Favorite Children's Books in My Music Studio's Library
One of my favorite features of my home studio is the studio library I’ve been able to put together for students and their families! Keeping these music titles close by has given siblings something to look through as they listen in on lessons and helped me come up with themes for my group classes. Other times students mention an interest in a composer or style of music and I can quickly refer them to a related book!
Today I wanted to share a few of my recent favorites, maybe you’ll find the next title (or two!) you want to add to your studio!
Five Favorite Music books for Children
"The Man with the Violin" by Kathy Stinson
In this heartwarming tale, Dylan and his mother rush through a bustling train station, oblivious to the captivating music of virtuoso Joshua Bell playing his violin. As the young boy becomes entranced by the mesmerizing melodies, his mother's hurried pace contrasts with his fascination, highlighting the power of music to enrich our lives, remind us to savor the moment, and find beauty in unexpected places. I love this story because of how succinctly it illustrates the difference between an adult and childlike perspective, and is a great reminder for my studio parents to be a little more observant, while introducing my students to a professional musician.
"Zin Zin Zin a Violin" by Lloyd Moss
A delightful and educational journey through the world of music, this book introduces young readers to different musical instruments through a rhythmic counting narrative. From one solo violin to ten blaring trombones, the orchestra grows in this delightful tale that harmoniously combines facts with playful rhymes, encouraging children to appreciate the symphony of sounds in the world around them.
"Mole Music" by David M. McPhail
Meet Mole, a small creature who lives underground and dreams of bringing beauty to the world through his music. After receiving a violin and learning to play, Mole practices diligently, pouring his heart into his compositions. Unbeknownst to him, his music has a profound effect, spreading joy and serenity across the meadow above. This touching story celebrates the transformative power of art and the ability of one individual's passion to touch the lives of many.
"Go Tell Aunt Rhody" illustrated by Aliki
This classic nursery rhyme is brought to life through Aliki's charming illustrations. Young readers follow a young boy as he embarks on a journey to visit his Aunt Rhody. Along the way, he encounters various animal friends and learns about the sounds of nature in a playful and interactive manner. The book captivates children with its vivid images and teaches them about the world around them, making it a delightful reading experience. This is one of the most recent additions to my studio library after a student’s mom recently gifted it to the studio - How thoughtful is that? I love the illustrations and how it really depicts what makes this a traditional American folk song.
"Because" by Mo Willems
In this touching story, young readers can see the ripple effects from sound to sound, musician to musician, age to age that creates a larger music community. I don’t know that I can word it much better myself, so here’s what Amazon has to say about this book: “Mo Willems, a number one New York Times best-selling author and illustrator, composes a powerful symphony of chance, discovery, persistence, and magic in this moving tale of a young girl's journey to center stage.” All of these things are true! For myself, I love how this book highlights how little, seemingly insignificant events can culminate into a beautiful life - And we often don’t know what that spark will be!
SO WHAT BOOk is going on your wish list next?!
These just a few books I’ve been loving to read lately with my daughter or recommending to my students and their families in lessons. I love encouraging an atmosphere of learning and reading - This gives our music students points for creativity, areas to explore and deepen their connection with the music studies. There are many more titles I can’t wait to share with you some time soon, so keep your eyes peeled and share your current favorites with me in the comments or on Instagram at @shawstrings.
Happy reading!
