Alfred Music, the world leader in educational print music publishing since 1922, proudly presents two captivating publications that celebrate the rich tapestry of diverse cultures: International Sound Stories by Anna Wentlent and Folk Songs Around the World by an ensemble of esteemed composers.
International Sound Stories: Folk Tales, Fables, and Poems for the Music Classroom by Anna Wentlent is an enchanting collection that transports readers on a cultural voyage through music. This innovative publication combines storytelling with music, offering a unique and immersive experience. Twenty folk tales, fables, and poems have been thoughtfully selected from a variety of countries with rich storytelling traditions, including India, Korea, Hawaii, Mexico, Ireland, Germany, Ghana, and more. These tales can be read and played as written, used as inspiration for student creation (such as curated playlists or digital compositions), or employed as a resource for interdisciplinary work. For convenience, each story is also included as a PDF to project or print. Recommended for grades 1–6.
Additionally, Alfred Music presents Folk Songs Around the World, ten authentic folk songs from around the globe arranged for both two-part treble singers and unison voices (downloadable song sheets for both are included). This collection features arrangements by Greg Gilpin, Ruth Morris Gray, Mary Donnelly, George L. O. Strid, Victor C. Johnson, Jerry Lim, Sarah Martinez, and Russell Robinson. Lightly orchestrated accompaniment tracks capture the unique rhythm, tone, and timbre of the West Indies, Japan, South Africa, Greece, Spain, China, Ukraine, Scotland, Ghana, and Haiti. This informed publication includes the background, pronunciation, and translation for every song, designed to launch your exploration of world music. Recommended for grades three and up.
International Sound Stories and Folk Songs Around the World reflect Alfred Music’s commitment to providing educators and musicians with resources that inspire cultural exploration, celebrate diversity, and enrich music education experiences for learners of all ages.
Both publications are available for purchase on the Alfred Music website and through music retailers, providing educators, parents, and students easy access to these innovative learning resources.
