Music of the Renaissance
This October, we are stepping back in time to explore one of the most fascinating eras in music history — the Renaissance (1400–1600).
The Renaissance was a time of great rebirth in art, science, and ideas — and of course, in music. Polyphony, madrigals, sacred and secular works, and fascinating instruments like the lute and recorder came to life during this period.
It’s the perfect era to explore with children, because it combines rich history with sounds that spark the imagination.
That’s why, in SQUILT LIVE!, we’re dedicating this entire month to the Renaissance. Our students will:
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Learn to hear the difference between sacred and secular music
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Discover composers like Palestrina and Josquin des Prez
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Explore Renaissance instruments and dances from castles and courts
- Connect with art and culture of the same period
What You Get In SQUILT LIVE! in October:
Our Renaissance Listening Calendar will guide your family through daily pieces from one of the most fascinating periods in music history. Children will experience sacred and secular music, voices and instruments, and the beauty of polyphony — all in just a few minutes a day.
This month’s two live lessons are especially exciting:
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🦗 El Grillo (The Cricket) by Josquin des Prez — a playful madrigal that will have everyone smiling.
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🎂 Happy 500th Birthday, Palestrina! — celebrating the great master of Renaissance sacred music with listening, learning, and fun.
✨ A whole month of Renaissance beauty is waiting for your family inside SQUILT LIVE!
🎥 New YouTube Video: Introduction to the Renaissance
To kick off this month of study, I’ve created a new YouTube video that introduces kids to the Renaissance. It’s short, simple, and perfect for families who want a quick overview before diving into our lessons.
This video is a great resource to share with friends or to use as a warm-up before each SQUILT LIVE! class. (And, we have many helpful videos on our YouTube channel - so subscribe now!)
Join Us in SQUILT LIVE!
If you’re not already a member, this is the perfect time to join! With your membership, you’ll enjoy:
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Access to this month’s Renaissance lessons (live and archived)
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A library of over 200 recorded lessons on composers, instruments, and music history
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Access to EVERY listening calendar we have created since 2018!
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Special monthly features and activities in our SQUILT LIVE! Plus community
Your children will develop the skill of Super Quiet UnInterrupted Listening Time (SQUILT) — learning to listen attentively, ask questions, and make connections. And - here's a big bonus: Parents need NO musical ability - simply press play and I'll do the rest!
🎶 Explore the Renaissance with us this month! Click here to learn more about SQUILT LIVE!
✨ The Renaissance reminds us that beauty, creativity, and curiosity can change the world. Let’s help our children experience that through music!