The stage is set—it’s time for the big singing competition! One by one, singers take the spotlight: young and old, shy beginners and seasoned pros, quirky characters full of charm and joy. Who will win the jury’s heart?
A whimsical board book for little ones (ages 2–5), La gara di canto (The Singing Contest) is a playful celebration of music, diversity, and self-expression. Each character is brought to life through simple, flat illustrations with big-headed figures caught mid-song—paired with playful lines like “Frankie Frastuono canta convinto, però fuori tono.” (“Frankie Frastuono sings with passion, but out of tune.”) Each one features a funny rhyme—short, catchy, and full of rhythm.
The book has been published by Minibombo. A sequel, Il concerto (The Concert), is coming next year.
Astrid Alcante lets out a deafening scream. / Antonio Novocale sings with a nasal voice.
TAKEAWAYS:
- A Playful Celebration of Music: A whimsical board book for little ones that captures the excitement of a big singing competition, featuring 14 diverse contestants from shy beginners to seasoned pros.
- Catchy Rhymes and Rhythmic Fun: Short, humorous verses bring each quirky character to life, celebrating the joy of self-expression—even when the singing is a little out of tune.
- Vibrant and Charming Visuals: Bold, simple illustrations with expressive, big-headed figures create a high-energy world that invites children to join in the musical fun.
Canta tutte le scale, proprio così: / Do, Re, Mi, Fa, Sol, La, Si!
Signore e signori, che magnifico assolo, / è inconfondibile il grande Usignolo!
He does trills, vocal runs, and virtuosic solfeggi… / From the belly, from the chest—what perfect style! He sings all the scales, just like this: Do, Re, Mi, Fa, Sol, La, Si!
Ladies and gentlemen, what a magnificent solo—the great Usignolo is unmistakable!
Yannick Kestretto performs in falsetto. / Winnie Wapalma sings with a calm voice.
Shoshana Keklasse sings the low notes. / Frankie Frastuono sings with passion, but out of tune.