Smithsonian Folkways Children's Music Collection. Various artists. Desperation Records, 1998. 54 minutes, UPC 09307-45043-21
Reader's Annotation: An incredible collection of songs, word play, and poetry for and by young people, selected from the Smithsonian Folkways Recordings Library.Summary: This twenty-six track collection features folk songs from many cultures and ethnic groups including African American, African Caribbean, Anglo-American, Jewish, Native American, and Hispanic. With music from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, children will gain valuable exposure to global sounds.
The collection features musicians such as Pete Seeger, Lead Belly, Ella Jenkins, and Woody Guthrie, as well as poetry read by Langston Hughes, and word play by several groups of children. Some of the songs may be familiar to children of today (Mary Mack and Twinkle, twinkle Little Star), while others will be brand new (Old Bell Cow and Oksn).
The extensive liner notes provide information about the origins and history of each included song, as well as lyrics and details about the vocalist and musicians performing the work. A catalog listing of other related Smithsonian Folkways recordings is included for reference and as recommended selections for further listening.
Critical Evaluation: Beginning in 1948, Folkways Recordings began documenting folk, world, and children's music. Now an arm of the Smithsonian's Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, this amazing library of sound preserves the musical heritage of many cultural groups.
This particular album of children's songs draws on this rich musical catalog with a resulting sample of widely diverse and authentic cultural selections. While many of the recordings were made decades ago, and the sound quality is not as polished as we may be accustomed to, the genuine realness of the performances more than compensates for any deficiencies in production.
In our modern society, it is vitally important for children to develop an appreciation for cultures and people different from themselves. An exposure to multicultural music, art, and traditions can further understanding of and create respect for diversity among young people.
Age or Interest Level: Ages 2 to 8
Lexile Level: ---
Awards: ---
Why Included? This is a true celebration of our world's rich musical heritage. Not only do these songs demonstrate the incredible diversity found within folk music, they are enjoyable to listen to.