Bluey composer reveals why he refuses to “dumb down” orchestral music for children

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While a Mahler symphony can be stunning, it’s unrealistic to expect a young child to stay focused through an 80-minute concert. However, children are often more capable of appreciating classical music than we think.

That’s why, when creating the music for Bluey – the incredibly popular show about Bluey, a playful blue heeler puppy, her family, and little sister Bingo – I include pieces inspired by composers like Vivaldi, Holst, Mozart, Bizet, Bach, and Ravel. I aim to use sophisticated music that complements the show’s smart and beautiful animation, and I hope it introduces a new generation to classical music.

Since debuting in 2018, Bluey has become incredibly popular, exceeding all expectations with both kids and adults. The show, created by Joe Brumm in Australia, has been a huge success not only there and in the UK, but worldwide. In fact, it was the most-streamed show in the US for two years running, in 2024 and 2025, and its music has become a sensation, racking up over a billion streams last summer.

We often treat classical music as something very serious and formal, but it wasn’t always meant to be experienced that way. A lot of Mozart, for example, is actually playful and lighthearted. In the show Bluey, we try to recapture that fun by incorporating classical music in unexpected ways – it’s like combining something fancy with something familiar and enjoyable.

Throughout the show, familiar classical pieces enhance key moments: Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” plays as Bluey learns to ride her bike, Holst’s “Jupiter” (also known as “I Vow to Thee, My Country”) accompanies Bingo as she learns to sleep alone, and Tchaikovsky’s “Waltz of the Flowers” from The Nutcracker features when Bluey and Bingo compete for the best bite of an ice cream cone.

Kids are surprisingly able to appreciate complicated music because they use their imaginations. However, when creating music for children, it’s important to avoid anything overly scary or jarring. While the music can be unusual or leave some questions unanswered, it should always have a clear intention and make some kind of sense.

Babies and toddlers aren’t limited by what they think music ‘should’ sound like – they find joy in all sorts of sounds. My daughter, who is 19 months old, will happily dance to the rhythm of our coffee maker, and she loves listening to classical music by Ravel just as much as she enjoys the Wiggles.

I didn’t have much experience writing music for children’s television when I got the job, but watching the first scene – a fun game of musical statues used to introduce the characters – instantly gave me the right idea.

The show really captures the heart of what it’s all about: the special bond created when kids and parents play together. From the beginning, I’ve envisioned using live musicians for the music, even when funds were tight. I often compose with specific musicians in mind, inspired by their unique playing styles. When I write for our violinist, Youka, I’m not just writing a violin part—I’m writing for Youka herself. I also love incorporating instruments with character and imperfections, because those flaws actually make the music feel more human.

Making the new orchestral album, Bluey: Up Here, was a massive project, bringing together over 100 musicians – including a 54-piece orchestra and a smaller chamber orchestra. While digital orchestras sound fantastic and offer incredible possibilities, nothing compares to the special feeling of music performed by real people.

It would be wonderful if more kids discovered classical music at a young age. Music that encourages attentive listening is incredibly beneficial for developing brains and can help them form lifelong listening habits, ultimately making their lives richer and more fulfilling.

Honestly, experiencing classical music can be incredibly moving – it’s truly changed my life. And seeing how popular a show like Bluey is, with its fantastic use of classical pieces, just proves that people love this art form and want more of it!

Read more: Bluey defeats Stranger Things and more as most-streamed TV series of 2025

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Authors

Joff Bush

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2026-04-06 19:43