playlist for Episode 123 Check out this episode's curated playlist on YouTube, where I've shared live performances to some of Prokofiev's music from Cinderella.
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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
Playlist for Episode 122 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
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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 episode 121 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast! In this episode, we'll kick off a special 3-part composer series all about the incredible Sergei Prokofiev. Get ready to dive into the life and musical contributions of this legendary composer!
Episode Highlights:
Discover the life of Sergei Prokofiev, a Russian composer, pianist, and conductor born in 1891. Learn about Prokofiev's early musical talent, including composing his first piece at age five and an opera by age nine. Explore Prokofiev's bold and innovative musical style, characterized by daring compositions and a penchant for pushing musical boundaries. Hear excerpts from some of Prokofiev's most famous works, including his Piano Concerto No. 2 and the Scythian Suite, to experience the excitement and drama in his music. Learn about Prokofiev's life after the Russian Revolution, his marriage to Spanish singer Carolina Codina, and his passion for chess. Find out how you can explore more of Prokofiev's music with my curated playlist in the show notes. Stay tuned for the next two episodes of Busy Kids Love Music, where we will dive deeper into some of Prokofiev's most famous songs. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your favorite listening platform so you don't miss out on future episodes. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the Busy Kids Love Music podcast to help more people discover our musical community.
Thanks for joining me on this musical journey through the life and music of Sergei Prokofiev! Keep listening to and loving music, and we'll see you again in two weeks for the next episode. Bye for now!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Waitlist to join Busy Kids Do Piano
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Martha Argerich Plays Prokofiev Piano Concerto No.3 | Singapore International Piano Festival
Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor Op.16 - Yuja Wang
Prokofiev Scythian Suite, Op. 20
Prokofiev - Love Of Three Oranges– Marriner/London Symphony Orchestra
Playlist for Episode 121 I've put together a curated playlist of the pieces you heard in today's episode along with a few additional famous Prokofiev arrangements. 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! I'm thrilled to continue our Solar Eclipse series with Episode 120, where we'll explore the enchanting world of songs inspired by the moon.
🌙 **Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven:** We kick off our lunar journey with Beethoven's iconic "Moonlight Sonata". Discover the hauntingly beautiful melodies and the emotional depth that has captivated listeners for centuries.
🌙 **"Song to the Moon" from Rusalka by Antonín Dvořák:** Join me as we delve into the world of opera with Dvořák's mesmerizing aria, "Song to the Moon". Experience the longing and yearning of Rusalka as she sings to the moon, seeking solace and guidance in her quest for love.
🌙 **Clair de Lune by Debussy:** Next, we immerse ourselves in the dreamy soundscape of Debussy's "Clair de Lune". Lose yourself in the shimmering moonlight as Debussy paints a musical portrait of nocturnal beauty.
🌙 **"Lake in the Moonlight" from Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky:** Finally, we conclude our lunar journey with Tchaikovsky's ethereal "Lake in the Moonlight" from his beloved ballet Swan Lake. Lose yourself in the magical atmosphere as Odette dances under the moon's gentle glow.
Join me as we explore these enchanting pieces and discover the timeless allure of music inspired by the moon. Tune in to Episode 120 of Busy Kids Love Music and let the fun begin!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 119: Songs Inspired by the Sun
Episode 55: Clair de Lune
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Beethoven - Moonlight Sonata (FULL)
Renee Fleming,@Dvorak - Song to the moon - Rusalka
Clair de Lune (Extended)
Tchaikovsky - Lake in the Moonlight
Playlist for Episode 120 I've put together a curated playlist of the 4 pieces we learned about in today's episode so that you can hear them in their entirety. 
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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 Episode 119 of Busy Kids Love Music! As we eagerly anticipate the celestial spectacle of the 2024 Solar Eclipse, we embark on a two-part journey through the realms of classical music inspired by the sun and the moon.
In this inaugural episode of our series, we set our sights on the sun. Across centuries, composers have drawn inspiration from the majestic glow and celestial dance of our nearest star, crafting masterpieces that capture its essence in musical form.
Join me as we delve into three extraordinary compositions: Richard Strauss's awe-inspiring Alpine Symphony, Joseph Haydn's enchanting 'Sun' quartets from his Op. 20, and Carl Nielsen's evocative Helios Overture. Each piece offers a unique perspective on the sun's power, beauty, and mystique, inviting us to bask in its radiance through the language of music.
At Busy Kids Love Music, we believe in making learning a joyous adventure for the whole family. Join me as we journey through the celestial symphony of the cosmos, where music and education unite to inspire curiosity and ignite imaginations!
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Eine Alpensinfonie (An Alpine Symphony) , Op. 64: Nacht (Night) - Sonnenaufgang (Sunrise)
J. Haydn — String Quartet No. 4, Op. 20 / Meccore String Quartet
Carl Nielsen - Helios Overture, Op. 17
Playlist for Episode 119 I've put together a curated playlist of the 3 pieces we learned about in today's episode. It makes great background music for science homework if your student is learning more about the upcoming solar eclipse!
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!
 
 

 
In Episode 118 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, we delve into the life and works of Fanny Crosby, an influential figure and prolific hymn writer. This special episode not only pays homage to her remarkable talent but also highlights the importance of recognizing the often-overlooked contributions of women in music history.
Fanny Crosby, born in 1820, lost her sight as an infant due to a medical mishap. Despite this early adversity, she went on to become one of the most productive hymn writers in history, penning over 8,000 hymns during her lifetime. Her timeless compositions, including beloved classics like "Blessed Assurance," "To God Be the Glory," and "Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior," continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, transcending generations and denominations.
Throughout Episode 118, listeners will be treated to an immersive exploration of Fanny Crosby's life and music. From her humble beginnings in rural New York to her enduring legacy as a trailblazing female composer, each segment offers valuable insights into her remarkable journey.
Moreover, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite. Fanny Crosby's hymns, with their profound lyrics and timeless melodies, have provided solace and strength to countless individuals throughout history, serving as a source of comfort and hope in times of joy and sorrow alike.
As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's essential to reflect on the countless contributions of women like Fanny Crosby, whose talents and tenacity have left an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond. Through Episode 118 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast, listeners of all ages are invited to join in this celebration, honoring the life, legacy, and enduring spirit of an influential female composer.
Tune in to Episode 118 of the Busy Kids Love Music podcast and embark on a musical journey through the life and works of Fanny Crosby—a fitting tribute to Women's History Month and a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift us all.
Musical Samples You'll Hear in this Episode:
Blessed Assurance by Fanny Crosby (Piano Instrumental)
Fanny Crosby Hymns on Harp
Praise The Lord (To God Be The Glory) (Hymns with lyrics)
Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior - Jonathan Anderson Violin Hymns
Music Listening Schedule for Episode 118 I've put together a curated playlist of some of the pieces we highlighted in today's episode as well as a few of the many hymn arrangements of Fanny Crosby's collection.
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!