Welcome to the Symphony: A Musical Exploration of the Orchestra Using Beethoven's Symphony No. 5

From the author of Welcome to the Opera and Welcome to Jazz, this musical picture book introduces children ages 4 to 8 to the wonders of classical music with 19 interactive sound buttons.

Please take your seat. The concert is about to begin!

Discover what a symphony is, who Beethoven was, what happens when a conductor takes the podium and faces of the orchestra, and when you should and shouldn’t clap during a performance.

Welcome to the Symphony is a unique, interactive introduction to classical music, presenting one of the most famous symphonies ever written, by one the most famous composers who ever lived.

With 19 sound buttons, you’ll hear the different parts and voices of the music—the beginning of “Symphony No. 5”, the melody, the harmony, the sounds made by a violin, a viola, a cello, a double bass, and more. And you can even sing along!

Welcome to the Symphony is the first book in music educator Carolyn Sloan’s hugely successful Welcome to ... sound button picture book series that introduces classic musical genres to young readers, followed by Welcome to Jazz and Welcome to the Opera.

“An ideal way to introduce children to the magic of music—delightful, charming, wonderfully entertaining, beautifully illustrated.” —Gerard Schwarz, Music Director, the All-Star Orchestra

Carolyn Sloan is the author of Welcome to the Symphony and Welcome to Jazz. A music educator, songwriter, and musician, she writes music for theater, television, and children. She the founder of a new online education company, TeachMe TV.  She lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her family. 

James Williamson is an illustrator, designer, and artist whose work has appeared in The New York Times and numerous children's books. He lives with his wife in Brooklyn, New York.