Simply Fantastic: An Introduction to Classical Music

I bought this for my musically gifted child and there is a wealth of wonderful infortmation, but now we will be shelving it for a few years because many of images are pretty frightening. I am aware this book is intended for older children, but I was really surprised when I received it and flipped through it.I wanted to share the creepier images so others can decide if it’s appropriate for their child. Some sensitive children may still find them upsetting. The artwork is gorgeous, and many are lovely like the cover image, but it’s roughly half that are like those pictured.

Whoa. The first book was great, but I would wish this book as a gift to no child. It really should be called Demons, Evil, Witches, Death and Love. I had no idea the songs which were well known and done brilliantly had such violent words, and every creature that was once good is now evil. The pictures for the most part reflect evil. I don't know exactly which market this book would reach. Knowing that it could have been a big help. There really might be someone out there who wants to explore these issues in opera and symphony.

I am thoroughly impressed with this book - wealth of information, stunning illustrations, .pdf of pages to be able to show on the big screen in class, and the descriptions of songs with accompanying CD. I'm excited to be using this with my music students.

A little advanced for my elementary school aged kids, but a good overall intro to classical music.

Completely excellent for the beginning of teaching children about various classical pieces. I can liken this to Leonard Bernstein and his own programs on classical instruction for children. This is a keeper for everyone.

The best gift one can give to first time parents! The illustrations are beautiful. Can't wait to read it to Future baby girl Garibay-Vences.

for the library

Everything was Great!

This CD and book are excellent! I love the improvements to the book format, including a listening guide that tells more about what you are hearing from the musicians.My only real complaint is that several of the pieces scare my kids. The CD features a lot of witches/demons/devils' songs, and they find it a bit creepy, whereas Listen to the Birds has been on forever-repeat in our car.But it is a good product, especially for older kids.