DK Eyewitness Books: Music: Discover Music in All its Forms and the Amazing Variety of Instruments from Zith
DK Eyewitness Books Series
on Goodreads (103)
What’s inside...
This book provides an original and exciting look at the world of sound and music through superb real-life photographs of instruments from various cultures and eras. Readers can explore how different instruments produce sound, learn about the invention of new musical technologies, and discover unusual facts about musical instruments. The book is part of the trusted Eyewitness series, known for its comprehensive and integrated approach to presenting information through words and pictures. The book offers a unique 'eyewitness' view of ancient and contemporary music, explaining the mechanics of how instruments create sound, such as how strings vibrate and how air sounds a pipe. It showcases interesting instruments like a peacock-shaped instrument and explains the use of unconventional materials like vegetable gourds and reindeer toe-bones in instruments.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is one new instrument you learned about from this book and what makes it unique?
Can you think of a type of music that might use the instruments we read about? How do you think it would sound?
Why do you think people make music? Does it serve different purposes in different cultures?
If you could invent a new musical instrument, what would it look like and what sounds would it make?
How do you feel when you listen to music? Do different kinds of music make you feel different emotions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about different music styles mentioned in the book.
Ask your child to describe the instruments using their senses—how they think they might sound, look, or even feel.
Connect the discussion to personal experiences, such as attending a concert or participating in a music class at school.
Use the book as a starting point to explore music from various cultures, enhancing their global awareness and appreciation.
Listen to musical samples together that feature the instruments discussed in the book to deepen understanding and connection to the material.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of cultural diversity
Explanation: The book explores music from various cultures, demonstrating how it reflects the values and history of a community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to respect and appreciate the traditions and customs of others, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic world view.
Example Lesson: The importance of practice and dedication
Explanation: By showcasing the complexity of different musical instruments and the skill required to play them, the book emphasizes the value of hard work and dedication.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by developing a habit of regular practice and persistence in their own pursuits, whether in music, sports, or academics.
Example Lesson: Creative expression
Explanation: The book highlights the variety of musical forms and the creative ways people have contributed to the field of music, encouraging readers to explore their own creative expression.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore their own ways of expressing themselves creatively, be it through learning an instrument, singing, or composing.
Example Lesson: Historical understanding of music
Explanation: Through its detailed exposition on the evolution of music and instruments, the book provides a compelling historical perspective.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of history in shaping our current world, encouraging them to explore and learn about other historical aspects and their impacts.
Example Lesson: Collaboration in music
Explanation: The book often mentions how different instruments can harmonize together to create beautiful music, promoting the concept of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of working together harmoniously, be it in group projects at school, team sports, or family activities.