Researchers have proved -- and disproved -- the so-called Mozart Effect, that listening to classical music can increase one's intelligence. Maybe it does, maybe it doesn't -- but it can't hurt! Why not give your baby the benefit of the doubt and put on some classical baby music? You can start listening even before baby is born, allowing your child to absorb the music while still in the womb. There are collections of classical baby music for mothers (and mothers-to-be) that are compilations of just Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's compositions. One popular and calming piece by Mozart is "Eine kleine Nachtmusik" Others include the classical works of Leopold Mozart, W. A. Mozart's father and teacher. His work appears in some of the compilations, including the Baby Genius "Brain Power" album.
Some collections of baby music embrace a wide array of classical composers. "Clair de Lune" is a beautiful, calming piece from the "50 Ultimate Essential Classical Songs for Your Baby," which also veers into the livelier "Star Wars Theme" and "Toreador Song" from Bizet's opera, "Carmen."
Even though it is called the Mozart Effect, the key idea is for an infant to listen to classical music. Beethoven, Bach, or Brahms or other composers are all acceptable baby music. "Beethoven for Babies" has a calming piano sonata by the composer (No.8 in C minor, Op.13 -"Pathetique"). "Lovely Baby Bach," which mixes sound effects and baby sounds along with the classical music, features Bach's "Sweet Minuet for Baby." "We Strolled" is a gentle piece by Brahms that baby will easily sleep to, found in the "Baby Needs Brahms" album. Is a Baroque Baby of interest? Handel's "Water Music" is a great addition to baby's listening list.
Baby Einstein puts out a wide variety of classical music (as well as other types of music) specifically for babies. For instance, "Baby Einstein: Baby Mozart" features some of the music (not the singing) from Mozart's opera "The Magic Flute," along with Mozart's symphonies. The Mozart Effect also has its own series of CDs ranging from the tiny tot to the adult. For example, Mozart's famous Symphony No. 25 in G minor, K. 183, is included in the "The Mozart Effect - Music for Babies - Playtime to Sleepytime."
While the classical baby music selection may seem overwhelming, try to think of the different times you may wish to listen to the classical. Many baby music publishers will group the selections depending on what you are trying to encourage baby to do. Interested in play or dance time classical music for baby? These pieces are more energetic, sure to keep baby moving. Trying to lull baby to sleep? Try some of these sleepy-time baby music offerings.
If you have favorite performers, you may want to investigate if they have produced a baby and mom classical CD. John Tesh, in his first volume of "Classical Music for Babies (and Their Moms)" performs some waltzes on the piano and includes a moving "Nocturne In E Flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2."
On some websites, you may be able to build your own collection. Sample the music and select just the MP3 of the classical music or performer you enjoy, and purchase each MP3 separately. Since you'll end up hearing this a lot, you should probably try out the baby music before you buy. It's definitely important to pick out something you like!