Reviews

School Library Journal, October 2000
This well-produced music appreciation video will find a home in many school and large public library collections . . .. This is a fine production that approaches an often serious subject in viewer-friendly terms.

Video Librarian, May/June 2000
Fiene and her collaborators perform and discuss an electric repertoire of seven pieces . . .. The material is performed with a good deal of polish and style, and the accompanying ideas about the music are presented in a straightforward manner.

Booklist, July 2000
Although aimed at young audiences, this stylish production will be welcome among older music aficionados we well.

Wisconsin Bookwatch, September 2000
Ears Wide Open is a superbly performed and flawlessly produced full color video . . . is a beautiful, classical, enthusiastically recommended music experience for viewers of all ages.

Testimonials

" 'Grandma, can we listen to Sarah?' asks Cayla, our four-year-old granddaughter, when she comes to visit. Cayla's fascination with "Ears Wide Open" began when she was almost three. She listens intently, asks questions and even dances. Other times, she snuggles up to grandma and listens quietly. Thanks to Sarah Fiene and her friends, Cayla is gaining an appreciation and enjoyment of' 'classical music'."

Marjorie Mader, Senior staff writer The Almanac, Menlo Park

"My daughter Maia first started watching the video when she was about 21 months old. She loved the video from the first viewing and would ask to view it several times per week. Now, one year later, she really seems to absorb much of what is occurring on the video. Either her father or I always watch with her. She can easily watch the entire video. I think she enjoys the music the most and watching the musicians perform."

Dr.Christina Lee, MD

"At my second viewing of' 'Ears Wide Open' I huddled with our four year old grandson Benjamin, and marveled with him. He first said that he is also going to play the cello and then he said he listens to music with his heart."

Katie Rathburn, Retired Junior High School teacher

"Jack and I enjoyed the video 'Ears Wide Open' very much. It is delightful and the music-making is tops. I like the choice of pieces very much also. It will be fun to show the video to my students, and grandchildren."

Caroline Orman, Music Teacher

"Bravo to Sarah Fiene and her video, 'Ears Wide Open'. I showed it to my 6 year old music class and they loved it! After Sarah's terrific explanation of how each musical variation can convey a different human emotion, they enjoyed guessing all the emotions that were expressed in the Beethoven Variations."

Lisa Spector, Teacher Make Music School

"Ms. Fiene’s enlightening film proved to me that "you’re never too old to learn." As a 34 year old who never learned to appreciate classical music, I was captivated by her thoughtful instruction and charming examples. I am now eager to learn more and recommend 'Ears Wide Open' for listeners of all ages."

Ann Butterfield, RN Goldman Research Center