Chronological Study

One of the reasons I was attracted to the approach of The Well-Trained Mind is that it advises and guides parents to study everything in relation to a particular historical period.

I think it is a wonderful approach to making sense of the world: but have I done it?

No.

Part of the problem is the lack of materials available for elementary school-aged children. Ever see a biography of Roger Bacon written for third graders? I thought not. How about a discussion of Botticelli?

We are just a little over 1/2 way through SoTW 2--about 1400. This is the time when the ice and small streams in art and science begin to melt and start a torrent and cascade of activity.

I'm going to find a way to catch up.

First, though, to the most difficult of areas: Music.

I love the Ambelside Online curriculum for resources. This is what they recommend for a study of Medieval music:

Medieval Era Music (see Notes for this Term)
Listening selections for this term:
1. "A Feather on the Breath of God:
Sequences and Hymns by Abbess Hildegard of Bingen" featuring Emma Kirkby and
Gothic Voices; Hyperion label.

2. "Salve Regina - Gregorian Chant" by
Benedictine Monks of Saint-Maurice & Saint Maur of Clervaux; Philips label,
Silver Line Classics series.
3. "A Dance In the Garden of Mirth: Medieval
Instrumental Music" by the Dufay Collective; Chandos label.

Alternate
Option - "Miri It Is" by the Dufay Collective; Chandos label. [If you choose to
purchase only this CD, we do urge you to check your library for Gregorian chant
and Hildegard of Bingen selections to supplement your study.]

I also introduced the kids to a favourite of mine, the British rock/folk band Steeleye Span. My son particularly loved this Latin ditty:

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I'll have to post about Artists/Art Study and Scientists/Science another time.