Music Study

How to do a Charlotte Mason style music study:

1. Choose a composer: one composer per 6-12 week term is the usual pace. Select from well known composers (e.g. Bach, Beethoven, Mozart) or explore lesser known ones (e.g. Dvorak, Saint Saens).

2. Schedule weekly listening sessions: Listen to one piece per week or 2 weeks, ideally 2-3 times per week. Sessions can be 10-20 minutes long. Start by saying the name of the composer and the piece. Play the piece in a quiet environment.

3. Thats it! Unless you want to add enrichment activities like reading the composer's biography or visiting classical kids online for audio dramas.

Listening & Streaming (Free or Cheap)

1. ClassicalArchives.com

Large collection; some content free, full access via subscription (~$8/month).

2. Naxos Music Library

Huge classical catalog. Free access often available via university/public libraries.

3. Musopen

Completely free classical music recordings and sheet music.

4. Internet Archive – Classical Music

Thousands of public domain recordings, including historical performances.

5. [YouTube & YouTube Music]

Search for artists like Berliner Philharmoniker, Academy of Ancient Music, or channels like "HALIDONMUSIC" and "Classical Music Only".

6. BBC Radio 3

Free streaming of high-quality classical music and broadcasts.

7. [Spotify / Apple Music / Amazon Music]

Free (ad-supported) tiers or student discounts; huge classical libraries.

Sheet Music (Free or Low-Cost)

1. IMSLP – Petrucci Music Library

Thousands of public domain scores, all free.

2. 8notes.com – Classical

Free classical sheet music, organized by composer and instrument.

3. Mutopia Project

Free sheet music from public domain, typeset beautifully using LilyPond.

Learning & Exploration

1. Open Music Theory

Free online textbook covering theory, analysis, and more.

2. Coursera – Classical Music Courses

Yale’s “Introduction to Classical Music” is excellent and free to audit.

3. Khan Academy – Music section

Short, accessible lessons on music history and theory.

4. TEDEd – Music & Classical

Engaging videos explaining classical concepts and composers.

Live Performances (Free or Discounted)

1. Local universities and conservatories

Student recitals and ensemble concerts are often free to the public.

2. Library Programs / Community Centers

Many public libraries host chamber concerts or music lectures.

3. Classical Connect

Streaming platform featuring lesser-known performers and live recordings.