Carol of the Day
"Jingle Bells" is a song many people are quite familiar with, young and old alike. This song was also used as part of a prank in 1965.
Composer of the Day
Christoph Willibald Gluck was a omposer during the Classical period especially known for his operas and for reforming the operatic styles of that era. He came from a family of foresters but Gluck's true passion was in music. When he was about 13 years old, he left home, perhaps to avoid the family profession. His most successful works include his "reform operas" with Ranieri Calzabigi namely "Orfeo ed Euridice" and "Alceste."
Today in Music History
On this day in 1791, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart died in Vienna. At the age of 5, Mozart already wrote a miniature allegro (K. 1b) and andante (K. 1a). He was sickly as a child and died at the young age of 35. Yet, his over 600 compositions still influence countless musicians and listeners to this day. Among his famous works are "Symphony No. 35 Haffner, K. 385 - D Major," "Così fan tutte, K. 588" and "Requiem Mass, K. 626 - d minor."
Suggested Stocking Stuffer
I Can Play Guitar - Compare Prices - This guitar-learning system was included in last years' gift guide and this year, it's still on the list. The I Can Play Guitar System by Fisher-Price/Mattel teaches notes, chords, playing techniques and more using a color-coded system. Lessons are presented in a game format and children are rewarded whenever they advance. This system comes with a song and game cartridge, guitar with strap and TV cord. Available in two colors; blue and purple. Recommended for kids 6 years old and up.
Inside the Music Education Blogosphere
Over at the Music Matters blog, Natalie Wickham posts the 4th and final clue to her Great Pianists Mystery.
