from World Music Press

Welcome to Mussomeli
Children's Songs from an Italian Country Town

by Rosella DiLiberto,
M. Mus. Ed., West Chester Univ. (PA)
(with Bryan Burton)

ISBN 0-937203-90-4 Book/audio CD SET $20.95

Mussomeli is a small town in Sicily, and Rosella Diliberto's home. This delightful collection of Rosella's favorite children's songs and game songs introduces your students to the culture and traditions of Italy in a fun, hands-on way.

With clear affection for her home and its music, Rosella introduces you to "La Bella Lavanderina" (and its dance-like movements), the hilarity of keeping track of the verses in "La Macchina del Capo," "Ventiquattro Gatti Blu" (a game song about cats lined up in a row, suitable for the youngest children), and four other lively songs.

The set includes "The Armchair Adventurer"- special highlighted sections that offer links to relevant websites in Italy and Sicily, as well as websites and activities for building a friendship with the town of Mussomeli, which has its own website, and for follow-up to history, art, musical instruments, customs etc.

Suggested activities through the Friends and Flags international friendship project culminate in a friendship box to send to sister classes in Italy and/or other countries.

Whether you are Italian by birth, are working with children of Italian heritage or on a unit about Italy and Sicily, are trying to learn the language, or just love all things Italian, this heartfelt introduction to the children's songs of Mussomeli will enchant you.

The 8 1/2 x 11 book includes:

• Copy-OK scores for seven traditional songs, including lyrics in Italian
• Pronunciation Guide
• Game descriptions and step-by-step instructions
• Anecdotes and Cultural Background information for every song
• Historical and geographical information
• Copy-OK Map and time line
• Common words and phrases
• Tie-ins to the MENC Standards
• Web listings for cultural, historical, musical and friendship sites
• Numerous photos
• Family recipes

The Audio CD includes:

• Slow pronunciation of every song, and demo of a group and/or Rosella singing each, with accompaniment, where appropriate.