I Can Play: The Nutcracker

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

With a keyboard that plays the sound of a piano, enchanting illustrations from The Story Orchestra's The Nutcracker story book, and colour- and shape-coded instruction, I Can Play The Nutcracker shows young musicians how to play 8 famous classical tunes from the famous ballet.

From the The Story Orchestra series, a beautifully illustrated first piano sound book! Press the keys to learn 8 famous classical tunes from The Nutcracker as you follow the story.

While other books in the series play famous pieces of classical music, in this new Story Orchestra format, young readers can now play the tunes themselves!

Color and shape codes correspond to the 14 keys, so kids can learn easy 8-bar, one-finger melodies, so even the youngest child can learn to play music with this simple method. For best results, playing readers the original piece first is recommended so children can familiarise themselves with the pacing of the tune.

Each song includes an enchanting illustration and description of the part of the story that the music is telling, along with playing tips. All the favorite characters from The Nutcracker story are there to encourage young musicians as they play their first notes with the sound of a piano.

I Can Play: The NutcrackerGrandfather’s DanceClara’s DreamWaltz of the SnowflakesRussian DanceDance of the Reed FlutesWaltz of the FlowersDance of the Sugar Plum FairyFinaleReaders should press firmly on the pages to activate the keys, encouraging them to explore the possibilities of making music!

About the Author

Jessica Courtney Tickle​ is an illustrator who graduated from Kingston University in July 2014. Her absolute favorite thing to draw or paint is nature, finding a focus on foliage of any kind as well as children's stories about adventure and exploration. She also has a penchant for drawing theater from music makers to dancers and even singing animals. Jessica is most influenced by vintage picture books, travel posters, and folk art as well as numerous painters and printmakers.