A Song for All Seasons

Artists throughout the ages have received inspiration from natural phenomenon taking place in the world around them. Italian composer and violinist, Antonio Vivaldi, used the Earth's seasonal relationship to the Sun as inspiration for his masterpiece "The Four Seasons". "The Four Seasons" consists of four violin concertos, each inspired by a different season. Listen to an excerpt from each of the concertos. After the selection has played, decide which season Vivaldi is trying to portray. Look at the chart of the Earth's orbit around the Sun above and the position (1, 2, 3, or 4) which you believe is where the Earth would be in its orbit during that season you hear. The Earth's tilt remains at a constant 23.5 degrees, but you must decide (depending on the season) if the northern hemisphere is tilted toward or away from the Sun, if the southern hemisphere is tilted toward or away from the Sun, or if neither hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun. After you have listened to each selection and made your choices of the corresponding positions, check your ears against the ears of Vivaldi!

Hints

1. Listen for the chirping of birds and the fluttering of their wings to identify Spring.
2. Remember that thunderstorms frequently spoil outdoor activities on hot Summer days.
3. Festivals were a common occurrence in Europe after the Fall harvest.
4. Winter's bleak, icy weather can make you want to run for shelter.

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StarChild Authors: The StarChild Team
StarChild Graphics & Music: Acknowledgments
StarChild Project Leader: Dr. Laura A. Whitlock
Curator: J.D. Myers
Responsible NASA Official: Amber Straughn