A History of Music for Children

Following on from the success of the award-winning A History of Pictures for Children comes this introduction to the history of music that takes children on a musical journey around the world. Readers will meet along the way a diverse cast of composers, musicians and performers who all make music in different ways in a variety of different genres, from Bach to Billie Eilish, Mozart to Miriam Makeba.

Why do we make music? Which instruments make up a classical orchestra? How does music affect our brains and emotions? These are just some of the fascinating questions addressed in this book, which looks at music’s transnational and boundary-breaking qualities. All over the world and throughout time, music has been recorded and passed down through different oral traditions and forms of notation. It has always been a powerful catalyst for influencing change and connecting people. And what might the future of music hold? Exploring the technology we use to listen to and create music, the authors imagine new possibilities such as computer-generated compositions and robot musicians.

About the Authors

Mary Richards is a publisher, author and illustrator. She adapted and edited David Hockney’s bestselling A History of Pictures for Children, and is the author of Splat!: The Most Exciting Artists of All Time, both published by Thames & Hudson.

David Schweitzer is a composer and songwriter. He has written music for children’s TV shows including Charlie & Lola, The Cat in the Hat, Angry Birds and Miffy. He has also scored documentaries and drama, including the 2020 film, Emma. Together with Mary, he runs a children’s orchestra in London.

About the Illustrator

Rose Blake is an award-winning artist and illustrator who has illustrated numerous books for children, including A History of Pictures for Children.

Reviews

"So inspired and patiently crafted, with such a beautiful palette. When I read it, it was as if I was transported to my childhood – miraculous. These days, at the push of a button one can reference all these amazing artistes, which will open the door to worlds of music that seep deep into the soul, and our personal shambhala. This book really is a beautiful gift and a work of art" —Chaz Jankel

"The magical story of music presented as one glorious, boundary-free jumble of creation where Mozart, DJ Kool Herc and 12th-century choral works feature on the same page. Enthralling, inspiring, boldly original and with the funniest and most charming illustrations" —Mark Ellen, music writer and broadcaster

"I've read a stack of other histories of music and couldn't recommend any of them to a child – they were always written from the perspective of one tribe, excluding others, or else they were sunk by heavy-handed agendas. Mary Richards and David Schweitzer have produced an inclusive survey which glows with unforced enthusiasm for the endless variety of music-making. Rose Blake's vibrant illustrations are a perfect match for the text – genial, generous-spirited, surprisingly ambitious, and fun" —Michel Faber

"[A] wide-ranging, accessible and rich resource for musical exploration – a feast for eyes, ears and mind!" —The School Librarian

Dimensions: 21.6 x 27.9 cm