Nursery World - Music corner (28)

We have come to expect books for children to be imaginatively written, beautifully illustrated and well produced. In comparison, music for children on CD can be of very variable quality and, in general, has yet to reach the high standards of children's books. It is therefore important that we are discerning when buying it. I was delighted to discover Walking Oliver, a company aiming to produce 'quality music for kids'. 'Oliver Unleashed on British Isles' is a collection of children's folk songs beautifully sung by Paul Austin Kelly.

I was delighted to discover Walking Oliver, a company aiming to produce 'quality music for kids'. 'Oliver Unleashed on British Isles' is a collection of children's folk songs beautifully sung by Paul Austin Kelly.

Paul is a trained opera singer but he rarely turns on the full operatic voice. Some songs romp along in traditional folk style, while others have a country and western twang, and others are done as pop/rock.

The songs are accompanied by a range of 'real' acoustic instruments (not just a keyboard linked up to midi system) played skilfully in interesting and varied arrangements.

'Hello, Michael Rosen!' is a collection of Rosen's poetry brought to musical life. My favourite is 'Boogy Woogy Buggy', which will be a must for mother and toddler music groups. Most of the songs are more suited for older children, but they are in touch with children's contemporary lives.

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