Somehow adults seem to have less patience for children's music than other child-oriented things. I get it. I avoid much of it when I can. But, have compassion - children's brains can't detect all the meaning hidden in subtleties, whether it's adult conversation, black and white film, or discordant rock. They're drawn to the exaggerated features in whatever is around them because they can understand it easier, and music is no exception.
That said, there is music readily enjoyed by old and young alike. A lot of it is folk-style. My husband and now nine-year-old daughter have good memories of listening to Johnny Cash together. The melody of many of his songs is catchy and repetitive. The instrumentation is simple and obvious. One of my favorite memories is sitting outside a bar with my parents, daughter, and a few other relatives, including my uncle Steve who is an extremely experienced musician. He was playing all sorts of numbers for us on the guitar. My dad asked if Steve would play any Johnny Cash. He started to roll his eyes when my then-five-year-old whipped her head around and crowed, "I loooooooove Johnny Cash!" You should have seen my other uncle Don laugh. Cash it was.
We've discovered another artist we all like who does record albums for children: Charlie Hope. She's got several records, but our favorites are Sing as We Go! and Songs, Stories, and Friends 2: Where the Path Will Wind. Her voice and guitar refresh over-familiar tunes, and her original songs are fetching, such as "Like an Evergreen." (Actually, I don't know if it's original - I can't find the credits.)
I cried listening to "Land of the Silver Birch" while cleaning the house by myself one Saturday morning (not because I was cleaning. by myself).
Charlie Hope's music is the only "children's music" my husband plays of his own accord for the kids. But, parents, I challenge you - do let in a little annoying music for their sake. They like it now. They'll outgrow it soon. You've probably seen the Wee Sing kids' albums. Some of their songs could drive you nuts, but I'm glad these albums are preserving many strong, old songs. My daughter and I still sing some of them in rounds when bored in the car.
Now I have a request of YOU.
I want to create two playlists: one of children's music that parents can mostly enjoy, and one of children's music that imparts Scripture and teaching. I'm sure there's a lot I haven't heard. Please tell me about what music YOU would recommend. It could come from child-oriented albums or regular albums that you think kids would like. E-mail (post AT vandaliaroom DOT com) or Facebook me!
4/13/2019 A Spotify playlist has been created - click here to read about it.