Let's Start the Music: Programming for Primary Grades

Brown, an experienced programmer in public library settings, makes a solid case for weaving multiple intelligences into primary grade programs. She explores several benefits of integrating music into story and literacy programs, then outlines simple strategies for all children's staff to feature more music and instruments in their events. Brown shares 13 themed programs, ranging from sing-alongs and animals to fairy tales and food, and each theme includes an extensive list of books, songs, an activity, and an instrument craft. All topics include plenty of alternate story and song options, making these programs easily usable and modifiable by both veteran and novice programmers. Annotations of program elements are superb, leaving readers well equipped to offer musical programs immediately after reading. Appendices direct readers to even more ready-to-use program elements. An excellent addition to any public library professional collection.—Amy Koester, St. Charles City-County Library District, Wentzville, MO