Verdi for Kids

Overview

Giuseppe Verdi, one of the most influential composers of the 19th century and a dominant force in Italian opera for 50 years, is illuminated in this thorough exploration geared toward young musicians. Offering insight into Verdi’s long life—from the horrible loss of his family to the disapproving opinions of his neighbors—and opening the world of opera and Italian culture, this resource creates an accessible and tangible investigation into the elite world of classical opera. Engaging and creative activities, such as singing like a diva, making a panpipe, playing bocce ball, and sketching a costume for Falstaff, reinforce the musical concepts and terms that are introduced within and elucidate the times in which Verdi lived. Along with learning about various opera jobs, opera production, what takes place at rehearsals, and opera house history, inquisitive kids will gain a fuller understanding of Verdi’s life, times, and music and how the composer intersected with the great musicians and events of his lifetime.

Reviews

“A good choice for young musicians.” —School Library Journal

“This will be particularly useful for parents and classroom teachers hoping to make the study of great music more interesting.” —Kirkus Reviews

"Bauer competently ties together Verdi’s life and the development of Italy into a unified country in a way that helps readers (both youth and adult) understand the complexity of each." —Booklist

Author Biography

Helen Bauer is the author of Beethoven for Kids and Young People’s Guide to Classical Music. She lives in Delray Beach, Florida. Deborah Voigt is one of the world’s leading opera singers, most famous for her performances of the great heroines of composers Richard Wagner, Richard Strauss, and Giuseppe Verdi.