Sesame Street

Abstract

“Sesame Street,” which premiered in 1969 and is still producing new episodes 50 years later, is one of the most recognizable and beloved programs in the history of television. Its meticulouslyresearched curriculum and its memorable puppet characters have long been acknowledged to have been important factors both in “Sesame Street’s” popularity and in its contributions to American culture, but its music has been just as critical. As a musical comedy-variety show, “Sesame Street” has broadcast thousands of songs and released over one hundred albums, along with scores of singles and book-and-audio sets. Catchy melodies attracted preschoolers’ attention, repetitious song structures served as teaching tools, and professional performances rendered the children’s program entertaining for adults who controlled the dial. Meanwhile, releasing albums extended “Sesame Street’s” lessons beyond the broadcast hour and helped fund continued production of the show.