A Symphony of Stories: Musical Myths and Tuneful Tales

By Author / Illustrator
James Mayhew
Genre
Myths & Legends
Age range(s)
5+
Publisher
Otter-Barry Books
ISBN
9781915659347
Format
Hardback
Published
14-11-2024
Synopsis
Six world famous orchestral pieces from six renowned composers feature in this superbly illustrated gift book, introducing children to the world of classical music through story and illustration.
James Mayhew tells the stories of six much-loved pieces of music, accompanied by breathtaking illustrations:
Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saens; The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi; The Sunken Cathedral by Claude Debussy; The Butterfly Lovers by Chen Gang and He Zhanhao; The Planets by Gustav Holst; The Firebird by Igor Stravinsky.
Reviews
Sue
This companion volume to Once Upon a Tune continues to share the joy of music and art, inspiring young readers to explore the world of classical music and the stories it tells. A Symphony of Stories offers six stories, most 'retold from the original tales which inspired the composer' and each beautifully illustrated.
A Symphony of Stories is a stunning celebration of creativity - a book to keep and treasure. Mayhew's passion for these pieces shines through in his introduction, the accompanying notes and, above all, his fabulous illustrations which are completely captivating. There are even suggested recordings for each piece included, making it easy for adults at home or at school to share the music with children whilst enjoying the stories.
From a teacher's perspective, the book is perfect for enriching the curriculum: music appreciation lessons, assemblies, story times, art lessons - all these and more could be inspired by A Symphony of Stories, sprinkling a little much-needed creative joy into learning!
I particularly enjoy 'The Sunken Cathedral' by Debussy, based on the Breton legend of the city of Ys, and 'The Butterfly Lovers' by H Zhanhao and Chen Gang, perhaps because I was less familiar with them. The notes at the end of the book were really helpful, both for background and for 'understanding' the music.
I hope James Mayhew continues to write more books like this - and 'Once Upon a Tune' - breathing life and love into more musical stories.
96 pages / Ages 5-9 years / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher
Suggested Reading Age 5+