PBS Books is pleased to host a conversation with legendary Julie Andrews and award winning writer, Emma Walton Hamilton, authors of “The First Notes: The Story of Do Re Mi.” The book introduces readers to the remarkable story of the development of written music, and speaks to the beauty of music and the power of perseverance through the story of Guido d’Arezzo from one thousand years ago. For anyone who loves music, this book is the perfect children holiday gift celebrating curiosity, perseverance, and creativity. Join us for a fun evening with a mother-daughter creative team!
ABOUT THE BOOK
A stunning new picture book from beloved icon Julie Andrews and her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton, that introduces readers to the remarkable story of the development of written music, and speaks to the beauty of music and the power of perseverance. Featuring the illustrated lyrics to “Do-Re-Mi” and an author’s note about Julie Andrews’s connection to the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein song!
Centuries ago, a young Italian monk named Guido longed to find a way to write and teach music. Eventually, he created the musical scale, using the words Do-Re-Mi-Fa-Sol-La-Ti-Do…one syllable for each note. Though the other monks thought it was a waste of time, Guido’s music couldn’t be silenced. His discovery remains the foundation for learning music today, and inspired the famous song “Do-Re-Mi,” which Julie Andrews sang in the beloved movie The Sound of Music.
This richly illustrated picture book from beloved icon Julie Andrews and her daughter, bestselling author Emma Walton Hamilton, introduces readers to the remarkable story of Guido d’Arezzo’s development of musical notation. In addition to the lyrics of “Do-Re-Mi” illustrated in full color, the backmatter includes an author’s note, extensive historical notes, and a glossary.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Julie Andrews’s legendary career encompasses the Broadway and London stages, as well as multiple films, television shows, album releases, concert tours, directing assignments, and the world of children’s publishing. She was married to film director Blake Edwards for 41 years, and the couple have 5 children, 10 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.
Emma Walton Hamilton is an award-winning writer, producer and arts educator. Together with her mother, Julie Andrews, she has written over thirty books for children and young adults, including the New York Times bestselling Very Fairy Princess series. Emma is on the faculty of Stony Brook University’s MFA in Creative Writing.
