Music During Pandemics

Episode #27 of Busy Kids Love Music invites you to explore the profound and uplifting world of music created during times of pandemics. As we navigate through the challenges of our current global situation, today's episode sheds light on how composers throughout history have responded to adversity with beauty, creativity, and resilience. Join me on this musical journey as we discover the stories behind compositions born during times of hardship. Step back in time with us as we explore the world of cantatas, with a focus on Cantata No. 25 by the prolific J.S. Bach. Learn how Bach, renowned for his extensive catalog of cantatas, responded to a pandemic in France with a composition that transcends time. Uncover the emotional depth and timeless beauty woven into this musical tapestry. Delve into the innovative mind of Igor Stravinsky as we unravel the story behind "The Firebird Suite." Discover how Stravinsky repurposed a famous piece to navigate financial challenges during a global pandemic. Witness the transformative power of creativity as Stravinsky turns adversity into an opportunity for artistic reinvention. In this episode, we also explore a humorous opera commissioned during the 1918 flu pandemic. Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of "The Love for Three Oranges" by Prokofiev, where laughter and music intertwine to uplift spirits during a challenging time. Busy Kids Love Music is dedicated to making classical music and its stories accessible and enjoyable for young minds. Episode #26 not only celebrates the resilience of composers during pandemics but also provides educational insights into different musical forms, historical contexts, and the enduring power of creativity. Whether you're a parent looking to share stories of creative resilience with your child or a young listener eager to explore the transformative power of music, Episode #26 is a must-listen. Subscribe to Busy Kids Love Music on your preferred podcast platform and let the inspiring sounds of compositions born from adversity uplift your spirits. Join me as we harmonize with the resilience of composers during pandemics. Happy listening! Musical Samples You’ll Hear in this Episode: Cantata No. 25 (J.S. Bach) Stella Celi (Cooke) The Firebird Suite (Stravinsky) Two Pieces from The Love for Three Oranges (Prokofiev) Music Listening Schedule for Episode 27 I've created a YouTube playlist for you with ten performances connected to this episode's theme. Check it out here. Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts! If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!